Rwanda has built a reputation for championing innovative initiatives, positioning itself as an ideal testing ground for new concepts. This pioneering spirit is a source of national pride. One industry ripe for such innovation is gaming and gambling. Though not new to Rwanda, this financially lucrative sector holds significant potential for the entire African continent. ALSO READ: The dark side of gambling: Expert talks safe betting and societal effects If Rwanda establishes itself as a leader in smart gaming regulations, the country could become a model for the continent, showcasing how to profit from the gaming industry in a way that benefits players, investors, and the government. By setting high standards, Rwanda could prevent issues like the abrupt closure of PremierBet, which likely resulted in substantial losses. ALSO READ: Government moves to enforce laws on gaming operations With solid standards and enforcement, we can create significant taxation to the value of billions of francs, with nearly double that going back to players, changing the lives of many people but also supporting good causes and education into reducing gambling addition and treatment. Industry experts can develop practical policies to that effect that are feasible to the realities on the group. While Rwanda has legal frameworks, including a law and a ministerial order, the last decade has seen significant changes in the gaming industry. Revisiting or revising the current framework may come in handy but it may as well be the time to consider establishing a dedicated regulatory agency. This agency would manage licensing, advertising, and child protection, ensuring comprehensive oversight and player protection. ALSO READ: Govt halts licensing of new betting firms Learning from other regulated countries like Malta, UK, and the USA, we can attract global brands that have all the systems and processes to protect players plus provide the best possible player experience with the right mix of money back to the player but also the taxation structures and corporate social responsibility to support good causes and provide education and reduce gambling harm. However, there is some ground work that may be required to modernize Rwanda's gaming industry, including conducting thorough research on the existing gambling landscape in Rwanda. This research should analyze the legal, social, and economic implications of introducing gambling regulations. Studying best practices and frameworks from other countries would provide valuable guidance. A task force comprising legal experts, policymakers, industry representatives, and stakeholders, may be established. Specific roles and responsibilities need to be assigned to each member of the task force. Thirdly, comprehensive gambling legislation needs to be drafted in collaboration with legal experts or work with the existing ones to revise them and fit them in current global standards. This legislation should cover licensing, regulation, taxation, enforcement, and social responsibility measures, ensuring alignment with Rwanda's legal framework and international standards. Engaging with various stakeholders including government agencies, operators, NGOs, and the public, is the next crucial step. Obtaining feedback on the draft legislation and incorporating relevant suggestions will ensure a well-rounded regulatory framework. Following this, the draft legislation should be presented to the relevant government authorities for review and approval. Any concerns or feedback raised during the approval process need to be addressed meticulously. Establishing a specialized regulatory body or commission to oversee the implementation and enforcement of the gambling regulations is vital. Defining the regulatory body's structure, powers, and resources will ensure effective management. A clear and strict licensing framework should be developed, outlining the criteria and process for obtaining gambling licenses. Implementing rigorous due diligence procedures will ensure that licensees meet the required standards. Monitoring systems to track gambling activities, revenue, and compliance with regulations must be set up. Sanctions and penalties for non-compliance or illegal gambling operations should be enforced to maintain integrity within the industry. Responsible gambling measures should be introduced to promote safe gambling practices and address problems in gambling. Collaboration with healthcare providers and counseling services will provide support to individuals affected by gambling addiction. Regular review and updating of gambling regulations is also necessary to keep pace with emerging issues. Monitoring the effectiveness of the regulations and making adjustments as needed will ensure the framework remains relevant and effective. Building a regulatory framework will take time, but to expedite the process, appointing a government Tzar with ultimate responsibility for bringing various government departments into the project is crucial. Existing departments may lack the knowledge and accountability for the roles they will need to support, such as licensing, taxation, regulation and enforcement, player safety interface, and industry-government relations. Depending on the government's risk appetite and the availability of player data, Rwanda can use successful models from other countries as templates. A phased approach to regulation and licensing, allowing processes to become integrated into various departments, may be necessary. To remove bad actors from the market, urgent new legislation – or revision of existing ones – should be enacted in the short term. This will help chase bad actors out of Rwanda. In the medium term, a detailed regulatory framework and the Rwanda Gambling Stop (RGS) database system should be developed, allowing players to self-exclude from all operators. High-speed delivery and focus are required to tackle illicit financial activities and reduce risks from grey market actors and bad practices. Collaboration with local government entities is essential to ensure greater awareness and understanding of gambling-related harm. A strong established gaming industry would come with a strong awareness campaign which may be mandatory to all operators. Safe gambling revolves around enjoying the activity responsibly while understanding and managing the associated risks. Indeed, it is essential to have fun and treat gambling as a form of entertainment rather than a means to make money. Knowing your risks is crucial; recognize that the odds are often not in your favour, and losing is part of the game. Setting a fixed gambling budget and sticking to it helps prevent financial strain. It's equally important to know when to stop, especially if you reach your budget limit or are no longer enjoying the activity. Protecting yourself includes understanding the rules of the games you play and being aware of signs of problem gambling. Diversifying your interests and engaging in various hobbies ensures that gambling remains a small part of your life, preventing it from becoming an unhealthy obsession. Conversely, there are several practices to avoid to maintain safe gambling habits. Never gamble when you don't understand the rules, as this increases the risk of unnecessary losses and reduces enjoyment. Avoid gambling when feeling down or low, as emotional states can cloud judgment and lead to impulsive decisions. Betting money you cannot afford to lose can result in severe financial and personal consequences. Mixing gambling with alcohol is a dangerous combination that impairs decision-making abilities. Lastly, do not attempt to chase or cover your losses. This often leads to a cycle of increasing bets and deeper losses, which can spiral out of control. By adhering to these principles, you can enjoy gambling safely and responsibly.
