Across tech, product, operations, data and marketing, Logifuture is a clear leader in 360-degree B2B solutions for iGaming operators. Now, in a clearly-defined strategy, the Malta-headquartered company is focussing on making a mark in Africa’s emerging markets, writes Lauren Harrison.
Founded in 2019 as a software development and consultancy firm, today the company specialises in virtual sports gaming and casino games, offering advanced data-driven solutions to operators worldwide.
Leading the charge is Group CEO Vincenzo Rocco, a serial entrepreneur with more than two decades of experience in technology and iGaming.
Since stepping into the role in 2024, having been promoted from Company Director, Vincenzo has already made a significant impact.
Today, he joins iGamingFuture’s Head of Content Curtis Roach to share exclusive insights on Africa’s challenges and opportunities.
Read on as Vincenzo explores the key drivers of growth in African markets and explains how operators can bridge gaps in regulatory frameworks, the primacy of localisation and nominates the best ways to approach all-important responsible gambling.
Africa has become one of the most talked-about frontiers for iGaming expansion. What key dynamics make the continent, especially Nigeria and Kenya, such a unique growth opportunity compared to more established markets?
“There are multiple factors. But I think it mainly boils down to demographics. Africa’s population is growing at a steady pace, while in Europe it’s not.
“Africa’s population is also very young, compared to Europe’s ageing population.
“This means there are a lot of 18-year-olds who are interested in sports betting, especially football and the European leagues.
“I think these are the key factors that enable future growth for sports and iGaming on the continent.”
Emerging markets often come with fragmented infrastructure and regulatory frameworks. How do you see technology, particularly scalable platforms, bridging those gaps to unlock sustainable growth in Africa and beyond?
“Technology is key. Emerging markets have the opportunity to build infrastructure from scratch. With the right technology, they can set up the mechanisms and functionalities needed for the industry to grow sustainably.
“Emerging markets tend to lag behind from a technological perspective, but what we’ve seen over the last few years in many African countries is huge growth in Internet and device penetration. This is opening the way for real iGaming growth.
“As these markets are starting fresh, they have the advantage of learning from what’s worked and what hasn’t in other regulated markets, meaning they can build stronger, tech-driven frameworks that are more adaptable and efficient from day one.”
When it comes to content, localisation is everything. How can operators in Africa most effectively adapt their offerings to reflect cultural nuances and player preferences?
“Localisation is very important. Africa has over 50 countries and each one varies. We often generalise Africa as a single market. Yet just as Italy and France differ within Europe, so too do Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa within Africa.
“It’s important to understand this and the market’s nuances: The dynamics, history and culture. Then we must make products and features that appeal to these consumers.
“At Logifuture, we even go as far as to have country-specific games, which are tailored specifically to the players there. Take IO, for example, this game is for Nigeria, and it’s inspired by a local game.
“We also have the Gidi slots, which is inspired by Nigeria’s GDI event, which is a huge concert.
“The best approach to localisation is going as deep as possible, making games and features that are very specific to each country.”
Responsible gaming and player protection are increasingly in focus worldwide. How easy will it be for Africa’s emerging iGaming markets to build responsible play practices into their frameworks from the start, rather than retrofitting them later as we’ve seen in Europe?
“I think it depends on how each government wants to tackle the issue. If the government has a strong approach and the right strategy, it won’t be complex to implement.
“We already have the technology and tools to monitor players. But ultimately, I think it will come down to the regulatory focus and how each market approaches player protection.
“But most companies are focused on growth and acquisition right now, and building their customer base and driving revenue; so responsible gambling tends to fall to the bottom of the list.
“The operators who want to lead should focus on sustainable retention and implementing player monitoring and responsible gambling controls, because in the long run, this adds value, not reduces it.
“In Nigeria, for example, we work with Bet Naija. Together, we’ve implemented a full responsible gambling framework, including player protection tools, self-exclusion options, and automated questionnaires for flagged users. This is the result of strong collaboration between key industry players and the Nigerian regulatory body.
“But the outlook differs in every country.”
Editor’s Note:
For Vincenzo, Africa’s youthful, sports-focused and fast-growing population remains the key driver of the continent’s iGaming potential. And it provides a sharp, positive contrast to Europe’s ageing demographics.
In a regional market largely marked by uneven infrastructure and fragmented regulatory frameworks, Vincenzo believes technology can be the decisive factor for operators. In his view, the best approach for operators is to build scalable, dynamic and sustainable platforms from the start.
He also stresses the importance of localisation. Vincenzo’s advice: Go as deep as possible, even making country-specific games and features.
With more than 50 distinct countries in Africa, operators seeking success must understand local nuances and tailor their services and content accordingly. It’s that simple – and critical for success.
On responsible gambling, Vincenzo believes most operators are currently focused on acquisition and growth, with RG often falling to the “bottom of the list” of priorities in emerging markets.
But he cautions that ignoring this for short-term gain is a mistake.
With the tools and technology already available, operators should be leading with best practice, by monitoring player behaviour and implementing responsible gambling measures. Because, ultimately, it results in a richer and more sustainable market.
