Peter Mireku, Commissioner for the Gaming Commission of Ghana, believes that the upcoming Gaming Africa (24 and 25 October, Johannesburg) will help to alter some of the negative perceptions that exist of the industry as well as providing a high profile, professional showcase for gaming on the continent.

Mr Mireku, one of the thought leaders who will be speaking at the two day conference, said: “I think every gaming jurisdiction needs to establish a focal point. Africa comprises 54 countries whose gaming strategies are travelling at different speeds and in some cases in different directions. The coming together of the various interests, both governmental and those from within the industry, offers great opportunity for everyone to share information, experience and insight.

“Many thought leaders believe that gaming suffers from a negative narrative and events such as Gaming Africa provide a platform to demonstrate not only the technology that this industry deploys but it also shines a light on the importance attached to social responsibility and the harm minimisation initiatives that are at the heart of a progressive and sustainable industry.”

“Events like this are as much about listening as anything else. There will be some extremely smart minds in attendance, not just from Africa, but from much further afield, representing commercial organisations who want to conduct business on the continent and it would be foolish not to listen and to establish best practice. The challenge we face is achieving the balance between social responsibility and a successful, thriving industry.”