SiGMA Africa, one of the continent’s largest industry events, has had its 2026 edition at the GrandWest complex in Cape Town, RSA. The summit brought together major suppliers, operators, and regulators from across the region.
Program of the Business Conference
According to the organisers, interest in the show continues to grow, with the number of participants in panel discussions and networking meetings increasing annually. In 2026, the event attracted approximately 2,700 delegates, and in 2027, 3,000+ guests are expected.
This year, over 20 regulatory bodies from across Africa attended the summit. Government officials, including the RSA’s Minister of Tourism and its capital’s Deputy Mayor, also joined the gathering. They spoke at the opening ceremony, sharing personal opinions on the evolution of regional oversight and the positive economic impact of the gambling sphere.
The key topics of the sessions included:
- early support measures to combat ludomania;
- market development built through trust between all interested parties;
- implementation of new technologies and niche standards in various industry verticals.
Informal Meetings and the SiGMA Awards
To create an environment for comfortable networking and business connections, the organisers extended part of the program beyond the expo and conference halls. Attendees enjoyed a tour through the Durbanville Wine Valley and a closed golf tournament for top management, with the winner obtaining a Rolex watch.
The show’s 1st day concluded with the awards ceremony, which recognised industry leaders:
- Alea;
- Digitain;
- BetConstruct;
- SOFTSWISS, etc.
The latter deserves special attention as the company’s CMO, Valentina Bagniya, was recognised for personal contribution to the development of the gambling sphere. The nomination was organised with Women in Gaming Africa's support.
Several influential industry figures were praised within the Hall of Game category. This section included regulators, political figures, and executives from regional companies.
Among the celebrity guests were 5 football stars:
- Pierre Issa;
- Robert Pirès;
- Ludovic Giuly;
- Claude Makélélé;
- Christian Karembeu.
The evening also featured a charity art auction. Proceeds from it went to the SiGMA Foundation, which is involved in social projects related to healthcare and education.
Main Feedback Points and Further Plans
The 2026 summit was described as the most successful edition. Organisers have already confirmed the conference’s return to Cape Town next year in February.
According to SiGMA’s team, over the past 4 years, the event has become one of the key industry gathering points on the continent. The show continues to bring together operators, tech providers, and authorities, delivering a platform for discussing strategic issues in sector development.
The next major stop on the 2026 calendar will be the meeting in São Paulo:
- The trade fair is expected to attract approximately 18,500 delegates.
- The business program already includes over 250 speaker presentations.
- The expo area is designed to accommodate 400+ exhibitors and partners.
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