Shortlisted Nominees Announced for the Sports Betting East Africa Eventus Awards 2026

As anticipation builds ahead of the 11th edition of the summit, the shortlisted nominees for the Sports Betting East Africa+ Eventus Awards 2026 have been officially announced.

Recognising the innovation, expertise, and progress shaping East Africa’s gaming and betting landscape, these nominees reflect a shared commitment to operational excellence and the continued advancement of the industry across the region.

Taking place on Day 1 of the summit (22 April 2026) at the Argyle Grand Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, the awards ceremony forms part of the Sports Betting East Africa+ Summit 2026 Official Welcoming Evening, bringing together and recognising leading operators, regulators, suppliers, and stakeholders from across the market.

Award Categories and Nominees

SBEA+ Operator of the Year Award 2026

Recognising operators demonstrating strong market presence, performance, and customer engagement across the region.

• Betika
• Pakakumi
• Shabiki
• SportyBet
• SportPesa
• WezaBet

SBEA+ Leader in Virtual Sports Award 2026

Celebrating advancements in virtual sports that continue to shape player engagement and product innovation

• EURO VIRTUALS LIMITED
• GoldenRace
• Inspired Entertainment
• Kiron Interactive
• Skillrock Technologies
• QTech Games

SBEA+ Leader in Sports Betting Award 2026

Recognising excellence in sports betting technology, services, and overall offering within the industry.

• Altenar
• BetConstruct
• BETER
• GR8 Tech
• PlaylogiQ
• Playtech

SBEA+ Leader in Responsible Gambling Award 2026

Acknowledging organisations promoting safe, transparent, and responsible gaming practices.

• ComplyGuard
• Global Lab
• Gambling Regulatory Authority – Kenya
• National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB)
• SportPesa
• Betika

SBEA+ Leader in Online Casino Award 2026

Recognising organisations contributing to the growth and development of online casino experiences

• Choice Gaming
• DSTGAMING
• Pascal Gaming
• QTech Games
• SA Gaming
• SmartSoft

SBEA+ Industry Influencer Award 2026

Celebrating individuals shaping industry conversations, insights, and thought leadership across the region.

• Agatha Wanjugu, QTech Games
• Brian Ondiso, Shabiki
• Derrick Omwakwe, MulaSport
• Geoffrey Muindi, Gaming NewsByte
• Kaluka Wanjala, iGaming Africa Hub
• Neville Robert Mwange, AfriGaming Bulletin

SBEA+ Supplier of the Year Award 2026

Recognising suppliers delivering reliable, innovative, and impactful solutions to operators across the market.

• BetConstruct
• BETCORE
• BETER
• GR8 Tech
• Kiron Interactive
• QTech Games

SBEA+ Innovation of the Year Award 2026

Honouring standout innovation driving product development, efficiency, and new opportunities within the industry.

• BetConstruct
• Blask
• Euro Games Technology (EGT)
• NUXGAME
• PlaylogiQ
• QTech Games

“SPiCE” Up Diversity Initiative – Celebrating Women in Gaming Awards

As part of the SBEA+ Eventus Awards, the “SPiCE” Up Diversity Initiative – Celebrating Women in Gaming recognises the women contributing meaningfully to the growth and evolution of the industry across the region.

SBEA+ The Spirit of East Africa 2026

Recognising individuals who embody leadership, integrity, and a strong commitment to industry growth across the region.

• Agatha Wanjugu, QTech Games
• Esther Argwings, Gambling Regulatory Authority
• Purity Wahiu, Stellar Bets
• Sabho Wambura, Vinnare Legal Chambers

SBEA+ East Africa’s Rising Star in Leadership 2026

Celebrating emerging leaders demonstrating strong potential and impact within the industry.

• Aileen Yonah-Mima, Carnaval Kenya Limited
• Ekaterina Mayorova, QTech Games
• Hydah Okinda, Pakakumi
• Judith Macharia, Africa Sports Unified

SBEA+ Innovation Queen of East Africa 2026

Recognising women driving innovation and forward-thinking across the gaming and betting sector.

• Cynthia Onyango, AGOK
• Emily Asava, SA Gaming
• Margherita Giudetti, PlaylogiQ
• Zsuzsanna Zeibig, EGT

SBEA+ Top Speaker Award 2026

Honouring the speaker who stands out for the quality, relevance, and impact of their session.

Please note: The recipient of this award will be announced at the close of the conference, once all speakers have taken the stage.

We extend our sincere congratulations to all shortlisted nominees. Your recognition reflects the dedication, expertise, and impact you continue to bring to the industry across the region. Winners will be revealed on 22 April 2026 at the SBEA+ Summit 2026 Welcoming & Awards Evening.

Let’s Meet in Nairobi!

Join us in celebrating the individuals and organisations driving excellence across the industry. Secure your pass and get direct access to the operators, regulators, and innovators driving the industry forward.

Register now: https://www.sportsbettingevents.com/sbea