Choplife Gaming Limited (CLG), operator of the betPawa brand in Rwanda, has provided an update on its ongoing engagement with the Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA) regarding recent tax and regulatory matters affecting its operations.
Since entering the Rwandan market in 2022, CLG has served over 300,000 customers, supported 180 jobs, and contributed over Rwf33 billion in taxes and economic value, the firm indicated in a statement dated April 20, 2026.
The company stated that it has consistently operated with a strong commitment to compliance, including early adoption of the RRA’s real-time monitoring system.
In June 2024, a routine audit resulted in an assessment related to two key issues: (1) the interpretation and timing of Withholding Tax (WHT) on player winnings, and (2) the deductibility of essential technology and payment service costs.
While CLG and the RRA are making constructive progress toward an amicable settlement, key matters remain unresolved including the lack of a clearly defined and harmonised methodology for WHT application across the industry, the firm observed.
Across the market, operators have adopted varying approaches to WHT, with rates and application methods differing significantly and, in some cases, not applied at all. This inconsistency, the company said, has created an uneven operating environment and regulatory uncertainty for compliant operators.
Company’s major services pause amid compliance talks with RRA, sharp revenue decline
To ensure full compliance and avoid regulatory misalignment, CLG informed that it took the precautionary decision to suspend its online casino operations, which historically account for approximately 80 per cent of its business.
The company also subsequently paused deposit-taking activities while engagements with regulators continue. These measures have had a significant financial impact.
In January 2026, CLG contributed approximately Rwf1.8 billion in gaming and withholding taxes. By March 2026, this declined to Rwf108 million, with the business recording a negative revenue position during the period, as per information from the company.
CLG has also raised concerns regarding the audit treatment of its operational model, specifically the classification of core service providers as related parties, resulting in limitations on the deductibility of technology and payment costs essential to its operations.
Despite these challenges, CLG remains fully committed to Rwanda and continues to engage constructively with the RRA and relevant stakeholders.
"We have taken difficult decisions to remain fully compliant, even where it has significantly impacted our business,” said Mr. Eazi, Founder and Chairman of Choplife Gaming Limited.
"Our focus remains on working collaboratively with regulators to achieve clarity, consistency, and a sustainable operating environment for the industry.”
CLG looks forward to concluding ongoing discussions and resuming full operations in Rwanda.