Cabo Verde Cabo Verde has officially sworn in Antónia Gomes Lopes as its new Inspector-General of Gaming, with government officials emphasizing the importance of transparency, integrity and impartiality in the regulation of the country’s gambling industry.

Lopes formally assumed office on October 23 during a ceremony attended by senior government officials, including Tourism Secretary of State Pimenta Lima and Prime Minister Francisco Carvalho.

Speaking at the inauguration, Lima stressed that the position demands a strong commitment to fairness, professionalism and accountability. He noted that effective oversight of the gaming sector requires not only technical expertise but also a deep sense of justice and public service.

The General Inspection of Gaming is responsible for monitoring and regulating a range of gambling activities in Cabo Verde, including casinos, gaming halls, lotteries, instant scratch-card games, sports betting and number-based wagering products.

Lima urged the newly appointed officials to work collaboratively towards building a more organized, competitive and equitable nation, highlighting the critical role regulatory institutions play in fostering public confidence and industry compliance.

Prime Minister Carvalho also challenged incoming institutional leaders to build on the achievements of their predecessors and contribute to strengthening governance across their respective sectors.

Lopes’ appointment was formalized through Order No. 30/2026, published in the Official Gazette on October 7, with her management contract taking effect from October 1. The same publication confirmed the end of the tenure of former Inspector-General José Cardoso Monteiro, whom Lopes succeeds.

Her appointment comes at a time when regulators across Africa are placing increased emphasis on strengthening oversight, promoting responsible gambling practices and ensuring greater transparency within the gaming industry.

As head of the gaming inspectorate, Lopes will oversee regulatory compliance across Cabo Verde’s gambling sector and help shape policies aimed at maintaining integrity, consumer protection and sustainable industry growth.