African Responsible Gaming Network Launches to Coordinate Player Protection Across Fragmented Markets

The African Responsible Gaming Network launched on Monday to strengthen player protection and tackle gambling-related harm. The initiative unites responsible gaming organisations, researchers and treatment specialists from countries inside and outside Africa.

Lebo Seoheng, advocacy and communications manager at the South African Responsible Gaming Foundation, was appointed ARGN president. Seoheng highlighted that the launch occurs as Africa’s online gambling market expands, elevating the importance of stronger responsible gambling measures.

Fragmented Efforts Prompt Call for Common Principles

Founding member GamblePause Initiative Africa, established by Ladipo Abiose Akolade, drove the creation of ARGN to counter the fragmented nature of responsible gambling work across the continent. Akolade told iGaming Business that problem gambling is becoming a bigger issue and that most efforts remain confined to individual countries.

This underscores that while many organisations are doing great work, there has been limited opportunity to learn from each other, share research, or work together on common challenges. The ARGN fills a gap for a continent-wide network that connects organisations, encourages collaboration, and builds a stronger collective voice on player protection. It does not replace national organisations or regulators but supports and strengthens the work already being done by bringing people and organisations together.

The network promotes common principles rather than identical regulations, given each country’s distinct legal framework, culture and market development. Identified principles include protecting minors, effective self-exclusion options, responsible advertising and access to support for those affected by gambling harm.

Four Priorities Target Enforcement Over Paper-Based Rules

ARGN lists four strategic priorities: producing a pan-African gambling harm report on research, trends and evidence; establishing a directory of treatment, recovery and support services; developing policy recommendations and practical measures for regulators; and coordinating awareness and prevention initiatives for rollout across markets.

Akolade stressed the need for minimum player protection standards enforced beyond paper requirements. Desired measures encompass effective age and identity verification, meaningful self-exclusion systems, responsible gambling advertising standards, improved access to counselling and treatment, and action against illegal operators.

The launch follows the inaugural Africa Safer Gambling Week hosted by the African iGaming Alliance. Alliance CEO Peter Kesitilwe stated that the week should create a platform for ongoing cooperation, with responsible gambling practised year-round.

This effort surfaces the operational reality that collaboration must bridge diverse jurisdictions without overriding local rules.

Reporting: iGaming Business (iGB)

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