West Africa’s Gaming Industry Booming
West Africa is emerging as a significant hub for the gaming industry, spurred by regulatory changes and advancements in technology. As both Anglophone and Francophone regions experience growth, the industry is set for increased collaboration. The upcoming Sports Betting West Africa+ (SBWA+) Summit and the Gaming Event Francophone Africa (GEFA) will be hosted together for the first time in Dakar, Senegal, from October 14 to 16, 2026, presenting a valuable opportunity for stakeholders to engage and innovate.
Networking and Recognition at SBWA+ 2026
The event will commence with the SBWA+ Welcoming & Eventus Awards Evening, creating an ideal atmosphere for networking and celebrating industry achievements. The SBWA+ Eventus Awards will honor outstanding contributions and innovations, with categories such as Supplier of the Year, Innovation of the Year, and more. These accolades aim to acknowledge excellence and inspire future advancements across Africa’s gaming landscape.
Celebrating Women and Leadership in Gaming
In a special focus on diversity, the event introduces awards to celebrate women in gaming, such as the Innovation Queen of West Africa and Rising Star in Leadership. These awards highlight the pivotal role women play in driving innovation and growth within the sector, ensuring the industry’s progress remains inclusive and diverse.
Participation and Nominations
Industry participants are encouraged to submit nominations by October 2, 2026, to recognize top performers in gaming. The shortlisted nominees will be announced on October 7, leading up to the highly anticipated awards ceremony. These acknowledgments serve to motivate continuous improvement and excellence in the gaming industry across Africa.
Opportunities for Engagement
The SBWA+ 2026 and GEFA 2026 provide unmatched opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development. Participants are urged to register early to secure their place at this key industry event. Limited sponsorship and exhibition spaces offer businesses a unique chance to showcase their offerings to a vibrant market.
For further sponsorship details, contact Lou-Mari Burnett, Chief Operating Officer at Eventus International, via email: loumari@eventus-international.com.
Conclusion
The concurrent hosting of SBWA+ and GEFA in 2026 will mark a significant moment for Africa’s gaming sector, fostering a collaborative environment that promises to elevate industry standards. Stakeholders are encouraged to seize this opportunity to connect, learn, and lead in one of Africa’s most promising markets.
The event will also address key topics such as how the gaming sector is experiencing digital growth and player engagement in the context of African player engagement. Additionally, the impact of regulations and diverse strategies will be examined in depth, akin to discussions about iGaming regulation in Brazil.