Gabon is entering a new phase in the regulation and management of its gambling industry, with state-owned operator La Gabonaise des Jeux (GDJ) placing greater emphasis on oversight, player protection and the fight against illegal gambling.

GDJ has identified four key priorities to guide its activities: securing the gaming sector, protecting players, combating illegal practices and supporting Gabon’s long-term economic development. The operator said these objectives would be pursued with integrity, transparency and responsibility, while remaining aligned with the country’s applicable laws and regulations.

The strategy follows the restructuring of Gabon’s gambling market and the creation of GDJ in December 2025 under Ordinance No. 0011/PR/2025. As the country’s state-owned gaming operator, GDJ is responsible for organizing, operating and controlling gaming activities that fall under the state monopoly.

The regulatory transition gained momentum in 2026, with existing gambling authorizations beginning to expire on April 7. Operators were subsequently required to regularize their businesses under the new framework by July 7. At the same time, GDJ launched an expression-of-interest process for private companies seeking to operate within the restructured market.

The organization also began establishing its internal operational framework. During its first Board of Directors meeting on August 7, GDJ approved its Strategic Development Plan, operating and investment budgets, as well as its internal regulations. Beyond Gabon, GDJ is also seeking to strengthen cooperation with established African gaming institutions.

Between August 10 and 14, a GDJ delegation visited Senegal’s LONASE for a bench-marking mission covering lottery operations, product development, sales, customer service and gaming technology.

GDJ’s broader mandate includes expanding and diversifying gaming and entertainment products, improving sector monitoring and surveillance, and centralizing financial flows across Gabon’s gaming industry.