SBWA+ Summit 2026 and GEFA 2026 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+ Events Awards Ceremony: 14 October

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.

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