BetBlocker, the UK registered gambling charity that provides free, anonymous to use blocking software, had today announced the expansion of service to support users in the Bemba, Nyanja and Tonga languages.

With a rapidly expanding userbase, this is the first language support provided by BetBlocker to specifically target users in Africa. Using funding provided by Entain to support Zambian users, these three languages were selected and the most prominent indigenous languages, with almost 75% of the Zambian population speaking one of these dialects.

Working in partnership with Fresh Start Zambia, a charitable organisation working to minimise gambling harm, who supported the translation work, the three languages go live today.

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Founder and Trustee for BetBlocker, Duncan Garvie, had this to say about the launch of the Bemba, Nyanja and Tonga versions of the app:

“For BetBlocker it’s critical to be able to reach users in a language that they can comfortably engage in to ensure a smooth and speedy set-up process. Native languages also help us step past cultural barriers, showing that BetBlocker isn’t simply available to these communities, it’s actively working to support them.

This is especially important in under-served and under-supported markets, like many of the African countries. The sad truth is that there simply aren’t the support services available for many African nationals that exist in more established jurisdictions. To my mind that makes it doubly important to ensure that BetBlocker is available and easily accessing.”

Leading sportsbook provider prepares to debut in African market after rigorous certification process

Altenar, a leading sportsbook and iGaming software provider, has successfully obtained a licence from the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board (WCGRB), marking a significant milestone in its expansion into the burgeoning South African market.

Altenar is now a registered and licenced National Manufacturer in the thriving jurisdiction, following a rigorous process. During the initial stages, several stakeholders were required to complete detailed KYC and compliance checks, as well as fill in significant paperwork to demonstrate the provider’s suitability.

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This latest market debut demonstrates Altenar’s position as a sought-after partner with a flexible and localised solution. The opportunity opens up the doors to further expansion on the African continent and demonstrates its appeal to operators across multiple continents.

Sam Hill, Sales Director at Altenar, said: “Altenar is delighted to receive our licence to supply our sportsbook solution into South Africa. It is another significant step for us globally and is a key target market for us to further establish our product. We’re confident we have all the necessary product features and quality to offer the best solution on the market. This is across core sports such as football and racing, as well as offering customers the ease to prioritise key local content and sports via our highly flexible UI/UX.

“There are also a variety of ways that we support seamless cross-sell between products, which in a market such as South Africa, with the popularity of all verticals, will stand us and our customers in good stead. We are looking forward to the future in South Africa and the wider African market.”

BMM Testlabs (“BMM” or “the Company”), the world’s original gaming test lab renowned for exceptional product compliance services, today announced the promotion of Obed Mathabe to Vice President ─ Operations, Africa. This promotion recognizes Mathabe’s outstanding contributions and leadership in the gaming industry, as well as his proven ability to drive operational excellence across the African region.

In his new role, Mathabe will oversee all operations within the African market, continuing to lead strategic initiatives and enhance BMM Testlabs’ service offerings. His extensive experience in operational management, business development, and regulatory compliance positions him as an ideal leader for the Company’s growth in Africa.

Kirk White, President, Land-Based Gaming & Inspections at BMM Testlabs, said, “Obed has been instrumental in driving BMM Testlabs’ success in Africa, and we are confident that his leadership in this new role will continue to propel the company forward. His blend of technical expertise, business acumen, and leadership experience makes him an asset for BMM as we continue to grow and expand our presence across the continent.”

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Mathabe has a long history with BMM Testlabs, having most recently served as Operations Manager at BMM Testlabs South Africa. In this capacity, he successfully planned and directed operational activities to meet the Company’s business objectives in technical services, local management information systems (MIS), and project office administration. His ability to balance strategic planning with day-to-day leadership has been a key factor in his success.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role at BMM Testlabs and further contribute to the success of BMM,” Mathabe said. “Having worked closely with our teams across Africa, I’m committed to expanding our footprint, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring we continue to deliver world-class services to our clients.”

Additionally, Mathabe has held key roles within BMM Testlabs, including Business Development Manager, where he collaborated with senior leadership to create and implement market access and sales strategies for the African region. He also served as Technical Compliance Manager, providing expert technical compliance consultancy services while working closely with regulators and clients to expand BMM’s services.

In other career roles, Mathabe was the Founder and Director of Gaming Sight (Pty) Ltd., where he played a pivotal role in growing the company and establishing it as a leader in the African gaming market.

He also held influential roles at Tsogosun and Royal Caribbean International, where he managed technical departments, ensured regulatory compliance, and enhanced customer satisfaction.

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Mathabe’s promotion comes as part of BMM Testlabs’ ongoing commitment to strengthening its leadership team and enhancing its operational capabilities in key markets. With his vast experience, Mathabe will help guide BMM Testlabs toward maintaining its position as a global leader in online and land-based compliance testing, inspections, training, and support for regulators and operators.