Insights from 22BET Kenya on the Future of Betting

30.07.2024

Joash Ajuoga, General Manager of 22BET Kenya, shared his insights on the dynamic betting industry in Kenya in an interview with iGaming Afrika. He also discussed the crucial relationship between operators and regulators.

Collaboration Between Operators and Regulators

He gave this interview at the Gaming Tech Summit Africa 2024. This event provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss the future of gaming regulation in Africa, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.

Ajuoga highlighted the significance of the summit for industry players, particularly those from outside Kenya.

“It’s a great opportunity for operators to come together, especially most operators from outside the borders of Kenya to be able to be here this time,” he remarked in the interview for iGaming Afrika.

This gathering underscores the need for operators to engage with regulators to foster a well-regulated gaming environment.

Need for Broader Engagement

Ajuoga expressed a desire for broader representation at such events, noting the absence of key sectors like banking and telecommunications.

He emphasized the importance of collective dialogue in setting industry standards: “It would have been good to have them here so that we take a step together.”

Anticipation of New Gaming Legislation

The upcoming gaming laws in Kenya were a focal point of Ajuoga’s discussion. He acknowledged the industry’s anticipation and the necessity to comply with the new regulations once enacted.

“We just wait for it to be passed first, but we have no choice. We’ll have to align with the law,” he stated, indicating a readiness to adapt.

While he recognized both potential benefits and drawbacks, he expressed hope that the new laws would be more advantageous overall.

Positive Relationship with Regulators

Ajuoga praised the current level of engagement between operators and regulators, commending the open-door policy and effective communication.

“I give a big thumbs up to our regulator here because the kind of communication we’ve had with them, the kind of leadership that they have brought in is amazing,” he noted.

Future of the Betting Industry

Looking ahead, Ajuoga called for more defined operational standards to ensure stability and confidence in the market.

He suggested the establishment of basic standards of operation to make the industry more comfortable and stable: “Just coming up with maybe basic standards of operation… to be more comfortable and stable in the market as we move forward.”