The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced the suspension of Baron Sports Gaming Ltd, known as Forzza, ordering the firm to halt all operations in Rwanda immediately. This decision, revealed on Thursday, comes after the company was found to be offering casino-style games without proper licensing.
Under the terms of the suspension, Forzza must remove all advertising and promotional content associated with its operations. The RDB confirmed to iGB that Forzza's current license allows only sports betting.
The regulator has cautioned Forzza about potential further enforcement actions if it continues to operate during the suspension. In a response shared with The New Times, a local newspaper, Forzza expressed surprise at the suspension, stating that it had not received any detailed explanation from the RDB regarding the decision.
Rwanda's gambling market is also experiencing changes as the RDB looks to welcome international operators. Serge Nyombayire, the RDB's Chief Operating Officer, mentioned last week that there are currently 15 licensed operators in the country's gambling sector, including a national lottery operator. With Forzza’s license revocation, the total now stands at 14.
Earlier this month, Rwanda permitted three new operators to enter the market, including ForteBet and Super Group's Betway brand, which received licenses for both online sports betting and casino operations. ElephantBet was granted permission solely for online sports betting.
Nyombayire underscored the importance of attracting quality operators like Betway to Rwanda’s emerging market, stating, “Companies like Betway have proven their experience elsewhere, and their way of doing business has been seen as the proper way in so many aspects.” He indicated that such partnerships could assist Rwanda in updating its gambling legislation by sharing best practices and data for improvement.
