Biggest African Gambling Markets in 2025

The African Gambling Market: Trends and Expansion

Africa’s gambling industry is unique due to its reliance on mobile-first betting platforms. Unlike Europe and North America, where desktop and land-based gambling still play a significant role, Africa’s smartphone penetration has made mobile betting the dominant form of gambling. The continent has seen a surge in online sports betting, particularly on football matches from leagues like the English Premier League and La Liga.

Another key factor contributing to growth is cryptocurrency betting. Many African gamblers prefer using Bitcoin and other digital currencies to avoid high banking fees and restrictions on cross-border payments. This trend is expected to accelerate as more crypto-friendly casinos and sportsbooks enter the market.

While online gambling is growing, land-based casinos remain popular in some countries, particularly in South Africa and Ghana, where licensed casinos attract both domestic and international players.

With a projected CAGR of 5.81% until 2029, the continent is becoming a major player in the global gambling market. Some countries have structured regulations, while others operate in a legal gray area, allowing international operators to tap into an underserved audience.

1. South Africa

South Africa dominates the African gambling landscape, accounting for more than half of the continent’s total gambling revenue. The National Gambling Act of 2004 regulates the industry, permitting licensed sports betting but prohibiting online casinos. However, many South Africans bypass these restrictions by gambling on offshore casino sites, which remain difficult to regulate.

The country boasts 39 land-based casinos, offering a variety of gaming options. Horse racing is also a significant part of South Africa’s gambling culture, with major racetracks such as Greyville, Turffontein, and Kenilworth hosting internationally recognized events.

Sports betting continues to thrive, with millions of bettors placing wagers on football, rugby, and cricket. The English Premier League is one of the most-wagered-on competitions.

As regulations evolve, the potential legalization of online casinos in South Africa could unlock even more revenue, making the country even more attractive to operators.

2. Nigeria

With over 230 million residents, Nigeria is Africa’s second-largest gambling market and home to more than 100 million active bettors. The country’s passion for sports betting is unmatched, particularly in football. Many Nigerian gamblers place bets on European leagues, especially the English Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

Despite the presence of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, illegal betting platforms remain a significant issue. Many Nigerian bettors use unlicensed gambling sites, raising concerns about fraud and tax evasion.

However, Nigeria remains an attractive market for both local and international gambling companies. Mobile penetration is high, and the demand for mobile betting apps continues to rise. If regulatory improvements are made, Nigeria’s gambling industry could become even more lucrative.

3. Kenya

Kenya has cemented itself as Africa’s third-largest gambling market, despite being the seventh-most populous country on the continent. The key driver of this success is mobile sports betting, which has surged due to the widespread use of M-Pesa, Kenya’s leading mobile money platform.

More than 7 million Kenyans have registered sportsbook accounts, making it one of the most engaged gambling populations in Africa. Football betting leads the industry, with local and international matches drawing the most action.

However, recent tax increases on winnings—rising from 7.5% to 12.5%—have led some operators to exit the market. Despite this, the demand for online sports betting remains high, and Kenya is expected to remain a key player in Africa’s gambling industry.

4. Ghana

Ghana is known for having one of the most structured gambling industries in Africa, thanks to regulations dating back to the 1960s. Despite its relatively small population of 34 million, Ghana’s gambling sector is thriving due to its clear legal framework and diverse betting options.

Ghanaian gamblers enjoy sports betting, national lotteries, slot machines, and horse racing. The country is also home to seven land-based casinos, with five located in Accra, and the rest in Kumasi and Tema.

A growing trend in Ghana is cryptocurrency gambling, with bettors increasingly using Bitcoin and Ethereum for deposits and withdrawals. The combination of clear regulations and innovative payment solutions positions Ghana as an attractive market for gambling operators.

5. Uganda

Uganda is a rising star in Africa’s gambling industry, with sports betting leading the charge. The country’s population of 48 million is embracing mobile betting, thanks to affordable smartphones and increasing internet access.

Football remains the primary focus of Ugandan gamblers, with many following European leagues and local competitions. The government has doubled the number of registered betting operators, signaling strong industry growth.

However, concerns over gambling addiction have led to discussions about stricter regulations. Despite this, Uganda’s low-cost mobile betting ecosystem continues to attract both bettors and operators.

The Future of Gambling in Africa

Africa’s gambling industry is set for continued expansion, with several key trends shaping its future:

• Cryptocurrency betting will allow African players to bypass banking restrictions.
• Mobile-first betting dominance will continue as smartphone penetration increases.
• Regulatory improvements will help governments legalize and regulate gambling.
• International operators are showing increasing interest in Africa as a high-growth frontier.

Africa’s gambling market is experiencing an unprecedented rise, driven by mobile technology, regulatory shifts, and increasing consumer interest. Countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and Uganda are leading the way, offering huge revenue potential for local and international operators.

With a projected CAGR of 5.81% until 2029, the continent is becoming a major player in the global gambling market.