SportPesa will contribute to one of the global betting and gaming industry’s key conversations at this year’s SBC Summit in Lisbon, with Chief Commercial Officer Jason Gibson representing the company in discussions about the future of African gaming markets.
Ahead of the event, Gibson sat down with SBC News for an in-depth interview exploring the opportunities, challenges and continued growth of the betting industry across Africa. The discussion highlighted SportPesa’s unique position as a company that has grown alongside the markets it operates in, building deep local knowledge and long-term relationships with customers, communities and sporting communities.
In the interview, Gibson stressed the importance of constructive dialogue between regulators and operators, particularly as African markets continue to mature.
“The most important thing is that governments and regulators speak to the industry early,” he explained, noting that operators have hands-on knowledge that can help shape effective policy. “Operators are the ones with the data, the customer insight and the day-to-day experience of how the market actually works.”
The conversation also explored growing international interest in Africa’s betting markets. While competition continues to increase, Gibson expressed confidence in SportPesa’s position, highlighting the company’s long-standing presence across the continent.
“We know these markets, and more importantly, we know our customers,” he said.
The interview also reinforced the meaning behind the SportPesa Effect – the company’s long-term commitment to supporting sport and communities. Reflecting on SportPesa’s investment in grassroots and professional sport, Gibson noted: “Giving back has been part of our identity from day one… We call it the SportPesa Effect.”
“Our customers know that when they play on our platform, they are also supporting African sport and communities. That matters.”
For SportPesa, SBC Summit is an opportunity to bring practical, first-hand insight from African markets to a global industry audience, while highlighting the continent’s continued growth and long-term potential. The SBC Summit will take place from 29 September to 1 October 2026 in Lisbon.
