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Editor ’ s Letter
The rise of digital
Welcome to the inaugural iGB Africa report released to coincide with Clarion Gaming ’ s ICE Africa Digital event taking place on 27-29 October 2020 .
While Africa is on track to account for just 1 % of global GGR in 2020 , according to figures provided for this report by our principal data partner , H2 Gambling Capital , rapid population growth , strong GDP growth in sub-Saharan countries and an emerging middle class are underpinning a growth forecast well above the global rate to 2025 .
This report focuses on the growth of the digital channel , which already drives 23 % of betting GGR across Africa , with mobile accounting for more than half that figure .
With majority unbanked populations , mobile money has provided an entry point for online betting in a gaming landscape historically dominated by retail betting and land-based casinos .
The fragmented nature of payment and licensing systems across Africa has also made it difficult for international operators to carve material share in markets already dominated by ‘ local hero ’ brands .
While the regulatory outlook remains mixed – in September the regulator of the largest market of South Africa reiterated that sports betting remains the only permitted product online – there are now up to a dozen regulated online markets .
This report combines on-the-ground intelligence with the latest numbers from the sector ’ s leading gambling data business to provide a snapshot of online betting and gaming markets in transition .
We hope you find it valuable and look forward to seeing you at ICE Africa Digital .
“ This report focuses on the growth of the digital channel , which already drives 23 % of betting GGR across Africa , with mobile accounting for more than half that figure ”
Stephen Carter Editorial director , iGB