Sports
How iGaming Can Thrive in Africa’s Emerging Markets
As Africa’s digital landscape continues to evolve, the iGaming sector stands at the forefront of this transformation, poised to tap into the continent’s untapped regions.
However, navigating this complex terrain requires a keen understanding of local markets, strategic partnerships, and adaptable technological solutions.
Norman Ondego, Lead Consultant at Solpro Consulting and Business Development and Partnership Manager at Convex Technologies shares his expertise on how to successfully expand iGaming into these emerging regions with SportsBoom.
Identifying Untapped Regions: A Strategic Approach
For Norman Ondego, the journey of identifying untapped regions with potential for iGaming expansion begins with a clear understanding of the strategic direction and market demand. “Is there a demand for the service or product? Or is it a case of demand meeting a solution or a solution creating the demand?” he asks. This foundational question helps determine the viability of entering a new market.
Beyond demand, Norman emphasizes the importance of evaluating the supporting ecosystem. “In the iGaming industry, key factors to consider include payment infrastructure, connectivity, and regulatory frameworks. These elements will ultimately dictate the type of solution you offer,” he explains. Additionally, factors such as culture, stability, economic empowerment, accessibility, saturation, and competitive landscape play crucial roles in the decision-making process.
Digital Transformation in Regions with Limited ICT Infrastructure
Digital transformation in regions with limited ICT infrastructure presents both challenges and opportunities. Norman’s approach varies depending on the market entry strategy. “If you’re a new player, you have the advantage of trying something new and potentially gaining a first-mover advantage,” he says. This approach allows for the introduction of solutions that are both easy to use and affordable, providing flexibility to adapt as the market evolves.
For established players entering as alternatives, Norman acknowledges the resistance to change that often accompanies new solutions.
“Your solution must not represent a significant shift from what users are accustomed to. Instead, it should gradually wean them away through convenience, efficiency, and where possible, competitive pricing,” he advises betting news site SportsBoom.com. An example of this strategy is transitioning customers from retail gaming shops to online platforms by initially offering online stations within the retail environment.
The Role of Local Partnerships
Local partnerships are critical when entering new and untapped regions. “Local players hold the key currency of trust and time, which are invaluable to new entrants,” Norman asserts. These partnerships help navigate the cultural and regulatory nuances of the market, providing insights that desktop research cannot reveal. “Local partners understand market dynamics, payment preferences, and user behaviours, making the journey significantly shorter and more successful,” he adds.
Navigating Regulatory Complexities
Regulatory complexities in untapped regions can pose significant challenges, especially in markets where iGaming is still in its early stages. Norman emphasizes the importance of prior research and collaboration with local stakeholders.
“The easiest way to navigate regulation and legal frameworks is not to reinvent the wheel unless you’re introducing a breakthrough innovation,” he advises. Instead, aligning with existing regulations and working closely with local experts can prevent potential pitfalls.
Leveraging Mobile Technology for iGaming Growth
In underdeveloped regions, mobile technology serves as a gateway to online services, including iGaming. Norman highlights the versatility of mobile devices in these markets: “The mobile phone is your access device, your news screen, your payment platform, your communication, and your entertainment unit. It’s in almost every hand,” he notes. By offering mobile-accessible solutions, companies can effectively address advertising, payment processing, and distribution challenges in these regions.
Enhancing Digital Literacy for iGaming Adoption
Digital literacy is essential for the widespread adoption of iGaming, yet it remains a challenge in many untapped regions. Norman points out that iGaming’s potential is often hindered by its perception as a vice. “If regulators and governments recognized the industry’s potential, they would involve stakeholders in programs that promote digital literacy,” he argues. He believes that integrating iGaming into digital literacy initiatives could create a symbiotic relationship where people pay to play and learn simultaneously.
Ensuring that infrastructure and solutions are both sustainable and scalable is also crucial as markets grow. Norman advocates for a modular and flexible approach: “Being modular and flexible in your approach is key. Entry into any region must follow strategic planning, including the dimensioning of the solution,” he advises. Localization, coupled with an understanding of global standards and regulatory frameworks, is essential for creating robust solutions that can scale with market growth.
Aligning Customer Experience with Local Expectations
When entering new markets, aligning the customer experience with local expectations is vital. Norman emphasizes the importance of research and data-driven decision-making, as well as the role of local partnerships. “One-size-fits-all solutions may be cheap to deploy, but they don’t always work,” he warns. Instead, he advocates for modular solutions that allow for customization without compromising the overall integrity of the product.
Looking ahead, Norman sees vast potential in Africa’s untapped regions, not just in terms of market penetration, but in the development of localized, workable solutions. “A lot of capital flight has occurred because solutions have not been localized,” he observes. By focusing on creating solutions tailored to the unique needs of each region, Norman believes that the iGaming sector can unlock significant opportunities across the continent.
In conclusion, Norman Ondego’s insights provide a roadmap for successfully navigating the complexities of expanding iGaming into untapped regions. From strategic market entry and local partnerships to leveraging mobile technology and enhancing digital literacy, his approach underscores the importance of understanding and adapting to the unique dynamics of each market. As Africa’s digital landscape continues to evolve, these strategies will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of the iGaming sector across the continent.
By Adedapo Adesanya
Nigerian billionaire industrialist and philanthropist, Mr Abdul Samad Rabiu, has announced a generous financial reward for the Super Eagles following their impressive 2–0 victory over Algeria, which secured Nigeria a spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The win has reignited national enthusiasm, with the team widely praised for their composure, teamwork, and determination on the continental stage.
In a statement celebrating the victory, Mr Rabiu congratulated the players for lifting the spirit of the nation and reaffirmed his confidence in their ability to go further in the competition.
To motivate the squad ahead of the semi-finals, he pledged $500,000 to the players upon winning the semi-final match against Morocco, with an additional $50,000 for every goal scored.
If the Super Eagles advances to the final and clinch the AFCON title, Mr Rabiu has pledged a further $1 million, plus $100,000 for each goal scored in the final.
As the Nigerian team prepare for the semi-finals, the backing from Mr Rabiu adds to the growing sense of belief that the team can go all the way and restore AFCON glory to Nigeria, carrying the hopes of millions of fans across the country and the diaspora.
Nigeria produced a statement win against the Desert Foxes of Algeria on Saturday to power their way to the last four. The team faces the host nation, Morocco, next Wednesday.
Nigeria produced a stellar first half performance but failed to convert plenty of chances including Algerian defender forced a goal-line clearance in the 29th minute to deny Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey.
Nigerian attacker Akor Adams blasted another clear chance over the bar in the 37th minute of play.
However, Nigeria started the second half on a stronger foot with top striker Victor Osimhen producing a trademark leap in the to head the first goal past goalkeeper Lucas Zidane following a cross from Bruno Onyemaechi in the 47th minute.
The Nigerian gunman laid off the second goal for his counterpart Akor Adams to round the Algeria goalkeeper and slot home the second 10 minutes later, following a fine pass from Alex Iwobi.
Nigeria could have scored more, with Adams missing a late chance, but until the final whistle, it was a dominant performance from the Super Eagles.
Senegal defeated Mali by a lone goal on Friday and awaits the winner of the match between Egypt and Ivory Coast currently ongoing at the time of filing this report. Morocco put two past Cameroon yesterday.
Club football continues across Europe this weekend with the FA Cup third round bringing Premier League sides into action, alongside a pivotal round of fixtures in Serie A. Fans can follow every key moment live on SuperSport across DStv and GOtv.
FA Cup: Premier League Sides Enter the Competition
The FA Cup third round marks the entry point for Premier League clubs, with several top-flight sides facing lower-league opposition and a handful of all-Premier League encounters also on the schedule.
Manchester City open their campaign at home to Exeter City on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. City were held to a draw by Brighton in their last league outing and will look to secure a place in the fourth round against League One opposition.
Later on Saturday, Tottenham Hotspur host Aston Villa at 6:45 p.m. Spurs arrive after a defeat at Bournemouth, while Villa were held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace. Both sides will be aiming for a positive start to their FA Cup runs.
Chelsea travel to face Charlton Athletic at 9:00 p.m. The match marks the beginning of a new managerial era for Chelsea, who were recently beaten by Fulham and will be looking to regain momentum against Championship opposition.
On Sunday, Arsenal travel to Fratton Park to face Portsmouth at 3:00 p.m. The Premier League leaders played out a draw with Liverpool in their most recent match and are expected to rotate their squad as they begin their FA Cup campaign.
Manchester United host Brighton at Old Trafford at 5:30 p.m. United drew away at Burnley last time out, while Brighton also come into the tie following a league draw against Manchester City.
The round concludes on Monday night as Liverpool welcome Barnsley to Anfield at 8:45 p.m. Liverpool remain winless in 2026 following a draw with Arsenal and will look to progress against League One opposition.
All FA Cup fixtures air live on SS Premier League (GOtv Ch. 65, DStv Ch. 203).
Serie A: Inter vs Napoli Headlines Crucial Round
Serie A returns with a full slate of fixtures, headlined by a major top-of-the-table clash at the San Siro as Inter Milan host Napoli.
Roma begin the weekend at home to Sassuolo on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. Roma secured a win away at Lecce in their last match and will look to build consistency as they push toward the top four. Sassuolo arrive after a heavy defeat to Juventus.
Atalanta host Torino later on Saturday at 8:45 p.m. Atalanta were convincing winners away at Bologna last time out, while Torino suffered a home defeat to Udinese.
On Sunday at 3:00 p.m., AC Milan travel to face Fiorentina. Milan were held to a draw by Genoa in their previous fixture, while Fiorentina earned a point away at Lazio.
The weekend’s standout Serie A fixture takes place on Sunday night at 8:45 p.m. as leaders Inter Milan face Napoli. Inter come into the match following a win at Parma, while Napoli were held to a draw by Verona in midweek.
Juventus round off the Serie A action on Monday at 8:45 p.m. when they host Cremonese. Juventus recorded a comfortable away win against Sassuolo last time out, while Cremonese drew with Cagliari.
All Serie A matches will be broadcast live on SS Africa 2 (GOtv Ch. 64, DStv Ch. 208).
Weekend Highlights
FA Cup
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Manchester City vs Exeter City — Sat, 4:00 p.m.
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Tottenham Hotspur vs Aston Villa — Sat, 6:45 p.m.
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Charlton Athletic vs Chelsea — Sat, 9:00 p.m.
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Portsmouth vs Arsenal — Sun, 3:00 p.m.
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Manchester United vs Brighton — Sun, 5:30 p.m.
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Liverpool vs Barnsley — Mon, 8:45 p.m.
Serie A
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Roma vs Sassuolo — Sat, 6:00 p.m.
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Atalanta vs Torino — Sat, 8:45 p.m.
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Fiorentina vs AC Milan — Sun, 3:00 p.m.
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Inter Milan vs Napoli — Sun, 8:45 p.m.
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Juventus vs Cremonese — Mon, 8:45 p.m.
Where to Watch
All FA Cup matches air live on SS Premier League (DStv Channel 203, GOtv Channel 65). Serie A fixtures are broadcast on SS Africa 2 (DStv Channel 208, GOtv Channel 64). Fans can also stream every match live via the DStv Stream and GOtv Stream apps
Ang Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy ay nananatiling mahalagang bahagi ng tradisyunal na paglalaro sa Pilipinas, at ngayon ay aktibong sinusuportahan ng GameZone gamit ang modernong digital platforms. Ang mga larong ito ay sumasalamin sa matagal nang mga tradisyon na naipapasa sa pamamagitan ng pamilya, mga pagtitipon, at pang-araw-araw na social interactions. Ang Tongits, halimbawa, ay isang reference point para sa maraming manlalarong nag-eexplore ng classic card formats online. Ang mga bagong presentation ng mga larong ito ngayon ay nagbibigay-daan para maisama ang mga tradisyon sa accessible na digital environments. GameZone bridges offline memories to modern accessibility habang pinapanatili ang respeto sa cultural roots ng larong baraha. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit nananatiling relevant ang Filipino card games sa lumalagong online gaming communities.
Kultural na Ugat ng Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy
Ang mga larong baraha ng mga Pilipino ay hindi nakabatay sa official rules o ni isang nakasulat na patnubay. Ito ay informal na naipasa sa bawat henerasyon sa pamamagitan ng paglalarong magkasama ng mga pamilya sa tuwing may selebrasyon o simpleng pagtitipon sa bahay. Mga laro tulad ng Tongits at Pusoy ay nagdadala ng social aspects na bumubuo ng koneksyon sa pagitan ng mga manlalaro. Bukod sa kasiyahan, tinuturuan din ng mga larong ito ang pagiging pasensiyoso at ang pagpapahalaga sa bonding kaysa sa pagiging mabilis o competitive.
Mayroong simbolikong halaga ang mga larong baraha sa ating kultura—madali itong laruin kaya’t nagiging simbolo ito ng leisure o kasiyahan para sa maraming Pilipino. May malalim din itong emosyonal na koneksyon dahil hindi lang ito laro ng kalaban-kalaban kundi ng pagkakaintindihan at suporta. Card games represent familiarity and comfort, not just competition. Dahil sa cultural na pinagmulan nito, nananatili pa rin itong popular kahit sa modernong panahon. Ang GameZone ay nagbibigay-pugay sa mga kultural na halaga ng mga larong ito sa pamamagitan ng simplified presentations na nananatiling totoo sa tradisyon.
GameZone: Digital na Tahanan ng Tradisyunal na Larong Baraha
Ang GameZone ay nag-aalok ng maayos na platform para sa mga Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy, na pinapanatili ang tradisyunal na anyo ng mga ito. Ang kanilang user-friendly interface ay tumutulong sa mga manlalaro upang madaling makilala ang pamilyar na layouts. Dahil mas schedule-friendly na ang digital playing, maraming manlalaro ang pinipiling lumipat sa online format. GameZone replicates the slow playing pace of traditional games habang nagbibigay ng mas stable na system para sa mas maayos na karanasan.
Bukod dito, ang platform ay naiwasan ang mga distracting features na maaaring makasira sa natural na flow ng laro. Ang simpleng GameZone PH login systems ay pinapanatili ang consistent performance, na nagbibigay sa manlalaro ng tiwala habang bumabalik sila para maglaro nang paulit-ulit. Ang ganitong klaseng consistency mula sa GameZone ay isang pangunahing dahilan kung bakit ang Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy ay napapanatili ang kaginhawahan ng mga orihinal nitong features kahit sa digital settings.
Social Interaction sa Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy Online
Ang Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy ay nakasentro sa social aspect, kaya’t hindi lamang ito larong pang-solo. Sa pamamagitan ng GameZone, mas naipapalaganap ang shared experiences sa paglalaro. Players converse more about their shared interaction rather than competition. Ang bonding moments na ito ay nagpapanatili ng magandang takbo ng laro kahit paulit-ulit na ina-access ng mga manlalaro.
Ang dynamics ng digital card games ng GameZone ay iniayon sa tradisyunal na feel ng mga card games sa mga bahay ng mga Pilipino. Kahit nawala na ang pisikal na paglalaro para sa iba, ang digital version ay nagbabalik ng koneksyon ng mga manlalaro sa laro. Dahil dito, ang Larong Baraha ng mga Pinoy ay nagiging mas accessible sa mas maraming tao habang nananatili ang social significance nito.
Digital Tools: Preservation ng Filipino Card Game Traditions
May mahalagang papel ang GameZone sa pangangalaga at pagpapalaganap ng mga tradisyunal na larong baraha. Kahit hindi na kayang maglaro ng pisikal ng iba, naibabalik nila ang parehong mga karanasan online. Ang mga digital tools na ito ay hindi lang naglilingkod bilang entertainment, kundi paraan din upang maipasa ang tradisyong ito sa susunod na henerasyon.
Para sa mga bagong henerasyon, nagbibigay-daan ang digital version upang ma-expose sila sa tradisyon. Samantalang para sa mga matatanda, hindi nila nararamdaman ang pressured adjustment sa bagong sistema. Ang inobatibong paraan ng GameZone ay nagsisiguro na ang kultura ng Filipino card games ay patuloy na magiging buháy.
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