The Legal Sports Betting Map of Africa and the Countries that Lead the Way

Africa’s sports betting sector attracts international operators eager to tap into one of the fastest-growing global markets. With mobile technology driving exponential growth, online betting revenue across the continent is forecast to soar in the coming years. 

But while the opportunity is clear, entering the African market is no walk in the park and getting to grips with legal frameworks, cultural diversity, and technological gaps can seem daunting. From identifying legal markets to uncovering hidden opportunities, we explore how operators are overcoming obstacles and achieving success in this promising new frontier.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended to be legal advice and is solely extracted from open sources. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal advice, and Altenar does not accept any liability in relation to its use. 

Overview of Sports Betting in Africa

Sports betting has cemented itself as one of Africa’s fastest-growing entertainment sectors, fuelled by the continent’s deep-rooted passion for football and other popular betting sports. Economic factors, such as the increasing affordability of smartphones and mobile data, have driven the widespread adoption of online betting platforms. Culturally, sports betting has evolved into a popular leisure activity, particularly among youthful populations. Meanwhile, technological advancements, including mobile payment systems like M-Pesa, have significantly improved accessibility, making Africa a promising outpost for innovative sports betting operators with ambitions to gain early market access to emerging markets.

Legal Status of Online Sports Betting by Country

The table below outlines the legal status of online sports betting across African jurisdictions based on information publicly available from regulatory authorities and operator activity. Please note that in some countries, the legal treatment of land-based and online betting may differ. This table focuses exclusively on the online segment of the market and should not be interpreted as a comprehensive guide to all forms of gambling.

Reviews of Top African Countries with Legal Sports Betting

Africa's sports betting scene offers significant opportunities for operators seeking to capitalise on growing markets with diverse consumer bases. Below, we dive into reviews of the continent’s leading countries for legal sports betting, highlighting their unique market characteristics, regulatory frameworks, and growth potential.

Nigeria

Nigeria’s sports betting operates legally under the National Lottery Act 2005 and is regulated by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission. With over 200 million people, including a youthful, football-loving demographic, Nigeria presents a vast and energetic market for sports betting. Mobile technology and widespread internet access have revolutionised the gaming and betting environment, creating immense growth potential. 

However, operators should note that the market is fiercely competitive, dominated by local brands like Bet9ja and NairaBET alongside international giants such as Betway and 1xBet. New entrants face regulatory hurdles and a high-tax environment but can thrive by offering innovative platforms, localised content, and engaging user experiences tailored to Nigeria’s unique betting culture.

Gambling Regulator: National Lottery Regulatory Commission

South Africa

South Africa's sports betting market presents an interesting opportunity for operators seeking to enter and expand in Africa. The industry operates within a well-established legal framework, with the National Gambling Board and provincial authorities overseeing activities. The nation's deep-rooted passion for sports, particularly football, rugby and cricket, drives a thriving betting culture. 

The market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with total wagers surpassing R1.1 trillion in 2024, marking a 40% increase from 2023. Prominent operators such as Betway, Sportingbet and Hollywoodbets dominate the market, and new entrants must develop innovative offerings to capture a decent market share. However, the growing online sector presents substantial opportunities for those willing to invest in understanding local consumer behaviour and regulatory compliance.

Gambling Regulator: National Gambling Board

Kenya

The Betting Control and Licensing Board regulates Kenya’s sports betting industry under the Betting, Lotteries, and Gaming Act. Like other top jurisdictions in the region, this structured framework provides operators with a clear regulatory pathway to enter one of Africa’s most active betting markets.

Kenyan consumers are enthusiastic about sports, with football leading the way. The rise of mobile money services like M-Pesa has revolutionised online betting, making transactions fast and accessible to Kenyans. While key players such as SportPesa and Betway command significant market shares, the increasing shift towards mobile platforms creates ample room for innovation. Operators entering the market must contend with a competitive environment and evolving tax policies, but opportunities abound for those who tailor their offerings to local preferences.

Gambling Regulator: Betting Control and Licensing Board

Ghana

Ghana's sports betting industry is regulated by the Gaming Commission of Ghana under the Gaming Act, 2006 (Act 721). This legal framework provides a stable environment for operators seeking entry into the market. Ghanaians' strong passion for sports drives the betting culture. This passion is supported by the increasing penetration of mobile technology and internet access, encouraging the growth of online betting platforms.

Prominent operators in the market include Betway Ghana and Mybet, among others, but while the market is competitive, it is not yet saturated. This offers opportunities for new entrants who can provide innovative and localised services. However, the need for reliable tech infrastructure must be carefully considered. Understanding local consumer behaviour and preferences is essential for success in this emerging market.

Gambling Regulator: Gaming Commission of Ghana

Uganda

Uganda's sports betting industry is regulated by the Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB), established under the Lotteries and Gaming Act 2016. Like other African nations, Uganda's market is characterised by a young and enthusiastic population with a strong passion for sports betting. Money services, such as MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money, have significantly facilitated the growth of online betting platforms, making transactions easy for local users.

Leading operators such as Betway Uganda, Fortebet, and BetPawa have carved a sizable niche in the market by tailoring their offerings to resonate with Uganda’s football-loving population. From live betting to mobile-first solutions, these companies continuously push boundaries. However, strict regulatory oversight, evolving tax obligations, and the demand for cutting-edge technology can test even seasoned operators. Success in Uganda, therefore, hinges on a deep understanding of local betting habits and the agility to adapt to a market that thrives on innovation and accessibility.

Gambling Regulator: Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board

Tanzania

Tanzania stands out as one of the earliest adopters of regulated sports betting in Africa, operating under the Gaming Act of 2003 and overseen by the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT). This early regulation has matured the market, creating a stable and attractive environment for operators. Unlike some other African markets, Tanzania boasts a strong integration of mobile payments, with platforms like M-Pesa and Tigo Pesa making betting more accessible to urban and rural populations. 

Leading operators like SportPesa and Premier Bet dominate the online betting scene, leveraging local knowledge to offer tailored products. Despite a competitive landscape and strict regulatory requirements, Tanzania provides a rare blend of market stability and growth opportunities for operators who can innovate and localise their services effectively.

Gambling Regulator: Gaming Board of Tanzani

Emerging Markets

Across Africa, several nations are moving closer to formalising sports betting through regulatory frameworks aimed at channelling economic benefits. In Ethiopia, while much of the market has historically operated informally, local reporting indicates that sports betting is regulated under the National Lottery Administration, which currently serves as the principal authority, while Côte d'Ivoire operates a regulated betting model to capitalise on its enthusiastic betting culture. Other nations, however, show potential as discussions around policy reform gain traction and early signs of regulatory interest emerge.

For iGaming operators, these markets represent a rare opportunity to pioneer betting solutions in untapped territories. First-mover advantages for shaping consumer habits and establishing strong brand recognition are substantial. Yet, hurdles exist, from untangling unclear regulations to managing the ebb and flow of political shifts and overcoming gaps in payment systems. Each demands strategic foresight and a strategic approach to overcome challenges. Success in such emerging markets will no doubt favour those prepared to innovate, adapt, and invest in building trust within local communities.

Legal Frameworks Governing Sports Betting in Africa

Africa’s approach to sports betting regulation is as diverse as the continent itself, with legal frameworks varying widely from country to country. In jurisdictions like South Africa and Ghana, sports betting is legal and regulated, thus providing structured environments for iGaming operators. Conversely, nations like Sudan enforce prohibitions, maintaining strict bans on betting activities. In between, several countries operate in a grey area, lacking clear regulations, which leads to unregulated markets where betting persists informally. 

Nonetheless, many African regulatory bodies have made notable strides in professionalising the sports betting industry. Success stories include Kenya’s Betting Control and Licensing Board, which has implemented stringent measures to combat illegal operations, and Nigeria’s National Lottery Regulatory Commission, which has cultivated transparency by introducing digital licensing systems.

Top 18 Considerations for African Market Entry

Expanding into Africa’s sports betting markets demands a strategic approach. Below are 18 essential considerations for operators seeking success.

1. Regulatory Compliance
   Understand the legal frameworks of each country and stay ahead of changing laws to avoid penalties.
   
   

2. Market Size and Demographics
   Assess population size, age distribution, and consumer enthusiasm for sports betting to identify growth opportunities.
   
   

3. Internet and Mobile Penetration
   Evaluate the availability of reliable internet and smartphone adoption rates, as mobile betting dominates in Africa.
   
   

4. Payment Systems
   Ensure integration with popular local payment methods like M-Pesa and Airtel Money for efficient transactions.
   
   

5. Cultural Preferences
   Tailor offerings to local sports and betting behaviours, with football often being the most popular focus.
   
   

6. Competition
   Analyse the market share of local and international operators to identify gaps and opportunities for differentiation.
   
   

7. Economic Conditions
   Consider disposable income levels and overall economic stability to gauge consumer spending power.
   
   

8. Technological Infrastructure
   Assess the availability of platforms and tools to support efficient operations in sometimes challenging environments.
   
   

9. Consumer Trust
   Establish credibility through transparent operations, fair payouts, and responsible gaming initiatives.
   
   

10. Language and Communication
    Localise content and customer service to regional languages for effective engagement.
    
    

11. Advertising and Marketing Restrictions
    Understand limitations on promotions and adapt marketing strategies to meet local guidelines.
    
    

12. Tax Policies
    Analyse local tax structures for sports betting revenue, which can vary significantly across jurisdictions.
    
    

13. Partnership Opportunities
    Explore collaborations with local businesses or media outlets to build brand presence and trust.
    
    

14. Long-term Sustainability
    Invest in community development and responsible gambling to align with expectations and build a positive reputation.
    
    

15. Local Workforce and Customer Service
    Hiring and training a local team familiar with regional practices and consumer behaviour, with localised customer service to address user needs promptly.
    
    

16. Infrastructure Challenges
    Address potential challenges like inconsistent electricity or limited access to high-speed internet in certain regions.
    
    

17. Political and Social Stability
    Evaluate the political climate and social attitudes towards gambling in the target market, as these can impact regulatory changes and consumer acceptance.
    
    

18. Scalability of Operations
    Plan for growth by ensuring your platform and infrastructure adapt to increasing demand and jurisdictional expansion.

Best Practices for Successful Market Entry

To thrive in Africa’s sports betting market, operators must approach each nation with a tailored strategy that reflects its unique cultural, economic, and regulatory terrain. To start, it is important to note that local partnerships have the power to be transformative and not just beneficial, offering insights into consumer preferences while easing the complexity of compliance. Sustained success hinges on localisation, from integrating widely used mobile payment systems like M-Pesa to crafting platforms that resonate with local languages and sporting interests.

Transparency and trust-building are also key factors. Operators who prioritise fair play, timely payouts, and responsible gambling initiatives position themselves as industry leaders, earning the confidence of both regulators and players. Scalability must also be a central element of strategic planning. Markets with uneven infrastructure demand technology that adapts to varying conditions. By viewing Africa not as a single opportunity but as a collage of interconnected markets, operators can unlock untapped potential and pave the way for continued and sustainable growth.

From localisation to scalability, Altenar’s sports betting technology is a perfect fit for Africa’s unique markets. Trust our expertise to lead expansion and schedule your personalised demo now.

Disclaimer

This information is not intended to be legal advice and is solely extracted from open sources. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal advice and Altenar does not accept any liability concerning its use.