The gambling market in Africa is on the rise and it is predicted to reach a valuation of over US$ 6 billion by 2030.
Various factors influence growth, including technological advances, the increased use of the internet, a youthful population and the rise of the middle class on the continent.
The potential of the African gambling market attracts companies eager to expand their operation on the second-largest continent. That’s good news for players, although they must consider a few factors when looking for a safe place to gamble online.
Reputation Inspection
When operating in a highly competitive market, as the gambling sphere has been, a company must find a way to stand out. Building a positive reputation takes time, but can ensure many prosperous years if done properly. First, a gambling site must operate legally to stay relevant.
Therefore, for you as a punter, it’s critical to establish whether an online casino holds the appropriate permits issued by the correct authoritative bodies. Although it may seem tedious and time-consuming, checking an online casino’s license number on an authority site saves you from potentially unpleasant scenarios.
Fairness is another term that must be positioned high on an online casino’s priority list.
For that matter, you should look for information regarding which independent agency performs audits of RNG (the random number generator) and RTP (return to player) on a given site. GLI (Gaming Laboratories International) and eCOGRA (E-Commerce and Online Gaming Regulation and Assurance) are reliable sources.
A crucial part of your search for the best online casino is joining specialized review sites and forums where you can connect with other players and learn about their experience with different casino operators.
Finally, if you have time, see whether a gambling site has received some prestigious rewards, such as the Global Gaming Awards or International Gaming Awards (IGA).
Don’t Neglect a Security Check
With this, we want to encourage you to examine how an online casino approaches security. The procedure of creating an account includes entering your personal and financial information; it’s understandable if you need the guarantee that your data will be protected.
One method of protection includes the use of SSL encryption protocols. This measure ensures safe communication and data transfer between the user’s device and the site’s server.
Also, online casinos tend to partner with software developers that help them create unique offers and provide an exceptional user experience. Companies the likes of Microgaming, NetEnt, Evolution, and Pragmatic Play are the most popular. Aside from creating casino games, a software provider, in tandem with an online casino, is there to create a safe gambling environment.
Game Selection Is a Game Changer
Most online casinos will probably fail in their attempt to create original offers, as there is no such thing as originality in the gambling space, where you need to meet as many players’ preferences as possible to grow a customer base.
However, creating a niche and offering one game, such as slots, is an option. Also, you can create a diverse offer but prioritize table games such as poker, blackjack, or roulette over slots, even though you’ll still offer some attractive titles.
Here we can briefly open a debate around quality versus quantity. If security remains your top priority (and it should), we vote for quality. High-quality games come from reputable software providers. And we have already discussed how a partnership between reputable game developers and online casinos adds to players’ safety.
Choose Wisely: Bonuses and Other Incentives
Casino operators use various strategies to capture players’ attention; offering generous bonuses and promotions has proven effective.
For newbies, online casinos create attractive welcome bonuses, for instance, a no-deposit bonus. You don’t have to deposit your money. Instead, an online casino gives you free cash or spins as a thank-you for registering.
Online casinos also take good care of their existing members, offering them regular promotions. And for the most loyal, gambling sites create VIP and Loyalty programs.
However, one thing to bear in mind is the terms and conditions associated with these perks. If they are confusing, not transparent enough, or seem unfair, that might indicate the chosen site is not the best option.
Find the Best Way to Manage Your Funds
Every reputable gambling site should have a page dedicated to banking options available to deposit and withdraw money.
Similar to game and bonus selection, the best online casinos allow players to choose between various payment methods, including credit and debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies.
This one should not cause you a headache. Just choose the payment options you feel most comfortable with and learn as much as possible about the conditions, such as potential transaction fees, deposit/withdrawal limits, and processing times.
Moderation Is Key
Gambling is often fun and exciting, but can become addictive. That’s why when we say a good online casino, we think of an operator that also promotes responsible gambling. Still, at the end of the day, it’s all up to you.
Be mindful of your time and money. Only invest what you can afford to lose (again, time and money). Remember, online gambling is primarily a source of entertainment and any potential wins that might result, should be viewed as the ‘cherry on top’.
