In two weeks, Dakar, Senegal, will host the 11th annual Sports Betting West Africa+ Summit 2026 and the 2nd annual Gaming Event Francophone Africa from October 14 to 16 at the King Fahd Palace Hôtel. This year’s events will prioritize operational execution in the rapidly changing regional markets rather than just focusing on market potential. Over three days, industry professionals will tackle the practical challenges of growth across Africa, including harmonised licensing frameworks, localised payment integration, and techniques for player retention. The agenda will feature expert-led panels, keynote speeches, and opportunities for commercial deal-making.
On the evening of October 14, the SBWA+ Eventus Awards ceremony will celebrate individuals and organizations excelling in excellence, compliance, and innovation within Africa's gaming sector. Award categories for 2026 include:
– **SBWA+ Supplier of the Year Award 2026**: Recognizes the top B2B supplier based on commercial success and innovation.
– **SBWA+ Innovation of the Year Award 2026**: Acknowledges a standout technological concept that has made a significant impact, evaluated on performance and originality.
– **SBWA+ Operator of the Year Award 2026**: Honors the leading consumer-facing operator, focusing on growth and user experience.
– **SBWA+ Leader in Virtual Sports Award 2026**: Recognizes the most innovative virtual sports gaming experience.
– **SBWA+ Leader in Online Casino Award 2026**: Pays tribute to the leading online casino platform for innovation and user engagement.
– **SBWA+ Leader in Responsible Gambling Award 2026**: Recognizes outstanding commitment to responsible gambling practices.
– **SBWA+ Leader in Sports Betting Award 2026**: Commends excellence in sports betting technology and service delivery.
– **SBWA+ Outstanding Industry Influencer Award 2026**: Acknowledges significant contributions from individuals in the industry.
– **SBWA+ Outstanding Consultant Award 2026**: Honors an industry consultant for exceptional market guidance and strategic value.
– **SBWA+ Outstanding Speaker Award 2026**: Recognizes the best presenter at the summit, selected at the conclusion of day three.
Moreover, there will be special categories celebrating women in gaming, including:
1. **SBWA+ Innovation Queen of West Africa 2026**: Recognizes a female leader innovating in the West African gaming sector.
2. **SBWA+ West Africa’s Rising Star in Leadership 2026**: Honours an emerging leader with exceptional management skills.
Executives are invited to submit nominations to honor those advancing the African gaming industry. The deadline for nominations is Friday, October 2, 2026, and the awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. Nominations can be submitted online via the SBWA+ Eventus Awards Nomination Page.
With just two weeks left, limited delegate and complimentary operator passes are available, as is exhibition space. Qualified African operators and affiliates can apply for complimentary passes, while standard and VIP delegate passes provide access to all conference streams, networking luncheons, and the Welcoming Evening. Sponsorships and exhibition packages are still available to reach senior decision-makers and regulators in the region.
