More than twenty years ago, a place emerged that would revolutionize the experience of gambling lovers not only in Mozambique but in Southern Africa. The first post-inde- pendence Mozambican casino is a reflection of the history of a people who, in the midst of multiple challenges, have always kept the will to have fun in magical gambling expe- riences. Located in the city of Maputo, on Avenida Marginal, the Polana Casino has a room with automatic gambling machines; in the city of Matola, where it also serves as a casino-school, it has a slot machine lounge. Operating in the country since 1996, Jacques Els, the General Manager of the Polana Casino, talks about his company’s path as well as how he is dealing with the pandemic.
WHAT IS THE WEIGHT OF THE POLANA CASINO IN THE GAMBLING MARKET IN MOZAMBIQUE?
The Polana Casino is the first casino in post-independence Mozambique. In October, we celebrated our 24th anniversary and, over the years, our concern has always been to be at the forefront when it comes to using the best technology and providing the highest quality services. It is a great pleasure to have it as a reference in the Southern African region.
HOW ARE YOU DEALING WITH THE EFFECTS OF THE PANDEMIC?
COVID-19 didn’t have a positive impact on business. Since the reopening, the Polana Casino has been strictly complying with the preventive measures issued by the World Health Organization, to ensure a safe and healthy gambling experience.
WHAT MEASURES HAVE BEEN TAKEN TO OVERCOME IT?
We installed social distancing software between players on all automatic machines. The number of chairs at the American roulette, black-jack and baccarat tables has also been reduced and all playable surfaces and areas are frequently cleaned.
WHAT IMPACT DID THESE MEASURES HAVE AT THE BUSINESS LEVEL?
There is a significant decline in visits and in revenue. Preventive measures, combined with the ban on the sale of alcoholic beverages and the prohibition of smoking, com- promised promotions and sweepstakes on a large scale, in addition to hindering better socialization by creating magical moments and unique and entertaining games for our customers.
WHAT STRATEGIES HAS THE POLANA CASINO ADOPTED TO ACCOMPANY THE EMERGENCE OF VIRTUAL GAMES ON THE MARKET?
With the emerging sports betting market, we took the opportunity to launch the online platform www. Jogabets.co.mz, a strong brand in sports betting and social games. With positive results every year on the market, the Polana Casino intends to be thefirst to bring online casino games to the country.
Foto: Ricardo Franco
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