ICE Africa's second edition kicks off today

Pre-registered delegates from a total of 29 African nations were expected to enter the Sandton Convention Centre following the opening of the second edition of ICE Africa on Wednesday. The ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by some of the industry’s leading dignitaries signaled the beginning of the annual two-day event which serves as a platform for 72 exhibitors and provides 15 hours of targeted learning delivered by a talent pool of over 60 thought leaders.

Speaking at the opening, Kate Chambers, Managing Director of organizer, Clarion Gaming, welcomed attendees and stated: "When Clarion Gaming was asked to create and organize an event for the industry in Africa, our vision was to help establish the foundations for future growth. In other words we weren’t simply concerned with staging an event that satisfied short term objectives. Our aim was to work with existing stakeholders and to use the influence and reputation of the ICE brand to help create a sustainable and successful future within an environment in which we could bring together the international industry’s most respected thought leaders alongside the innovators whose products and services make this sector so dynamic and exciting.”

She continued: "There’s no doubt that ICE Africa has developed and grown to be an invaluable focal point for the industry, providing a professional meeting place for the a-z of gaming on the continent. It provides a great opportunity for operators, regulators and suppliers to meet, network, share best practice and see the very latest gaming products and services.

“Before declaring the show open I would like to thank the team at Clarion Gaming for bringing ICE to Africa in such a professional way. To John Kamara, who has been a fantastic event ambassador, and to our friends in the media who serve as critical friends. Edward Lalumbe, in his capacity as Chief Operating Officer, Gauteng Gambling Board, was a great advocate for what we are trying to achieve. In June we learned of his passing following a tragic accident which also cost the life of his wife. ICE Africa owes an awful lot to Edward and I am sure he would be proud to see how it is showcasing the industry and helping to shape its future."