14 Jul 2026 Simon Briggs
Sports Betting West Africa+ Summit and Gaming Event Francophone Africa to Run Concurrently in 2026
West Africa is rapidly establishing itself as one of Africa's most dynamic gaming markets. With regulatory reform, technological innovation and investment creating new opportunities across both Anglophone and Francophone markets, the region has become a focal point for industry growth.
As the industry continues to evolve, the 11th Annual Sports Betting West Africa+ (SBWA+) Summit 2026 and the 2nd Annual Gaming Event Francophone Africa (GEFA) 2026 will bring together regulators, operators, legal experts, affiliates, suppliers, technology providers and payment specialists in Dakar, Senegal, from 14 – 16 October. Taking place concurrently for the first time, the two events will create a unique platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and business development across Africa's gaming industry.
SBWA+ Welcoming & Eventus Awards Evening
The summit opens on 14 October with the SBWA+ Welcoming & Eventus Awards Evening. The evening provides the ideal setting to reconnect with industry peers, establish new business relationships and celebrate the organisations and individuals making a significant contribution across the industry before the conference programme begins.
SBWA+ Eventus Awards 2026
The SBWA+ Eventus Awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership across Africa's gaming industry. Nominations are now open in the following categories:
Supplier of the Year Award
Recognising a supplier that has consistently delivered outstanding products, services and value to the gaming industry.
Innovation of the Year Award
Celebrating a groundbreaking innovation that has made a measurable impact on the industry over the past year.
Operator of the Year Award
Honouring an operator that has demonstrated excellence in performance, innovation and customer experience.
Leader in Virtual Sports Award
Presented to the organisation leading the way in virtual sports through innovation and exceptional delivery.
Leader in Online Casino Award
Recognising an online casino platform that has excelled in player engagement, innovation and sustained growth.
Leader in Responsible Gambling Award
Acknowledging a company that has demonstrated a strong commitment to responsible gambling initiatives and player protection.
Leader in Sports Betting Award
Celebrating a sports betting operator that continues to set the benchmark for excellence within the sector.
Outstanding Industry Influencer Award
Recognising an individual whose leadership, expertise and contributions have positively influenced the African gaming industry.
Outstanding Consultant Award
Honouring a consultant who has delivered exceptional expertise, strategic guidance and value to clients across the industry.
Outstanding Speaker Award
Recognising the most engaging and impactful speaker at the SBWA+ Summit 2026. The award will be presented once all conference discussions have concluded, ensuring every speaker has had the opportunity to participate in the programme.
Celebrating Women in Gaming Awards
Innovation Queen of West Africa
Honouring a woman whose innovative thinking has helped drive progress and diversity within West Africa's gaming industry.
West Africa's Rising Star in Leadership
Recognising an emerging female leader who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and made a meaningful impact within the industry.
Awards Timeline
- Nomination Portal Closes:2 October 2026, 17:00 SAT
- Shortlist Announced:7 October 2026
- SBWA+ Eventus Awards Ceremony:14 October 2026
Industry professionals are encouraged to submit nominations and recognise the companies and individuals raising the standard of gaming across Africa.
Be Part of the Conversation
Secure a seat today and join Africa's gaming leaders in Dakar for three days of expert insights, meaningful networking and business opportunities at the SBWA+ Summit 2026 and GEFA 2026.
Register Now: https://www.sportsbettingevents.com/sbwa
Sponsorship and Exhibition Opportunities
With registrations continuing to grow, a limited number of sponsorship and exhibition opportunities remain available.
For more information on sponsorship and exhibition opportunities, contact:
Lou-Mari Burnett
Chief Operating Officer
Eventus International
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