Historic Initiative Unveiled at the ALGA CEOs Forum 2026 to Strengthen Consumer Protection and Dispute Resolution Across Africa
The African Lotteries and Gaming Association (ALGA) has officially established a continental industry Ombudsman, creating an independent mechanism to administer dispute resolution fairly across the sector. The milestone announcement was made by board chairperson Sebina Hlapolosa during the ALGA CEOs Forum 2026, The Black Table, hosted at the Zimbali Coastal Resort & Conference Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Designed as the first initiative of its kind on the continent, the Ombudsman will run alongside existing regulatory bodies and established jurisdiction-specific dispute structures without replacing or duplicating their statutory mandates. Instead, the office is intended to provide an impartial space for mediation, investigations, recommendations, and the fair consideration of disputes to support accountability and responsible industry practices.
Leadership Insights on Collaboration and Industry Growth
Addressing industry leaders and regulatory bodies gathered at the forum, Sebina Hlapolosa emphasized the collaborative nature of the new office during her keynote address:
“The Ombudsman is intended to work alongside existing institutions, providing an impartial space for mediation, investigation, recommendations and the fair consideration of disputes.”
ALGA Chief Executive Officer Musa Mngadi further elaborated on the vision behind the initiative and the necessity for collective action:
“We have reached a point where the gap between where our industry is today and where it needs to be can no longer be addressed through isolated interventions. That gap has gladly made its way into our markets, our policies, our enforcement mechanisms, our technology, our consumer protection frameworks and our ability to respond collectively to emerging threats.”
“If we’re serious about closing that gap, then we have to be prepared to speak openly about where we are succeeding, where we are falling short and, importantly, where we can learn from one another. It is only when we are willing to lay all out cards on the table that meaningful collaboration becomes possible.”
Following the forum discussions, the ALGA board indicated it will keep continental jurisdictions updated regarding further details concerning the proposed mandate, governance framework, operating model, and project implementation.
