African Gambling Sector: Continent’s Key Growth Hubs

Africa’s online gambling sector is experiencing rapid development. iGB and SmartSoft have carried out research to examine and project market trends. They estimate that the combined digital betting and gaming revenue will hit $12.7 billion by the end of 2026 and $19.4 billion by 2030, marking a 52.76% increase.

In the region, domestic operators are expanding more quickly than offshore brands, indicating a clear trend towards the reinforcement and maturation of the online segment.

Online Gaming Vertical: General Indicators

Since 2025, the growth of the regional sphere has accelerated significantly due to:

• enhanced mass Internet and mobile access;
• improved payment infrastructure;
• clear regulatory frameworks.

An analysis of total gross revenue indicates that the digital gambling sector is not only developing quickly but also becoming more structurally intricate and concentrated.

Such a dynamic is evident throughout the region:

1. The RSA. South Africa's entertainment market has become a leading example. By 2030, local operators are projected to generate over $5 million in GGR.
2. Nigeria. While holding the potential to become the continent’s 2nd-largest hub, the jurisdiction currently faces legal uncertainties. Industry earnings have declined sharply since 2022.
3. Ghana. With 35 million residents, the country is considered one of the fastest-growing and most promising markets.
4. Cameroon. Recently emerging as a notable competitor, the state shows exciting long-term potential.

Giorgi Shaverdashvili, SmartSoft’s Regional Head of Commercial, pointed out that Nigeria has always provided strong investment opportunities. However, the recent sharp devaluation has greatly diminished the population’s purchasing power, while issues with payment infrastructure have further worsened the situation.

The expert regards Ghana as the most stable destination. Uganda is noteworthy for its broad mobile coverage, and Cameroon is known for its rich football culture. These jurisdictions have long been overlooked, but market representatives are now witnessing an upturn, albeit a belated one, yet entirely natural.

iGaming Segments in Figures

On the continent, 3 main gambling sectors are clearly visible:

1. Onshore operators. This segment is expanding faster and more successfully than foreign options. By 2030, local revenue is expected to hit $14.2 billion, a whopping 184% upsurge from 2023. Key growth areas are currently concentrated in the RSA, where turnover could reach $4.3 billion in the upcoming years.
2. Digital sports betting. This vertical remains Africa's largest commercial sector. By 2030, its revenue is projected to increase by 158%, from $5.8 billion in 2023 to nearly $15 billion. Nigeria continues to be the primary player. The jurisdiction stays the continent’s leader despite a significant decrease in 2024.
3. Online gaming services. The expected growth volume is from $1.4 billion in 2023 to $4.5 billion by 2030. Ghana currently attracts the most interest. Domestic operators are anticipated to earn around $634 million by the end of this decade.

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