Online Reporter
Daniel Chigunwe
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE has expressed concern over new gaming trends lamenting fragmented policies, offshore markets and the proliferation of unlicensed operators as posing challenges that demand a coordinated global response.
In his address to member states at the ongoing International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) conference in Canada, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe called for regulations that deter criminal activities including money laundering and fraud in the gaming industry.
The IAGR is a global network of gambling and gaming regulators working together to raise standards and improve regulatory outcomes worldwide.
It comprises representatives from gaming regulatory bodies and has grown to include members from over various jurisdictions across Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America and the Caribbean.
At its major core, IAGR aims to promote cooperation, information sharing and best practices in gaming regulation, ultimately enhancing the reputation of online gaming.
Delivering the opening remarks during the conference, Minister Kazembe’s thematic focus was, “Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling.”
“ In this era where digital platforms transcend borders, efforts to harmonise regulatory frameworks and foster collaborative intelligence are not only commendable, but there are also indispensable,” said Minister Kazembe.
“ While legitimate gaming contributes to economic and social development, illegal and unlicensed gaming operations threatens the very fabric of this progress. They undermine public trust, deprive governments of revenue and often serve as conduits for criminal activity, including money laundering and fraud.”
Whilst he called on IAGR for a collaborative responsibility to ensure that gaming remains a transparent, well regulated and socially responsible industry, Minister Kazembe also commended the African continent, with its youthful demography and rapid digital adoption, for emerging as a dynamic frontier in the gaming ecosystem.
“ Encouragingly, African regulators are stepping forward with resolve and are increasingly engaging in capacity building, data driven oversight and stakeholder inclusion. The continent is witnessing a shift from reactive enforcement to a proactive governance.
Meanwhile, under the Lotteries and Gaming Board, which falls under the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Zimbabwe is currently undertaking significant reforms to modernise regulatory frameworks, strengthen compliance mechanisms and enhance the capacity of its institutions.
“ Our goal is to strike a balance between promoting responsible gaming as a source of entertainment and economic opportunity while protecting citizens especially the youth and vulnerable from the potential harms of unregulated gambling.
“ We are also exploring the use of digital tools and data analytics to improve transparency and ensure that all gaming activities are licensed, monitored and contribute to national development,” added Minister Kazembe.
