Market News

byVictory Orimemi

The sports betting market in Africa has witnessed explosive growth in recent years and 2025 is no exception. While some still view it as just another form of gambling, the reality is that sports betting has matured into a dynamic industry.

According to Business Insider, over 440 million people across six African countries are actively involved in sports betting as of early 2025.

In this listicle, TheCable takes a closer look at the six countries leading Africa’s betting revolution, based on estimated numbers of bettors derived from participation rates and population data.

Nigeria

Estimated Bettors: 168.7 million |Population: 237.5 million | Participation Rate: 71 percent

In Nigeria, it is nearly impossible to walk down a street without seeing a betting shop. With a population of over 200 million, the country has an estimated 168.7 million sports bettors and a 71 percent participation rate.

South Africa

Estimated Bettors: 58.3 million | Population: 64.7 million | Participation Rate: 90 percent

South Africa has the highest betting participation rate on the continent at 90 percent, a figure Business Insider links to effective regulation and cultural acceptance.

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Kenya

Estimated Bettors: 45.5 million | Population: 57.5 million | Participation Rate: 79 percent

Kenya is another vibrant sports betting market in Africa. With a population of around 57.5 million, Kenya records about 45.5 million estimated bettors. It has a 79 percent participation rate.

Uganda

Estimated Bettors: 44.7 million | Population: 51.4 million | Participation Rate: 87 percent

Uganda may not be the largest country on the list, but it certainly bets big. Out of a population of approximately 51.4 million, about 44.7 million Ugandans are estimated to be active in sports betting, giving it one of the highest participation rates at 87 percent.

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Tanzania

Estimated Bettors: 39.5 million | Population: 70.5 million | Participation Rate: 56 percent

In Tanzania, betting is on the rise. Although, participation rate lags behind the top four, the market is expanding fast, especially among young urban dwellers.

Ghana

Estimated Bettors: 19.6 million | Population: 35.1 million | Participation Rate: 56 percent

Ghana rounds out the top six with nearly 20 million estimated sports bettors. The market is not as large, but interest is rising fast. The country has a participation rate of 56 percent.