Sun International appoints Tumelo Mokoena as Responsible Gambling Manager for the group.
Sun International has announced the appointment of the first ever operator based Responsible Gambling Manager for the group in South Africa. In their chapter of leading with responsibility, they declare their commitment to ethical gaming in the ever-evolving gaming industry.
In the appointment announcement, Sun International states “This role is central to how we balance commercial growth with player protection, ensuring that responsible play is embedded across every touchpoint of the customer journey. It strengthens our ability to drive ethical gaming practices, deepen awareness, and meet the demands of an increasingly regulated, data-driven environment”.
According to Ulrik Bengtsson, CEO of Sun International, “To underscore Sun International’s leadership in responsible gambling, we have appointed a full-time Group Responsible Gambling Manager. Tumelo will set our responsible gambling policy and framework, ensure the training of our people, and ultimately ensure that we adhere to our Responsible Gambling Charter, meaning that customers are safe and that we remain compliant with regulations. The Responsible Gambling Manager will act as a link between customers, staff, regulators, and support organizations to ensure we follow best practice and foster a culture of sustainable and responsible gambling across the group.”
Tumelo brings a powerful combination of strategic communication expertise, public health research, and industry advocacy. With a strong foundation shaped at the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation, her work has focused on advancing responsible gambling practices through education, stakeholder engagement, and impactful communication. Her academic research into gambling behaviour and advertising, particularly among youth audiences, alongside her recognition as a leader in the industry, positions her to play a key role in shaping the future of responsible gambling at Sun International.
Commenting on the appointment, Tumelo Mokoena said: “I am deeply honoured to take on this role and grateful for the support from Sun International and industry stakeholders. I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively to strengthen responsible gambling and make a meaningful contribution by advancing Sun International’s vision and commitment to leading responsible gambling beyond compliance.”
Read Also: New Sun International CEO Ulrik Bengtsonn takes up the reigns
Tumelo’s appointment has been met with strong support from industry leaders and stakeholders, many of whom have praised the appointment as a progressive and timely development for the responsible gambling landscape. Noting its significance in reinforcing Sun International’s commitment to responsible gambling and ethical gaming standards, stakeholders have warmly welcomed the appointment, with many commenting positively on the significance of the role and expressing confidence in the leadership, experience, and strategic direction it will bring to responsible gambling initiatives, commenting on the appointment, Zuko Phandle, Audit and Compliance Manager of the Eastern Cape Gambling Board said:
“Tumelo Mokoena’s appointment as Responsible Gambling Manager underscores Sun International’ commitment to embedding Responsible Gambling (RG) beyond compliance, as a core business and governance imperative. Her transition from the South African Responsible Gambling Foundation into an operator role brings rare dual‑perspective value, moving from “referee” to “player” with deep institutional insight. With strong academic credentials and extensive international exposure, she is well positioned to drive consistent, measurable RG practices across Sun International’s footprint. Importantly, her appointment enhances engagement with regulators, supporting more informed oversight, alignment, and proactive risk mitigation. This creates a stronger platform for collaborative advancement of responsible, ethical gambling across jurisdictions where Sun International operates.”
Robin Bennett, Regulatory Compliance Head of Department of the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board said: “I wish to convey my congratulations to Tumelo on her appointment as Responsible Gambling Manager for Sun International. Having had the privilege of working with Tumelo you on various responsible gambling projects, I can personally attest to the depth of her passion, commitment, and drive in this critical area.
From the development of practical measures to promote responsible gambling to the implementation of awareness campaigns and stakeholder engagement sessions, your contributions have consistently demonstrated both strategic insight and operational excellence. I personally believe that these initiatives have not only advanced responsible gambling measures but also strengthened industry accountability and consumer protection. While I extend the customary best wishes and good luck, I am confident that success in this role will not depend on luck, but rather on the work ethic and dedication you consistently demonstrate.
I firmly believe that responsible gambling initiatives, tools, and measures are on the cusp of becoming one of the most powerful marketing assets available to licence holders. In this regard, you are exceptionally well positioned to help set the industry standard and lead the way forward. Once again, congratulations on this well‑deserved appointment. I look forward to seeing the impact you will make and to continuing our collaboration in advancing responsible gambling across the sector“,
This appointment marks an important step forward for Sun International in strengthening their commitment to safer play, ethical engagement, and long-term sustainability.
