Insights on regulatory pathways and safer business practices at SiGMA Africa 2025

The SiGMA Africa 2025 Summit in Sun Exhibits – GrandWest Complex, South Africa, opened with two crucial panels tackling the evolving regulatory frameworks and responsible business practices in the region. On the morning of Day 1, leading industry experts examined the regulatory complexities of African markets and the pressing need for safer business frameworks.

Moderated by Conor O’Donovan, Africa Partner at Tekkorp Capital, the first panel, ‘Regulatory Roulette: Navigating Africa’s iGaming Landscape,’ featured insights from Garron Whitesman, Founding Partner at Whitesmans Attorneys; Wayne Lurie, Director at Lurie Inc; and Jarryd Jensen, Regional Director – Southern Africa at Sumsub. The discussion provided clarity on licensing, financial compliance, and strategies for long-term business sustainability.

The second panel, ‘Africa’s New Era of Safer Business Practices,’ led by Garron Whitesman, brought together Robin Bennett, Head of Department – Regulatory Compliance at the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board; Mathabo Sekhonyana, CMO at Bettabets; and Yvonne Skepu, Executive Manager – Legal Services at Mpumalanga Economic Regulator. Together, they addressed the need for comprehensive regulatory oversight, risk mitigation, and corporate responsibility.

Key takeaways from the panels

Regulatory Roulette: Navigating Africa’s iGaming Landscape:

• Regulatory Alignment is Key – Experts stressed the need for harmonising compliance structures across different African jurisdictions to improve market accessibility and long-term business viability.
• Financial Compliance & Sustainability – Businesses must evaluate financial stability when selecting service providers to prevent disruptions and ensure sustained operational efficiency.
• Trust and Reliable Transactions – “KYC isn’t just about ticking a regulatory box, it’s the foundation of trust in iGaming,” stated Jarryd Jensen, Regional Director – Southern Africa at Sumsub.

Africa’s New Era of Safer Business Practices:

• Consumer Protection and Transparency – Stronger regulatory frameworks should prioritise safer business operations, ensuring consumer interests are safeguarded.
• Proactive Compliance Measures – Industry leaders emphasised that businesses must integrate internal controls and compliance tools to stay ahead of regulatory changes.
• Sustainability Through Responsible Practices – The panel underscored the importance of fostering an ethical business culture that balances growth with responsible operational frameworks. “If we don’t take action now, problem gambling will become a real issue. Regulation and player education are key to responsible gaming,” stated Robin Bennett, Head of Department – Regulatory Compliance at the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board.

With SiGMA Africa 2025 driving discussions on regulatory evolution, compliance, and sustainable business growth, attendees are encouraged to explore further panels and discussions scheduled for Day 1 and Day 2. The event continues to provide a platform for strategic conversations that will shape Africa’s business landscape in the years to come.