The Stanley Hotel in Nairobi is the venue of the 6th Annual Conference for Gambling Regulators Africa Forum (GRAF). The 4-day conference was opened officially yesterday by Kenyan Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, who called for constant training and sharing of experiences by African gambling regulators to meet the challenges of emerging technologies. Launched in February 2003, GRAF provides a forum in which members can exchange views and information and discuss gaming policies.

Noting that a balance was necessary between the economic benefits of gambling and protecting the vulnerable, Musyoka said, "While we push for acceptance of the gaming industry as a legitimate and rewarding investment, we must in the same vein exercise caution lest its excesses undermine our moral fabric."

Delegations from some ten nations are attending the conference being held for the first time in Kenya. Speaking about gambling in Kenya, the Vice President commented that a government Draft Bill was being tabled in parliament that seeks to establish a national lottery. "Ultimately we expect that the proceeds of the National Lottery will go a long way in supporting programs in education, health, sports arts and culture and other worthy causes."

Mrs. Scholastica Chidyaonga, GRAF chairperson, appealed for gaming operators and investors to ensure that well qualified personnel were employed to maintain effective and quality services. She added that despite efforts by GRAF to strengthen the forum by the active participation of women, it was disappointing that their involvement in the gaming industry remained limited.
(E-10.31.08)

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