Betting Boom: Nigeria Leads Africa’s Gambling Surge

Nigeria is leading Africa’s sports betting industry, with more than 168 million people placing bets in 2025. This number represents about 71 percent of the country’s 237 million population, making it the biggest betting market on the continent. 

Walking through Nigerian cities, many betting shops line the streets, showing how betting is part of everyday life.

South Africa follows with the highest participation rate of 90 percent among its population of nearly 65 million, where regulation and cultural acceptance have helped normalize betting.

“The effective regulations in South Africa create a safe environment that encourages betting participation,” experts say.

Kenya, with around 45.5 million active bettors out of 57.5 million people, has a 79 percent participation rate. “Kenya’s betting scene is vibrant and growing, driven by a youthful population that embraces sports and betting alike,” analysts note.

Uganda ranks high with an 87 percent participation rate among 51.4 million people. Around 44.7 million Ugandans regularly engage in sports betting. “Despite its smaller size, Uganda’s betting culture is strong and continues to expand rapidly,” observers say.

Tanzania is seeing a steady rise in betting activity, especially in urban areas. Its participation rate is 56 percent, but the market shows potential for growth among younger populations. “Young urbanites in Tanzania are fueling the betting market’s expansion,” industry watchers report.

Ghana has nearly 20 million bettors with a 56 percent participation rate. Ghana’s betting interest is increasing. “Ghana’s sports betting market is growing fast, signaling new opportunities for operators and bettors alike,” experts added.

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