The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) has announced the suspension of Baron Sports Gaming Ltd, operating as Forzza, effective immediately. This decision prohibits the company from conducting any operations within Rwanda and mandates the removal of all associated advertising and promotional materials.
The suspension stems from Forzza's repeated engagement in offering casino-style games that exceed the limits of its licensed activities. The RDB clarified that Forzza only holds a licence for sports betting, underscoring the operator's deviation from regulatory compliance.
Should Forzza choose to continue its activities during this suspension, the RDB has indicated that further enforcement actions may be taken against the company.
In a statement to The New Times, a Rwandan newspaper, Forzza expressed its surprise regarding the suspension, noting that it had not received an explanation from the RDB for this action.
According to Serge Nyombayire, COO of the RDB, there are currently 15 licensed operators within the Rwandan gambling market, including a national lottery. Following the suspension of Forzza, this number drops to 14.
The market is expanding, with three new operators recently gaining licenses earlier this month: both ForteBet and Betway, owned by Super Group, secured licenses for online sports betting and casino operations, while ElephantBet was granted a license exclusively for online sports betting.
Nyombayire emphasized the importance of attracting reputable operators like Super Group’s Betway to Rwanda’s developing gambling sector, stating that their established track record in international markets is vital for growth. He described the collaboration with seasoned companies as an opportunity to learn and refine local gambling regulations.
“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,” Nyombayire remarked. He also highlighted the potential for these operators to assist in shaping future gambling laws in Rwanda, suggesting a mutual exchange of knowledge will benefit the sector’s development.
