Gambling in Africa: Where Is it Legal?
There are currently 54 countries in Africa - and all of them have their own legislations and regulations when it comes to gambling. We decided to take a closer look to answer the question: in which countries can you play at online casinos and sportsbooks.
South Africa: Yes ✅
In South Africa, most forms of gambling sich as sports betting and horse racing are legal. As are land-based online casinos as well. When it comes to online casinos, the laws are a bit ambiguous but there are currently no licensed online casinos in South Africa.
However it is not forbidden for players to enjoy offshore online casinos and there are plenty of great, licensed operators for South Africans to try out.
Nigeria: Yes ✅
Nigeria has quickly become a hotspot for quality online casinos. In the National Lottery Act of 2005, gave regulatory responsibilities to the National Regulatory Commission who is in charge of granting gaming licenses to operators wishing to enter the Nigerian market.
The law also does not clearly forbid playing at offshore online casinos either. Just make sure you pick a licensed casino to ensure a safe gambling experience.
Egypt: Partially ✅/🔴
The regulations around gambling are a bit ambiguous. As Egypt is a muslim country, gambling is prohibited - but funnily not all forms of it such as the lottery and horse racing. Also tourists are allowed to play at land based casinos whereas locals are not.
Online gaming is also not legal for Egyptian players however there are plenty of players visiting international online casinos. But do bear in mind that by doing so, you would be breaking the law.
Kenya: Yes ✅
Kenya has very liberal gambling laws and all forms of gambling such as sports betting and online casinos are legal. They have their own license provider, Betting Control and Licensing Board and all gambling related activities are regulated by the Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act (BLGA).
There are also no laws against playing at licensed offshore online casinos so you can either pick a local option or try e.g. Anjouan and Curacao licensed casinos.
Somalia: No 🔴
Gambling in all of its forms is strictly forbidden and illegal in Somalia. The government is actively monitoring and preventing people from gambling and the punishment for participating in gambling activities are severe.
Ghana: Yes ✅
Ghana has a very regulated gambling market with various gambling laws that have been in place since the 1960s. Many forms of gambling such as online casinos, sports betting, slot machines, lottery are completely legal as stated in the Gaming Act 2006.
All gambling related activities are monitored by The Gaming Commission of Ghana who is also in charge of issuing gambling licenses. Playing at offshore online casinos is also not prohibited.
Disclaimer: since laws and regulations are constantly being updated in different countries in Africa, it is your responsibility to keep track of the current changes in your own region. We are only providing information, not legal advice.