Are Free Bets Really Free? GRAF 2026 Explores the Hidden Risks of Gambling Promotions
MOZAMBIQUE– The growing use of free bets, free play, bonuses and promotional offers in gambling marketing came under scrutiny during a panel session at the ongoing GRAF 2026 in Maputo, Mozambique, as industry stakeholders examined whether such promotions represent harmless marketing or an inducement to gamble.
The panel, titled “Free Play: Harmless Promotion, Smart Marketing or an Inducement to Gamble?”, brought together perspectives from advertising, regulation, technology and the gambling industry to explore the increasingly blurred line between effective promotional strategies and responsible gambling.
Discussions focused on how promotional offers are being used to attract and retain consumers, while raising questions around consumer protection and the potential risks associated with encouraging gambling through incentives.
The panel also examined whether existing regulatory approaches are keeping pace with the rapid evolution of digital marketing, particularly the growing influence of social media and influencer-driven gambling promotions.
With gambling operators increasingly leveraging digital platforms to reach consumers, panelists considered the need to strike a balance between commercial marketing objectives and safeguards designed to prevent excessive or irresponsible gambling.
The session was moderated by Yvonne Skepu, Executive Manager: Legal, Mpumalanga Economic Regulator, and featured Gail Schimmel, COO of the Advertising Regulatory Board of South Africa; Garron Whitesman, Gambling Consultant and Attorney at Whitesmans Attorneys; Lenny Reddy, Group Manager: Gaming Compliance & Regulatory Affairs at Sun International; Shelton Pagiwa, Chief Technology Officer at the National Gambling Board; and Jeremiah Maangi, CEO and Founder of iGaming AFRIKA, Kenya.
The discussion forms part of the broader conversations at GRAF 2026, where regulators, industry leaders and other stakeholders are examining emerging trends and challenges shaping Africa’s gambling and gaming ecosystem.
