Ethiopian authorities have confirmed that no licensed bookmakers currently operate within the country. The national regulatory body warned residents against using unauthorized betting platforms, citing risks of financial loss and personal data exposure.
Current Regulatory Stance
The agency recently reiterated its position on the gambling sector, emphasizing that all previously licensed operators have been removed from the market. Officials advised the public to avoid unregulated websites, noting that transactions on these platforms lack legal protection and may compromise user information. Government representatives have indicated that discussions regarding a regulated betting framework may resume at a later date. Until any policy adjustments are announced, all sports betting operations remain prohibited under current legislation.The present restriction follows a comprehensive enforcement campaign launched at the end of 2025. During that period, authorities detained 24 individuals affiliated with betting companies on suspicion of tax evasion and unlawful financial transactions. The regulator initially suspended 22 operating licenses before revoking all remaining permits in December 2025, which effectively terminated the legal betting market.