By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Executive Director of the National Investment Board (NIB), Dr. Edward Hinga Sandy, has called for stronger investment support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), describing them as a critical driver of economic growth, job creation, and private sector development in Sierra Leone.

Dr. Sandy made the call on Wednesday, 11 June 2026, while delivering the opening remarks at the Sierra Leone Economic Diversification Project (SLEDP) Investor Roundtable held at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown. The event was held under the theme, "Converting Investor Interest into Closed Transactions."

The roundtable, organised under SLEDP with support from the World Bank and the Ministry of Finance, brought together investors, development partners, government institutions, business leaders, and twenty-one investment-ready Sierra Leonean SMEs seeking to attract capital and strategic partnerships. The initiative was implemented by IBF Expertise SA in partnership with The Betts Firm Consult.

In his address, Dr. Sandy said Sierra Leone is steadily repositioning itself as an emerging investment destination in West Africa through ongoing reforms designed to improve the business environment and strengthen investor confidence.

He highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by the National Investment Board to facilitate investment, including the establishment of the One Stop Shop Business Solutions Centre, the proposed Companies and Business Registration Bill, and the forthcoming Online Business Registration System.

According to Dr. Sandy, the SMEs participating in the roundtable represent some of Sierra Leone's most promising enterprises across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, agribusiness, technology, innovation, and the creative economy. He urged investors to move beyond expressions of interest and pursue concrete business transactions that will enable local enterprises to expand, generate employment opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

As part of the event, Dr. Sandy also participated in a high-level panel discussion on the SME Ecosystem and Policy Opportunities Forum alongside representatives from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, the Sierra Leone Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, and The Betts Firm Consult.

The panel discussions focused on strengthening collaboration within the private sector, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable business growth and entrepreneurship.

The Investor Roundtable further reaffirmed the Government of Sierra Leone's commitment to fostering a competitive investment climate and supporting SMEs as key drivers of economic transformation, innovation, and inclusive growth. Stakeholders expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between government, investors, and local businesses will help unlock the country's economic potential and accelerate sustainable development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/nib-boss-pushes-for-greater-sme-investment-at-sledp-investor-roundtable/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) has concluded a two-day stakeholders' engagement aimed at integrating Electoral Administration and Political Education into the country's university system, marking what officials described as a significant step towards strengthening democratic governance.

The forum, held in Freetown from 11 to 12 June 2026, was organised in collaboration with the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) and the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. The initiative is anchored in Recommendation 13 of the Cross-Party Committee Report on Electoral Systems and Management Bodies' Review, which advocates the inclusion of governance and electoral studies in school and university curricula.

Addressing university vice chancellors, principals, curriculum development experts, media representatives, and other stakeholders, the Chief Electoral Commissioner and Chairman of ECSL, Edmond Sylvester Alpha, described the engagement as a "deliberate and historic step" towards reshaping Sierra Leone's electoral culture.

He noted that the gathering represented a direct response to the Cross-Party Committee's recommendation that the Electoral Commission work with educational authorities to incorporate governance and electoral topics into the nation's educational system while strengthening civic and voter education initiatives.

According to Alpha, the report emerged from an inclusive national dialogue and called for the development of academic programmes on electoral administration and governance in collaboration with universities and other tertiary institutions.

"We are moving from recommendation to action," he said, adding that the initiative seeks to build a generation of Sierra Leoneans who understand democracy, elections, and civic responsibility.

The ECSL Chairman stressed that elections should not be viewed as isolated events that occur every five years but as a permanent pillar of democracy sustained by informed citizens, professional administrators, and a political culture rooted in integrity.

He observed that knowledge of election management, legal frameworks, logistical systems, and ethical standards has largely remained within a small group of practitioners and said the proposed curriculum would broaden access to that expertise.

Alpha identified three major benefits expected from the institutionalisation of electoral education.

Firstly, he said it would create a professional pipeline by nurturing future electoral administrators, researchers, political and civic educators with both academic and practical knowledge of democratic processes.

Secondly, he explained that integrating political education into university programmes would help foster a culture of electoral integrity by promoting tolerance, non-violence, and respect for the rule of law among future leaders in politics, civil society, the media, and public institutions.

Thirdly, he maintained that an educated electorate remains the strongest defence against misinformation, electoral manipulation, and political apathy.

The ECSL Chairman emphasised that the two-day engagement was not merely about introducing another academic subject but about developing a comprehensive and non-partisan curriculum through collaboration.

Participants were invited to deliberate on the content of an electoral studies programme, ways of balancing theory with the practical realities of Sierra Leone's electoral system, and strategies for tailoring courses to undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional certification levels.

He also highlighted the need for teaching approaches that would not only educate students about elections but also cultivate civic values capable of shaping responsible public conduct.

Alpha praised the expertise of university leaders and curriculum specialists, describing them as the driving force behind the initiative.

"The Electoral Commission brings technical knowledge of election management, while the academic community provides the rigour and institutional authority required to teach and certify these programmes," he said.

Reaffirming the Commission's commitment, Alpha disclosed that ECSL would provide institutional knowledge, resource materials, and technical personnel to support the implementation process.

He also announced plans to facilitate internships, election observerships, and joint research programmes for students.

The ECSL Chairman expressed the hope that, in the near future, graduates from Sierra Leonean universities would complete courses in electoral democracy that equip them to contribute meaningfully to credible elections.

He further called on the academic community to take ownership of the initiative, stressing that its long-term success would depend on the commitment of universities.

In a separate address during the workshop, Alpha underscored the importance of developing a curriculum in Electoral Governance for higher education institutions.

He noted that the quality of democratic institutions depends largely on the quality of citizens, leaders, and electoral practitioners produced through education.

According to him, credible elections require strong institutions, sound legal frameworks, ethical leadership, informed citizens, and competent electoral administrators.

He observed that modern electoral processes have become increasingly complex, involving issues such as voter education, electoral technology, election security, campaign financing, dispute resolution, misinformation, gender inclusion, youth participation, and electoral integrity.

Alpha therefore argued that higher education institutions should offer structured programmes capable of preparing a new generation of professionals to effectively manage and support democratic processes.

He also stressed the importance of collaboration among electoral bodies, ministries, universities, civil society organisations, development partners, political parties, and the media to ensure that the curriculum reflects both international best practices and Sierra Leone's national realities.

Concluding the engagement, the ECSL Chairman described democracy as a learned behaviour sustained by knowledge, values, and habits passed from one generation to another.

He said embedding electoral administration and political education in the university system would help professionalise democracy, strengthen electoral integrity, enhance citizen participation, and contribute to peaceful and credible elections for generations to come. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecsl-chairman-urges-universities-to-drive-democratic-governance-education/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has undertaken a comprehensive inspection tour of some of Sierra Leone’s most important heritage, tourism, and environmental sites, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to preserving the nation’s history, promoting sustainable tourism, and safeguarding its natural resources for future generations.

The inspection tour, conducted on Thursday, 11 June 2026, took the President to Bunce Island, the Leicester Peak Viewpoint, and the Tacugama Innovation Centre, three landmark destinations that showcase Sierra Leone’s unique blend of history, culture, and ecological wealth.

A major highlight of the visit was President Bio’s historic tour of Bunce Island, marking the first visit by a sitting Sierra Leonean President to the site in four decades. The visit reflects the administration’s determination to preserve national heritage, strengthen tourism, and deepen engagement with descendants of the African diaspora across the world.

Located in the Sierra Leone River, Bunce Island remains one of West Africa’s most significant historical landmarks and an enduring symbol of the transatlantic slave trade. The island served as a major British slave trading post from the late seventeenth century and today stands as a place of remembrance, reflection, and resilience.

During a guided tour of the historic site, the President received detailed briefings on the island’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and its lasting significance in world history. He visited key remnants of the former slave fortress, including holding areas and defensive structures that bear witness to the experiences of thousands of Africans who passed through the island before being transported across the Atlantic.

The President was also briefed on Bunce Island’s historical links with descendants of enslaved Africans in North America, particularly communities in the United States whose ancestral roots trace back to Sierra Leone. These connections continue to create opportunities for cultural exchange, heritage preservation, and diaspora engagement.

President Bio emphasized that preserving such historic sites forms part of the Government’s broader national development agenda, noting that they serve as important tools for education, historical reflection, and economic growth through tourism.

During the visit, the President laid a wreath in honour of the thousands of enslaved Africans who passed through the island, paying tribute to their resilience and sacrifice while reaffirming Sierra Leone’s commitment to preserving this important chapter of world history.

The President later proceeded to the newly developed Leicester Peak Viewpoint, one of the Government’s flagship tourism infrastructure projects.

Accompanied by the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Tunis, he toured the modern facility, which offers panoramic views of Freetown and the Atlantic coastline. The upgraded viewpoint is part of the Government’s broader strategy to transform Sierra Leone into a competitive and attractive tourism destination.

Commending the Ministry of Tourism for the transformation of the site, President Bio praised the quality of the work and stressed the importance of maintaining the facility.

“I want to thank you all for this tremendous job you have done here. This facelift will attract tourists and help reposition Sierra Leone as a tourism destination. However, I urge all of you to keep this place clean and tidy so that it can continue to serve the purpose for which it was built,” the President said.

He further noted that investments in tourism infrastructure are essential for creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and showcasing Sierra Leone’s natural beauty to the international community.

As part of the inspection tour, President Bio also visited the Tacugama Innovation Centre project, where construction is progressing on a state-of-the-art facility designed to promote tourism, education, environmental conservation, and creativity.

The ambitious project will feature a green park, observation tower, greenhouse, visitor centre, hiking trails, amphitheatre, children’s recreational facilities, and a canopy walk. Upon completion, the centre will also include a cinema, library, studio, boardroom, rooftop cafeteria, and exhibition spaces, creating a unique destination that combines learning, recreation, and environmental awareness.

Expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, President Bio described the Innovation Centre as a transformative initiative aligned with Sierra Leone’s sustainable development aspirations.

“The Tacugama Innovation Centre should be utilized as a space for creativity, conservation, and sustainable development,” the President stated.

He also issued a strong warning against encroachment and land grabbing within protected conservation areas, stressing that the Government would take decisive action against individuals who threaten the country’s environmental assets.

“I want to give a clear warning against encroachment here. The law will take its full course against those who engage in land grabbing in conservation areas,” he cautioned.

The inspection tour reflects the Bio administration’s integrated approach to national development by leveraging Sierra Leone’s historical heritage, tourism potential, and environmental resources to drive economic growth, strengthen national identity, and create opportunities for future generations. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/president-bio-tours-bunce-island-leicester-peak-and-tacugama-to-boost-eco-tourism/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA Sierra Leone and President of the Sierra Leone Bankers Association, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, has called on journalists to embrace responsible and development-driven reporting, describing credible journalism as a key driver of economic growth and national development.

Mohamed Alhajie Samoura made the statement while delivering the keynote address at the 55th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), held on Friday June 12, 2026 at the University of Makeni Auditorium under the theme: "Strengthening Sierra Leone's Economy Through Responsible Journalism."

Addressing journalists, government representatives, development partners, and media stakeholders, Samoura said responsible journalism is no longer just a professional obligation but an economic necessity in an era increasingly challenged by misinformation, disinformation, and rapid digital transformation.

He explained that every thriving economy is built on trust, transparency, and accountability, adding that accurate and balanced reporting creates the confidence needed by investors, businesses, and development partners to make long-term commitments.

Samoura, who described himself as "a son of the media," paid tribute to his late father, Mohamed Samoura, one of the founding fathers of the Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA) and a former Commissioner of the Independent Media Commission. He disclosed that his own career began in journalism before moving into banking, giving him a deep appreciation of the profession and its role in nation-building.

According to him, responsible journalism should not be mistaken for public relations or the concealment of national challenges. Instead, he urged journalists to report on problems while equally highlighting solutions and opportunities for national progress.

He encouraged media practitioners to focus more on development issues such as agriculture, financial inclusion, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, technology, and economic diversification, noting that the media has the power to shape national conversations and influence policy priorities.

Samoura also challenged journalists to familiarize themselves with Sierra Leone's Medium-Term National Development Plan and use data-driven reporting to monitor government commitments and development outcomes.

On the issue of media sustainability, he observed that many media institutions continue to face financial difficulties and urged media owners to adopt entrepreneurial approaches, embrace digital innovation, and develop sustainable business models that reduce dependence on political patronage and irregular sponsorship.

He further called for stronger collaboration between the media, government, the private sector, and development partners to promote accountability and inclusive economic growth.

Earlier, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara welcomed delegates and reaffirmed the Association's commitment to defending press freedom, promoting professionalism, and protecting the welfare of journalists.

He described responsible journalism as a national duty that supports transparency, accountability, and sustainable development. Kamara also addressed concerns over the Government of Sierra Leone's annual subvention to SLAJ, maintaining that the financial support does not compromise the independence of the Association or silence the media.

The National Coordinator of the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), Dr. Francis Sowa, also delivered a goodwill message in which he described responsible journalism as a critical pillar of democratic governance and economic transformation.

Dr. Sowa noted that business confidence and public trust depend largely on the quality of information available to citizens and institutions. He called for greater investment in media sustainability and professional development to strengthen independent journalism in Sierra Leone.

The Inspector General of Police, Mr. William Fayia Sellu, also addressed the gathering and praised the longstanding relationship between the Sierra Leone Police and SLAJ.

He commended journalists for giving a voice to the voiceless and contributing to democratic governance while encouraging practitioners to uphold the principles of fairness, accuracy, humanity, and accountability.

IGP Sellu reaffirmed the Sierra Leone Police's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the media and invited the SLAJ leadership to engage with police recruits as part of efforts to improve understanding between journalists and law enforcement officers.

The keynote presentations and goodwill messages formed one of the major highlights of the two-day AGM, with delegates agreeing that a professional, independent, and sustainable media sector remains essential for promoting accountability, strengthening democracy, attracting investment, and supporting Sierra Leone's economic transformation. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/uba-ceo-calls-for-development-journalism-and-sustainable-media-at-slaj-annual-meeting/

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has praised the successful organization of the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, commending the dedication and coordination of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce and all institutions that contributed to what he described as another successful religious exercise for Sierra Leonean Muslims.

Speaking on Friday, 12 June 2026, after joining President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for Jummah prayers at State House to welcome returning Hajj pilgrims from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Vice President highlighted the Government's commitment to improving the management of one of Islam's most sacred obligations.

Dr. Juldeh Jalloh noted that the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate the safe return of the pilgrims and to thank Allah for the successful completion of the holy journey.

"Today, I joined His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for Jummah prayers at State House to welcome our returning Hajj pilgrims from Mecca," the Vice President stated, adding that the President had emphasized the significant progress made in the administration of the Hajj programme, including the expansion of opportunities for Sierra Leoneans living in the diaspora to participate in the pilgrimage.

As Supervisor of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh expressed profound appreciation to members of the Taskforce and all partner institutions whose dedication ensured the smooth coordination and successful execution of this year's pilgrimage.

"I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the Taskforce and all institutions whose hard work and coordination made this year's pilgrimage another success," he said.

The Vice President also offered prayers for the returning pilgrims and the nation, saying, "May Allah accept the Hajj of our pilgrims and continue to bless Sierra Leone."

The special congregational prayer at State House brought together returning pilgrims, religious leaders, government officials, and members of the Muslim community to offer gratitude for a safe pilgrimage and to pray for lasting peace, unity, and national development.

Providing an overview of the 2026 Hajj exercise, Chairman of the Presidential Hajj Taskforce, Alhaji Murtada Sesay, disclosed that a total of 2,626 Sierra Leonean pilgrims, including members of the diaspora community, participated in this year's pilgrimage. According to him, 826 pilgrims travelled directly from Sierra Leone, and all participants successfully completed the sacred rites and returned home safely.

Alhaji Sesay commended President Bio and his Government for their unwavering support and acknowledged the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders whose contributions ensured effective planning and management throughout the exercise.

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, in his address, warmly welcomed the pilgrims home and congratulated them on fulfilling one of Islam's most important acts of worship. He praised the Presidential Hajj Taskforce for its efficiency and commitment, noting that the continuous improvements in the Hajj management process reflect the Government's determination to provide better public services for all Sierra Leoneans.

The President further encouraged institutions, development partners, and citizens to continue supporting national development efforts while praying for peace, unity, and prosperity across the country.

The prayer session concluded with special supplications for national cohesion, economic progress, and the continued advancement of Sierra Leone, reaffirming the important role of faith in promoting hope, solidarity, and collective responsibility in nation-building. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/vice-president-hails-seamless-2026-hajj-praises-president-bios-leadership/

By Tilda Mammah

The Generational Impact Movement (GIM), with support from Plan International through the Youth Challenge Fund, has successfully implemented the Community Climate Resilience and Emergency Preparedness Project in selected communities across Moyamba District, significantly boosting awareness of climate change and strengthening local capacity to respond to environmental challenges.

The initiative was designed to promote environmental conservation, improve emergency preparedness, and build community resilience against the growing impact of climate change, particularly among vulnerable groups, including women, young people, schoolchildren, and persons with disabilities.

The project began with a comprehensive community assessment carried out by the GIM project team in collaboration with local stakeholders. The assessment identified communities and schools facing environmental threats such as deforestation and declining vegetation cover. Through consultations with community leaders, school authorities, women, youth groups, and disability organizations, the project selected its target communities and beneficiaries.

Following the assessment, an implementation strategy was developed to ensure broad community participation and ownership. The project placed particular emphasis on involving school-going children, youth, women, traditional leaders, and persons with disabilities, recognizing their critical role in promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience.

The project was officially launched on 24 March, bringing together stakeholders from across the participating communities. During the launch, participants were introduced to the objectives of the initiative, expected outcomes, and the collective responsibilities required to advance climate action and emergency preparedness.

As part of the implementation process, a series of climate change awareness sessions were organized to educate beneficiaries on the causes and consequences of climate change and environmental degradation. Discussions focused on issues such as deforestation, poor waste management practices, and other human activities that contribute to climate-related disasters.

Participants were also equipped with practical knowledge on climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, enabling them to adopt environmentally friendly practices that can help protect their communities and natural resources.

To expand the reach of the awareness campaign, the project team organized weekly market sensitization activities and radio discussion programmes. These platforms created opportunities to engage traders, farmers, women, youth, and the wider public on the importance of environmental protection, responsible waste disposal, and collective efforts to address climate challenges.

A major highlight of the project was its environmental restoration component through tree planting. A total of 100 tree seedlings were distributed and transplanted across selected schools and communities, including Njagbahun and Mokorewa in Fakunya Chiefdom and Mbaoma in Dasse Chiefdom.

The tree planting exercise attracted the active participation of students, teachers, community leaders, women, and young people, reinforcing the importance of environmental stewardship and long-term sustainability.

The project concluded with an Emergency Preparedness Training that brought together community members and key stakeholders to discuss disaster risk reduction strategies and practical emergency response measures. Participants received training on protecting natural resources, promoting proper waste disposal, and strengthening community resilience against climate-related hazards.

According to GIM, the initiative directly benefited 160 people across the target communities and schools. Through a combination of awareness campaigns, community engagement, tree planting exercises, market sensitizations, radio programmes, and emergency preparedness training, the project has significantly enhanced public understanding of climate change and environmental conservation.

Project Highlights

- Direct beneficiaries reached: 160


- Schools engaged: 3


- Seedlings distributed and transplanted: 100


- Key activities included: Project Launch, Climate Change Awareness Sessions, Weekly Market Sensitizations, Radio Discussion Programmes, Tree Seedling Distribution and Transplanting, and Emergency Preparedness Training.

The Generational Impact Movement expressed gratitude to Plan International and the Youth Challenge Fund for their support in making the project a success. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to empowering communities, promoting climate action, and contributing to sustainable development across Sierra Leone. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/community-climate-resilience-and-emergency-preparedness-project-empowers-communities-in-moyamba-district/

Nnanna Chigozie Ewuzie, Compliance Manager at 1xBet Nigeria, took part in the Responsible Gaming Symposium, where he focused on one of the biggest challenges for safer gambling in Africa: players need to understand protection tools before they can use them effectively.

At the Symposium, Nnanna presented 1xBet’s view on player education as a core part of responsible gambling. His remarks were built around insights from 1xBet’s research - Independently Commissioned Player Protection Index, which shows that in many African markets betting is still often seen not only as entertainment, but as a possible source of income.


Education before warnings


Nnanna stressed that responsible gambling tools remain important, but they are not enough on their own. Deposit limits, self-exclusion and time-outs can only work when players understand why these tools exist and how they can help.

“If we want safer play, we must teach, not only warn the players. A tool only works when a player understands it. A limit means nothing if a player does not know why it helps,” Nnanna said.

This was the central idea of his contribution: education turns responsible gambling from formal messaging into a practical choice. When players understand the risks, odds, limits and available protection tools, they are more likely to stay in control.

“Education turns a warning into a choice. It helps a player move from betting for hope to betting with control,” he added.


What the data shows


The Player Protection Index research by 1xBet also points to a wider shift in the industry. According to the findings referenced by 1xBet, 69% of operators now agree that a safer player is more profitable over time. This suggests that player protection is increasingly being seen not only as a regulatory requirement, but as part of long-term business sustainability.

The research also shows that 84% of respondents believe player education is the foundation of safer gambling. At the same time, Simon Westbury, Strategic Advisor to 1xBet, has highlighted that only a small share of operators strongly believe players fully understand what “Positive Play” means.

For Simon, this shows a clear gap between the tools available and the way players understand them.

“Player education was the foundation of safer gambling. Positive play is when the player is educated and informed of their decisions,” Simon said.

He also connected safer gambling with long-term trust between operators and players.

“If you can retain a player and give a player a safe, fun environment to gamble, then they are going to stay with you longer,” he said.


Africa needs local and practical solutions


The discussion also reflected the specific realities of African markets. Regulation, payment habits, languages, digital access and retail betting culture differ across countries. This means safer gambling standards cannot simply be copied from other regions.

The Player Protection Index by 1xBet points to a 56% / 44% split in views on how consistent player protection standards are across markets. For Nnanna, this reinforces the need for a common base that can be adapted locally.

That base should be simple: set limits, understand odds, take breaks and ask for help when needed. Each market can then adapt the language, examples and delivery channels to its own context.

In markets where many players rely on cash or in-person betting, education may need to come through voice, video, visual formats, local languages and shop staff, not only through long text or formal disclaimers.

“Simple words and pictures travel further than long text,” Nnanna noted.


From compliance to real understanding


Both Nnanna and Simon pointed to the same conclusion: safer gambling in Africa must move beyond small print and generic warnings.

The industry still faces real barriers. Simon has noted that 49% of respondents see commercial considerations as a blocker to player protection, while 67% of players are apathetic towards safer gambling and player protection tools. This is why education matters: many players do not use protection tools because they do not see how those tools apply to them.

For Nnanna, operators and regulators need to agree on what good player education looks like. He pointed to three practical steps: a shared standard for education, room to test what works and honest data-sharing.

“We cannot build trust if we only show the good numbers,” Nnanna said.

For Simon, collaboration is also essential. The research shows that 96% of respondents believe safe gambling is only possible through cooperation between operators and regulators. This cooperation should help turn player protection from a compliance requirement into something players can understand and use.


1xBalance and the next step


1xBet’s responsible gambling work also includes 1xBalance, a dedicated project and website focused on education, self-checking and helping players better understand their betting behaviour.

Through the 1xBalance website, players can access simple educational materials, take a self-assessment test and use a budget calculator to better understand their spending habits. The idea is to make player protection softer, clearer and less intrusive.

Instead of treating responsible gambling as a clinical or distant topic, 1xBalance presents it as something practical: a way for players to check themselves, understand their behaviour and make more informed decisions.

This reflects the main message of the Responsible Gaming Symposium: safer gambling will depend on education, cooperation and tools that players can actually understand.

For 1xBet Nigeria, Nnanna Chigozie Ewuzie’s participation showed that responsible gambling in Africa is not only a regulatory issue. It is also a communication challenge, an education challenge and a trust challenge.

The next step is clear: teach better, explain earlier and help players turn protection tools into real choices.

  https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/1xbet-nigerias-nnanna-chigozie-ewuzie-calls-for-better-player-education-at-responsible-gaming-symposium/