Tanzania’s Gaming Board recently announced the near doubling of the country’s gambling revenue over the past four years versus the preceding period, leading it to surpass $100 million.
Online gambling has grown in popularity in Tanzania due to its availability and convenience. Online betting platforms allow consumers to bet from anywhere, around the clock, and this has made them the preferred choice for gamblers looking to place bets or play games of chance when it suits them.
The increased availability of smartphones and greater internet connectivity have enabled more Tanzanians to access online betting platforms, allowing them to participate in various forms of highly popular online gambling, such as sports betting and casino games.
Social media influencers are also playing a considerable role in popularising online betting by increasing consumers’ exposure to various promotions and offers, and ensuring that gambling in Africa outpaces many international markets in terms of growth.
Looking for the best online casinos and the most generous welcome bonuses in Tanzania? Check out our 2025 recommendations!
The Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) has made a major announcement regarding its gambling revenue stats. The industry has collected more than TZS 260.21 billion ($100 million) over the past four years, almost double the TZS 131.99 billion ($50 million) recorded during the previous period.
Addressing a press conference organised by the Treasury Registrar’s Office in Dar es Salaam, GBT Acting Director General, Olesumayan Daniel, praised the industry’s increasing economic importance, saying that gambling had created more than 30,000 direct and indirect jobs.
He added that gambling had significantly boosted state coffers, allowing Tanzania to rake in millions in taxes ($355 million), which had supported key public services and infrastructure projects.
The Acting Director General also stressed the importance of responsible gambling, reiterating that betting should be viewed as entertainment, rather than a source of income and urged players to exercise self-discipline and to protect themselves from undue financial risk.
The industry continues to contribute significantly to the country’s sporting codes, with 5% of GBT’s revenues allocated to the National Sports Council (BMT). Between TZS 44 billion ($17 million) and TZS 53 billion ($20 million) has been disbursed to youth programmes, stadium improvements and other initiatives.
One of the year’s notable developments was the issuing of a National Lottery licence to Ithuba Tanzania Limited. The company is 40% locally owned and 60% South African investment to the tune of more than $20 million. It officially began operating in April of this year.
GBT has now licensed 62 companies, which offer a total of 8,549 casino games. With new investments of TZS 66.7 billion ($25 million) flowing into the sector over the past two years, well-established names in the iGaming industry, such as Bet365, 1xBet and LEON, have launched operations in Tanzania, which is a significant step for the company’s global expansion.
Daniel noted, however, that unlicensed operators remained a challenge, compelling ongoing enforcement efforts to protect the vulnerable and prevent underage gambling.
According to the GBT, the gambling sector’s phenomenal growth clearly demonstrates the increasing economic role of regulated gambling and its enormous potential to drive investment, employment opportunities, as well as social development in Tanzania.
Slots
Roulette
Poker
Blackjack
Baccarat
Craps
Approved
Hot
