IGSA Launches GSA Africa to Drive Gaming Standards in Rapidly Growing Market
In a significant move to meet the growing needs of the global gaming industry, the International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA) has introduced a pivotal addition – GSA Africa.
This announcement was made during IGSA’s annual meeting, where the organization unveiled a series of strategic initiatives set for 2024.
GSA Africa’s Mission
GSA Africa is set to function as a local office for IGSA, with a mission to establish and uphold essential gaming standards within the fast-evolving African gaming industry. These standards will span various aspects, encompassing land-based casinos, online gaming platforms, sports betting operations, and lotteries.
Heading GSA Africa is F. K. Fayad, the CEO of SamPro Group. Fayad brings with him a wealth of experience in trade, technology, ICT business, regulatory affairs, and government consultancy. His expertise spans regions such as Africa, Asia, the Gulf, and the Middle East, making him well-suited to lead GSA Africa. He is a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the gaming industry and service delivery across the world.
Strategic Collaborations and Donations
Apart from his role at SamPro Group, Fayad is also engaged in multiple strategic roles, including advising the Nigerian Arab Gulf Chamber of Commerce and serving as an economic advisor to the Commonwealth of Dominica. His dedication extends to humanitarian work as a volunteer member of the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees). Additionally, he holds a position as an Executive Board Member and Director of International Affairs and Business Diplomacy at the LEADERS WITHOUT BORDERS DEVELOPMENT CENTRE. Furthermore, SamPro Group has generously provided office space for GSA Africa’s operations.
Fayad expressed his honor in leading GSA Africa, emphasizing the rapid growth of the African gaming industry. He underscored the importance of bringing IGSA standards to the continent at this pivotal juncture in its expansion.
The Significance of GSA Africa
Peter DeRaedt, President of IGSA, highlighted the strategic significance of GSA Africa within the gaming industry. With gaming expanding rapidly across the continent, each jurisdiction comes with its own specific regulations. GSA Africa is positioned to serve as a guiding voice, ensuring that operators, suppliers, and regulators benefit from gaming standards.
Mark Pace, Vice President of IGSA and Managing Director of GSA Europe, shared insights from GSA Europe’s experience, underlining the positive impact it has had on the gaming industry in Europe. He stressed the importance of establishing a presence within the African region, allowing companies to become part of an organization operating within the Nigerian legal framework. The leadership of F. K. Fayad is expected to play a pivotal role in the success of GSA Africa.
Our comment on the article
The creation of GSA Africa by IGSA represents a strategic leap forward in meeting the demands of the rapidly expanding African gaming industry. Under the guidance of F. K. Fayad, a seasoned industry expert, GSA Africa is set to introduce and maintain gaming standards that cater to the nuanced regulations of each jurisdiction across the continent.
IGSA’s commitment to ensuring that operators, suppliers, and regulators across Africa benefit from these standards underscores the importance of GSA Africa. The new chapter is anticipated to play a crucial role in shaping the gaming landscape in Africa, supporting its ongoing growth and development.
