The gambling industry in Rwanda is slowly gaining momentum, as both locals and international players begin to explore opportunities in the sector. Before launching a gambling platform, however, operators must first navigate the licensing process. In this post, we’ll explore the gambling licensing requirements in Rwanda, discuss costs and timelines, and detail the services you’ll need to establish before going live.
Gambling Licensing in Rwanda
In Rwanda, the gambling industry is regulated by the Rwanda Gambling Board (RGB), which oversees all forms of gambling, including sports betting, casino games, and online gambling. The Board’s primary function is to ensure that operators comply with the country’s laws, maintain a high level of integrity, and provide a safe and fair gambling environment for consumers.
Costs and Timeline for Licensing
The process of obtaining a gambling licence in Rwanda is relatively straightforward compared to other African countries. The application fee for a gambling licence is around $5,000, with an annual renewal fee of $2,000. The licensing process typically takes between 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of gambling licence being applied for and the quality of the application.
Compared to other African nations like Nigeria or South Africa, Rwanda’s licensing process is more affordable and less bureaucratic, making it an appealing choice for smaller operators looking to enter the market.
Key Services Required to Launch a Gambling Platform
Once you’ve secured your gambling licence, there are several essential services you’ll need to establish before going live:
- Payment Services: Partnering with local mobile money providers like MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money is crucial to ensure smooth financial transactions for your users.
- Banking Relationships: A local bank relationship, preferably with Bank of Kigali or I&M Bank Rwanda, will be necessary to manage business funds and operations.
- Gaming Software Providers: You’ll need to partner with a gaming software provider to offer online casino games, sports betting platforms, and other gambling services.
- Responsible Gambling Measures: Integrating responsible gambling features such as self-exclusion tools and setting deposit limits is required to comply with Rwandan regulations.