Top Betting Sites in Ethiopia: Legal, Secure, and Trusted Options – Capital Newspaper

13 Oct Top Betting Sites in Ethiopia: Legal, Secure, and Trusted Options – Capital Newspaper

Visit Dash Bet Ethiopia open now and discover your next favorite game among hundreds of premium titles, all backed by secure technology, fair play guarantees, and responsible gambling casino tools that keep your entertainment safe and enjoyable. Navigating the extensive game library at Dash Bet en home couldn’t be simpler thanks to intelligent search functionality, filter options by provider and game type, and a favorites feature that lets you bookmark your top picks for instant access during future visits. These games are perfect for short breaks or when you want engaging entertainment without committing to longer gaming sessions, and they contribute to the platform’s reputation as a comprehensive online casino destination. Roulette fans can choose between European, French, and American wheels, with the European and French versions offering better odds due to the single zero configuration. Blackjack variations include European, American, and multi-hand versions, each with slightly different rules and betting options to match your playing style and bankroll.

We provide limited data here, you can get full granularity and analytics in Blask app Regarding taxation in the gaming sector, Dejene stated that the NLA only implements taxation policies set by the Ministry of Revenue. The authority will then issue a license to operators who fulfill these requirements. This has led to the suspension of several illegal gambling activities in major cities across the country. Dejene also expressed concerns about responsible gambling in Ethiopia, particularly given the country’s large youth population. “Having the license for sports betting is restricted to local people only.”

A February 2026 parliamentary discussion of a draft sports proclamation included ministerial remarks that a future legal framework may be needed, but nothing had been tabled by September 2026. There was never a licence class for casinos, online casino games or poker. Operator tax Not applicable while the ban is in force; licensed sportsbooks previously paid corporate income tax and betting-specific charges under Ministry of Revenue directives.

While some court rulings had raised expectations of regulatory changes, the official position remains unchanged. These unlicensed operators often operate without oversight, increasing the potential for fraud and harm. However, authorities have made it clear that the ban on licensed sports betting remains firmly in place.

Your selection will obviously depend on the odds offered, so you will want to examine the range of odds available before you make a decision. Bookmakers make a substantial contribution to the UK economy, generating over 700 million pounds in taxes annually and employing tens thousands of people Betting shops dominate the landscape in England, with over 9,000 in total throughout the United Kingdom. The United Kingdom sports betting industry has the most developed laws in the international gaming community; The UK has a well-established culture of sports betting.

Current Status Snapshot

South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya are all drawing plenty of attention with their sizable populations of football-loving bettors. Withdrawals are processed promptly, with clear guidelines on timing so you always know when to expect your funds. Deposits are quick and secure using local banking or e-wallet options. A welcome bonus may include extra funds or free spins on slots, while regular promotions reward ongoing play. At Chatki, bonuses are designed to give Ethiopian players extra value.

It also contains online casino games for an added fun. It brings new players some bonuses and has some special offers for the current players on the site. Consumers should look forward to safe and secure payment procedures as well as superlative customer assistance. Rather famous for the number of sports that are available and an easy-to-navigate website. These fees and contributions are meant to make sure that gambling operators help in the growth of the nation’s economy and society.

The Rise of Sports Gambling in Ethiopia

However, improved rules seemed to be needed to satisfy the public worries and to set up a proper gaming environment. For enthusiasts and stake holders, history and current landscape are crucial. We will also observe the current situation, government policies that are managing industry growth. Problem gambling awareness has grown alongside the betting boom, but formal support structures remain limited and largely dependent on individual operators taking initiative. The legal betting age in Ethiopia applies across both land-based and digital platforms, but the rules governing online casinos, sports betting sites, and lotteries are far from fully codified.

How fast are withdrawals on Ethiopian betting sites?

The current laws prohibit both online and offline gambling, making it illegal for residents to participate in any form of gambling, including sports betting, casino games, and lottery. Lack of reliable internet infrastructure and low digital literacy levels among the population also pose challenges for online gambling operators in reaching and engaging a wider audience. A key trend is the growing popularity of sports betting, with football being the most popular sport for betting. Many international online gambling platforms are not accessible in Ethiopia, but some local operators offer limited online betting services.

• For anyone curious about this space — whether considering participating for the first time or looking to make more informed choices about where and how to play — understanding the landscape clearly is the most useful starting point.
• Although some local gambling operators are already present, the market hasn’t seen the emergence of any dominant brands.
• That is a sevenfold collapse in a single month, directly traceable to the mid-December shutdown.
• These developments have created a foundational environment for the growth of the iGaming industry.
• Ethiopia’s burgeoning iGaming sector is a product of growing interest from African governments and an increasingly youthful population with increased access to mobile internet services (for example, through the introduction of online casinos).
• Whether you’re new to online casinos in Ethiopia or already experienced, Chatki gives you a safe and exciting way to enjoy gaming.
• The announcement marks one of the most sweeping regulatory crackdowns on the betting industry in Ethiopia to date, reflecting the government’s growing focus on financial regulation, consumer protection, and national security concerns.
• The current laws prohibit both online and offline gambling, making it illegal for residents to participate in any form of gambling, including sports betting, casino games, and lottery.
• Understanding the online gambling regulations in Ethiopia is essential for both operators and players to navigate the legal landscape effectively.
• We test live chat and email response times and check whether agents can actually handle Ethiopia-specific questions, such as Telebirr payment issues, ETB account problems, and local KYC or withdrawal delays.
• One sentence ended a legal betting market that had been growing rapidly for more than a decade.
• Gambling should remain a form of entertainment, not a way to make money.
• It is a current-status and safety list.
• The platform understands the importance of responsible gambling casino practices and structures its bonuses with clear terms and transparent wagering requirements.

Future Trends and Potential Changes in Ethiopian Gambling Laws

The Federal High Court recently overturned the National Lottery Administration’s suspension of Hulu Sport, reportedly finding procedural flaws in the regulator’s decision. Ethiopian business outlet Shega reported at the time of the 15 December revocations that industry sources estimated the sector had processed between ETB800 million and ETB1 billion in transactions daily before the shutdown. No official statement from ELS or NISS has explicitly linked the nationwide licence revocation to that specific arrest case. On 4 December 2025, it suspended the licences of 22 sports betting firms, citing “information received from the National Intelligence and Security Service” and the arrests as the basis for the decision. In Ethiopia, one of the world’s lower-income economies, the alleged concealment of more than $620 billion in betting-related funds represents a significant financial issue for authorities.

Ethiopia Online Gambling and Betting Market Future Outlook

This integration means that participating in online betting no longer requires access to international payment systems or bank accounts, lowering the practical barrier to entry considerably. One of the factors that has most directly enabled the growth of online betting in Ethiopia is the expansion of accessible, localised payment infrastructure. The combination of short game cycles, real-time decision-making, and social elements built into many implementations has made this format particularly engaging for younger players. Crash games — a format that has gained rapid popularity across African markets — deserve specific mention. Slots remain the most played category by volume — accessible, varied, and available in demo mode on many platforms, allowing players to familiarise themselves with a game before committing real money.

• Ethiopia doesn’t have specific tax laws for online gambling winnings.
• However, in our analysis, live casino gaming represents a smaller segment of the market compared to sports betting and standard casino games due to bandwidth requirements.
• At the time of the shutdown, the ELS provided no roadmap for a future regulated market.
• This was not a market collapse; it was a deliberate regulatory reset.
• Gambling in Ethiopia occupies a complicated space, with limited legal frameworks and patchy enforcement across the country.
• Many international platforms offer exclusive promotions — including no deposit bonuses and free spins — specifically for new users from Ethiopia.
• While private betting firms face indefinite shutdowns, the state-run lottery is not only continuing but evolving.
• Ethiopia had one of the fastest-growing betting markets in East Africa until late 2025, with dozens of licensed brands riding the Telebirr boom.
• These partnerships ensure Chatki Casino stays ahead of the curve with top-tier online casino games.
• Major cities like Addis Ababa are witnessing a surge in online gambling activities, indicating a shift in entertainment preferences amongst residents.
• Beza Girma, ELS’ CEO, told the same hearing that splitting oversight of betting between two ministries had made it difficult to control the sector, implement policy and enforce accountability.
• You have read it, it changed nothing, and it is written by people who have never watched somebody go through this.

Selecting the Best Online Casino Games in Ethiopia

Ethiopia has framed the crackdown as necessary to protect public revenue and restore trust, pointing to a tougher enforcement posture in a sector that expanded faster than oversight capacity. Ethiopia stated that the freeze will remain in place until it completes its criminal investigations, with regulators indicating that the removal of operators that fail to meet reporting and compliance obligations is intended to strengthen the legal betting market. As Ethiopia continues to modernise, casinos are set to remain a meaningful part of its entertainment landscape. Continued urban growth, improved tourism infrastructure, and rising consumer interest in modern entertainment formats suggest that casinos will remain part of the country’s evolving leisure landscape. Even though the number of casinos across the country remains limited, their influence on entertainment culture continues to grow.

Taxation:

Technically, Ethiopia has no specific laws that regulate or prohibit online gambling. Rather than offering games or taking bets directly, these websites guide players to the best and most reliable international casinos and bookmakers that accept users from Ethiopia. The authorities might consider adopting new technologies for monitoring and compliance, alongside fostering partnerships with legitimate, licensed operators. Legally, the decision to protect the details of the firms involved underscores the sensitivity and complexity of ongoing investigations. The Ethiopian authorities must balance strict law enforcement with creating favorable conditions for legal operators and investors to return. Such activities created a destabilizing effect on Ethiopia’s economy, driving the decision to impose stringent measures.

Status of Angola Gambling Industry

In the words of Betrush, “The new tax regime is not just a fiscal change — it’s a stress test for Ethiopia’s betting industry, and only those who evolve will remain in play.” The country’s population of over 134 million, nearly half of whom are under 20, represents one of Africa’s largest potential betting markets. Once your account is created, you can immediately make your first deposit using one of the supported payment methods and claim any available welcome bonuses designed for new members. Since the app may not be available on the Google Play Store due to gambling content restrictions, downloading directly from the official source ensures you receive the authentic, secure version of the application. Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest operating system versions while maintaining support for older devices that still meet the minimum requirements. The Dash Bet application comes packed with features designed to enhance your online casino experience and provide maximum convenience for Ethiopian players.

Key Regulations and Licensing Requirements for Operators

The concerns about financial crime and money laundering are legitimate and must be addressed through strict licensing conditions, AML requirements, and enforcement mechanisms. Game developer SmartSoft launched Habesha Fortune 5 — a slot game built specifically for the Ethiopian market, with symbols representing Ethiopian coffee culture, traditional pottery, and local transport, designed in Amharic. There are no mandatory deposit limits tied to Ethiopian financial regulations, no self-exclusion registers, no requirements for operators to refer problem gamblers to local support services — because no such services have been mandated under the current vacuum.

There is currently no legal way to bet online in Ethiopia. Before the shutdown, the National Lottery Administration licensed betting companies alongside the national lottery, and the legal betting age was 18. Ethiopia’s rules changed more in one month than most markets change in a decade. Since then, no operator holds a licence to take bets in Ethiopia, a situation our newsroom examined six months into the shutdown.

Criminal Enforcement and Consumer Protection Are Not Mutually Exclusive

Maximizing the benefits of casino bonuses can significantly enhance a player’s experience and potential winnings. Consequently, testing the interface by playing a few free games can be beneficial in evaluating the platform’s usability before committing to a real money account. Selecting a reliable online casino in Ethiopia entails verifying licensing and regulatory compliance. Ensuring player safety and security is paramount at top online casinos in Ethiopia.

Current Legal Status

If a user deposits with an offshore or unlicensed operator, there may be no local regulator to handle complaints, payment disputes, voided bets, or frozen accounts. Even if some betting websites remain reachable, players should not treat them as locally licensed or protected by Ethiopian regulation. This means there are currently no legal online betting sites to recommend for Ethiopia. Before the full shutdown, the regulator had already suspended 22 betting operators as part of a wider investigation.

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Harifsport focus almost entirely on football betting.Harifport review Bet251 is one of the most developed betting sites and they focus mainly on football betting. If yes, then there isn’t any better platform to settle at other than Score Bet. For players based in Ethiopia who love playing the game online, one of the very best platforms to settle at is Aviator251.com.

The site is designed to load quickly, with games optimised for smaller screens. Slots are the most popular choice, offering quick gameplay and exciting bonuses. Unlike many foreign casinos, Chatki is designed with Ethiopia in mind, so you can trust the platform to meet your needs. With a huge selection of games, exciting promotions, and security you can rely on, it’s the ultimate destination for online casino play. Whether you’re new to online casinos in Ethiopia or already experienced, Chatki gives you a safe and exciting way to enjoy gaming.

Illegal/offshore betting sites in Ethiopia

The platform has also incorporated mobile payment structures for its users, making it easy for the ordinary bettor to access services easily. 22Bet quickly built its reputation as a trusted betting site in Ethiopia due to its tailored features and variety of betting markets. The 1xBet platform is easy to use and comes with an eye-catching interface.

The Rise of Mobile Gambling in Ethiopia

• Gamble responsibly by placing smaller bets and make decisions based on information instead of emotions.
• Emergency notices outline potential identity theft and loss of funds for consumers who choose to gamble with offshore operators.
• This Dash Bet review will guide you through everything you need to know about what makes this platform stand out in the competitive online gambling landscape.
• We will also observe the current situation, government policies that are managing industry growth.
• At the moment QwickBet only offers sports betting and jackpots, but there is a high likelihood that more betting products will be added in the near future.
• The country's large population (over 120 million people) creates substantial market potential despite relatively low per-capita participation rates.
• Visa and Mastercard are listed but many Ethiopian-issued cards carry international transaction blocks, so mobile wallets remain the practical default.
• Currently, most online casinos available to Ethiopian players are international platforms rather than locally-based ones.
• But the brands that remained were not the ones that had built the licensed market.
• Bonus value changes often, but 1xBet currently advertises a 100% first-deposit sports bonus up to ETB30,000 for Ethiopian users, with a minimum ETB155 deposit and rollover conditions attached.
• Initially it was only the local companies doing so, but a few betting companies operating in other African countries have recently begun to enter and set up shop in the Ethiopian market.
• Well, it’s because we found many positive attributes to talk about when we thoroughly assessed this betting platform.
• All advertising is prohibited due to the market shutdown.
• Established brands in the country include Abyssinia Bet, Powerbet.et, Betika.et, Harifsport, Axumbet, and Gihon Betting.
• Ethiopia is excluded by geo-controls on every GameBridge brand by default, with IP, address, document and payment-origin blocking, and no content or payment configuration is offered for the market.

These features collectively ensure that Dash Bet remains a safe casino environment where players can focus on entertainment while maintaining control over their gaming activities. Navigating the legal landscape of online casinos in Ethiopia requires understanding the specific regulations and compliance requirements enforced by the Ethiopian government. However, public sentiment remains mixed, with citizens and industry watchers alike wondering about the future landscape of gaming in the country. Strict regulation and enforcement are also required to ensure compliance with existing laws.

Mobile Payment Casinos Sites in Ethiopia

• Laws are designed not only to foster a safe and ethical gaming environment but also to boost investor confidence in this burgeoning market sector.
• The trajectory of Ethiopia’s gambling industry will likely influence broader regional trends in East Africa, where growing digital markets and regulatory frameworks intersect.
• Engagement with stakeholders, including local governments and businesses, is essential in developing policies that maximize benefits while minimizing potential harms.
• It provides a wide range of services and features that cater to the needs of its users, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying time for all.
• Under the current regulatory framework, licensed operators may run an official lottery, conduct sports betting, and establish an area for the operation of a casino within Addis Ababa.
• Companies like MelBet are targeting Ethiopia for expansion, citing the youthful population and high digital adoption as key advantages.
• Jambobet and other industry platforms serve as key case studies in integrating regulatory compliance with consumer protection, setting precedents for emerging markets.
• There is currently no legal way to bet online in Ethiopia.
• This will ensure that sports gambling positively contributes to Ethiopian sports' development while safeguarding individuals' interests and wellbeing and the sports' integrity.
• Betika Ethiopia fuses online casino gaming with the thrill of sports wagering, and the first thing that caught my eye was the expertly balanced colour palette — easy on the eyes, no visual stress.
• Ethiopia has a few industrial base but yet with an enormous potential.
• The focus of the gaming industry will continue to be mobile-first due to the fact that over 75% of all gaming traffic in Ethiopia is generated from the use of smartphones, mainly Android operating systems.
• For iGaming operators looking to invest in the long-term market, Ethiopia’s population structure and growth potential may be far more attractive than its current per capita income.

This was the beginning of state supported gambling activities, a new era in gambling in Ethiopia. In 2021, Ethiopia issued new regulations about this rapidly growing market. Online-only operators face the biggest uncertainty, since no digital gambling licence framework currently exists.

According to information obtained by The Maltese Herald, PlayLogicIQ established itself there through Best Bet PLC, while companies and platforms connected to the network included Chatki.bet and Konjo.bet. Players appreciate a reliable platform that processes deposits and payouts quickly while keeping your Easybet login details safe and secure. With multiple payment options, fast withdrawals, and 24/7 customer support, Easybet makes sure your experience is smooth and hassle-free. Through the sportsbook you can wager on everything from football to tennis, while the online casino features classic table games and slots with bonuses and progressive jackpots. The team communicates in both Amharic and English to serve every player, and Easybet keeps things easy with clear, friendly answers.

Axumbet has made a name for themselves in the Ethiopian sports gambling scene by offering a variety of sports aside from soccer, such as, cricket, tennis, basketball, among others. Hulusport is another Ethiopian online betting site that has a strict focus on football. Bet994 is available through either agent shops or online through a fun and easy web platform. They offer unique products & features like Betika Fasta, Betika Super League, ComboBet, Live Betting & Jackpots. There is a spurt of growth in the retail betting market, with physical shops starting to make their presence felt in the country. Currently, the Ethiopian betting industry has experienced a sharp increase in growth, and this can be witnessed by the betting shops sprouting up throughout the country.

Future Prospects for iGaming in Ethiopia

VictoryBet is developed to serve Ethiopian bettors by offering a user-friendly and engaging experience that spans sports betting, casino games, virtual sports, and live betting options. WeBet Ethiopia is a rising online platform mezzo bet offering sports betting, casino games, and virtual betting experiences. More impressively, Elephantbet also employs strong safety and security protocols to ensure that players are well-protected at all times When settling on this platform, players don’t need to be wary of breaking any laws. Like most betting sites in Ethiopia, Anbessabet is focused on football betting. Moreover, the article takes time to explain in a simple step-by-step guide how you can register for an account to get the privilege of placing your bet.

• Roulette fans can choose between European, French, and American wheels, with the European and French versions offering better odds due to the single zero configuration.
• All betting and gambling activities in the country fall under the Ethiopian National Lottery Administration, the body tasked with ensuring fair practices and user protection.
• Industry stakeholders note, however, that economic constraints and sporadic enforcement pose challenges.
• Islam also has deep roots in the country, with around 34% of the population identifying as Muslim, primarily located in the eastern and southern regions.
• The move mirrors Kenya’s own betting crackdown six years ago, when authorities abruptly suspended licences and payment services, catching operators and investors off guard amid the industry’s rapid growth and popularity.
• Whether you’re a new player or a returning member, the login system at Dash Bet online ensures that your gaming experience starts smoothly every time you visit.
• Authorities insist they manage the transition effectively, though the long-term impact remains uncertain.
• Top online casinos in Ethiopia boast a wide array of games, catering to the diverse tastes of both local and international players.
• Investigators said they had uncovered a web of tax evasion, illegal financial transfers, and unlicensed operations — with funds allegedly funnelled through cryptocurrency and hawala services, and links claimed to terrorism financing and contraband networks.
• Live betting amplifies this comprehensive coverage further, allowing you to analyse a contest’s constant flux in real time.
• Companies like MelBet and other global brands are growing their presence in this region through targeted advertising and partnerships, and slowly gaining momentum against established local brands.

A game typical to Ethiopia is Carambolla, which ranked 9th among the identified 16 gambling activities and about 1 out of 5 gamblers play Carambolla. In addition, we explored various types of gambling activities adolescents engaged in. For the measure of problematic gambling using the DSM-IV-J, the set of significant univariate correlates explained 34.9 % of the variance in problematic gambling with significant unique predictions for drug abuse, psychological impacts, and social impacts (see Table 5). The questionnaires were first constructed in English and then translated to Amharic and back translated to English by native Amharic speakers to ensure the quality of the translations.

While concerns remain, Ethiopia’s youthful population stands out as a significant advantage for economic growth. Compare Ethiopia online casinos for real money play, fast withdrawals and secure ETB cashouts. Until recently, Ethiopians seeking to place bets had to settle for international sports betting sites which include some of the world's most popular brands. Enjoy fast, secure, and transparent payouts with withdrawal conditions designed just for you.

Problem gambling in adolescents: what are the psychological, social and financial consequences?

• If a user deposits with an offshore or unlicensed operator, there may be no local regulator to handle complaints, payment disputes, voided bets, or frozen accounts.
• This therefore means when players settle at the site, they can enjoy a wide variety of gambling services.
• These collaborations ensure that players have access to premium slots and online casino games with stunning graphics, engaging gameplay mechanics, and fair return-to-player percentages.
• This network witnesses the deep-rooted addiction to sports betting in Ethiopia, where those affected remain determined to place their bets despite the barriers.
• The thing is the system is designed to be corrupt and there are always ways to do what should have been legal in an illegal way so that you have to be corrupt.
• Gambling in Ethiopia is governed by the National Lottery Administration (NLA), established in the early 2000s.
• With multiple payment options, fast withdrawals, and 24/7 customer support, Easybet makes sure your experience is smooth and hassle-free.
• Beza Girma, CEO of the Ethiopian Lottery Service, confirmed the findings and said the audit was designed to establish the true state of the industry.
• However, income is generally taxable, so significant winnings could potentially be subject to income tax.
• The rules operators must follow are on the operator page.
• We provide marketers with innovative opportunities to leverage our stories and overall brand with a fiercely curious and highly engaged audience.

Games load quickly, the interface is easy to use, and payments can be managed directly from your phone. Loyalty rewards are also available, offering ongoing perks the more you play. New members often receive a welcome bonus that boosts their first deposit, giving them extra funds or free spins to explore the site. This ensures every game is random and fair, giving you confidence that the outcomes are genuine.

Highlighting the tracker's read on India's semiconductor ambitions and long-term chip-assembly export potential. Carrying the release on smartphones leading India's export potential to $94 billion by 2031, per 6WExportGTM data. Syndicating the tracker's $30.1 billion untapped-market findings, spotlighting Japan, the US and China as India's top new-potential importers. Our insights help businesses to make data-backed strategic decisions with ongoing market dynamics. As regulations become clearer and technology continues to advance, the market is expected to experience rapid expansion, with a diverse range of betting options and innovative features to attract and retain customers.

The Regulatory Landscape

For iGaming operators looking to invest in the long-term market, Ethiopia’s population structure and growth potential may be far more attractive than its current per capita income. While the figure remains low, Ethiopia has seen some of the fastest economic growth rates in Africa in recent years, particularly in agriculture, infrastructure, and financial technology. Currently, there is no roadmap for a future regulated market, as the focus remains on risk containment, halting bets and securing data. The legal framework remains somewhat ambiguous for online casino games specifically, though sports betting and lotteries are clearly legal.

• While there is a land-based casino in the country, Ethiopian gambling regulations do not account for online casinos, so licenses simply aren’t available.
• Tourism is an important sector for Ethiopia, supported by its historical sites, cultural heritage, and growing infrastructure.
• Smaller and mid-sized businesses in the industry are particularly vulnerable to the combined burden of turnover taxes, withholding requirements, and compliance costs.
• Officials have framed the decision as a containment measure focused on stopping wagering, freezing financial flows, and securing evidence for ongoing investigations.
• It is also home to virtual games that are fast becoming a mainstay in the world of sports betting.
• However, the government has shown some openness to exploring the possibilities of regulating online gambling to harness its economic potential and address the demand from players.
• Such alliances often involve cooperation with local entities to navigate compliance challenges, raise consumer awareness, and acquire players.
• Via this site, Ethiopian bettors can access both sports betting and casino games, as well as virtual games and lottery/lotto-style offerings.
• While gambling legislation in Ethiopia remains under development, the Ethiopian National Lottery Administration (ENLA) currently oversees all lottery and sports betting activities.
• In this article, we will delve into the current state of affairs regarding online betting apps in Ethiopia, focusing on Habesha bet ethiopia.
• Delivers simplified, in-depth, and holistic insights into Africa’s tax landscape.
• While there are richer markets out there, Ethiopia has plenty to offer new operators and established brands looking for a new horizon.
• NISS said the suspects were involved in a large-scale criminal network engaged in tax evasion, money laundering, and unlicensed betting activities.
• Sports betting is mostly popular with younger men aged 18–35, who bet because it’s cheap and sports betting is tied to games people watch.

MelBet, for instance, is actively expanding in Ethiopia due to the country’s youthful population and digital adoption rates. The Ethiopian iGaming sector features a mix of local and international players. To improve oversight, Ethiopia has suspended new gambling licenses while reviewing over 80 active ones. In 2025, Ethiopia updated its gambling tax laws to increase government revenue and enforce compliance. Gambling in Ethiopia is governed by the National Lottery Administration (NLA), established in the early 2000s. The country’s iGaming revenue is projected to hit $31.22 million in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.12% through 2030.