The hidden costs of SAs gambling crisis

In the last year alone, the continent’s fan base, who regularly follow sports broadcasts, has reached 300 million. And about half of them actively use bookmakers to turn their hobby into a way to earn extra money. Betting and gambling have been a part of human culture for thousands of years, with evidence of wagering found in ancient civilisations from China to Greece. In South Africa, the story of betting and gambling is a relatively recent one, with the horse racing industry only becoming legal in 1965. At its core, Baccarat is a game of guessing, where players place bets on which hand out of the two being dealt shall win.

Top 10 Horse Racing Betting Sites in South Africa

Lorem Ipsum has been the industry’s standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum. These results should however be interpreted with caution given the potential sensitive nature of gambling and its outcomes. Super Group’s African expansion continues to drive growth, with the region contributing 38% of total revenue in Q3, making it the company’s largest revenue generator. Strong performances in Europe and Canada offset declines in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, while its iGaming division, Spin, earned €163.5 million, with North America contributing 68% of that figure.

While mobile penetration is high, internet access is still limited in many parts of Africa. This can be a barrier to entry for iGaming and betting operators who rely on the internet to deliver their services. This report covers casino gambling, limited payout machines (LPMs), betting (horse racing and sports), bingo and the National Lottery. MultiChoice continues its push to dominate Africa’s betting market for sport and other activities, having grown its business by a tenth in Nigeria while launching one of the world’s top gambling games in SA. They make the betting experience more engaging with live betting options, allowing you to place wagers as the fight progresses. Betway is recognized as one of the premier online betting platforms for UFC enthusiasts in South Africa.

In a country where lifestyle bet and entertainment are intertwined, 1Win offers sports fans the opportunity to make thrill a part of life. With a detailed guide to 1Win, you can enhance your understanding and strategy, and with a little luck, revolutionize your gaming experience and level up your betting game. The full research paper by Robinson Mbae and Edmond Machengete explores the relationship of sports betting with digital credit, looking at how these have prevailed, the common consumer and amounts bet and borrowed.

• Despite the advancements in technology and regulatory frameworks, the sports betting industry in South Africa faces various challenges and opportunities.
• I like 10Bet because they accept major coins like BTC, ETH, LTC, and USDT instantly with low fees, offer fast crypto withdrawals, and have competitive odds on 40+ sports events.
• It provides a diverse selection of betting markets including moneyline bets, over/under rounds, and method of victory.
• While that’s undeniably important, it’s also about getting the most value for your money!
• The table below highlights the top crypto betting sites and their strengths in payments, security, and bonuses.

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Although it might not be accessible for every game, the availability of live streaming for important events lets bettors view games and make informed decisions when live betting. Statistics show that 49.4% of South Africans bet on sports from October 2021 to October 2022; around a quarter of these bettors also engage in online betting a few times a week. Given numerous options, bettors should be aware of the vital features that any website should provide. Whether your experience with betting is fresh or seasoned, understanding what to anticipate from the TOP 20 betting sites will guide your decision.

Myth 3: Sports Betting Sites in South Africa Don’t Pay Out

This is because digital credit has enabled ease of access to funds which the borrowers then use for their digital gambling. This is inferred in that the average customer profile of sports betting is young people especially men who are also the most active on digital credit platforms (11). If you are looking for the top South African sports betting sites for 2025, you have come to the right place. I have personally tried and tested all the SA bookmakers mentioned here so that I can give you first-hand feedback.

• East African Governments have also increased exponentially the taxes they levy on sport betting companies with most ranging at 15% and above (10).
• You can find more details on betting law and related topics on our Betting Law page.
• With top South African sportsbooks offering great odds and plenty of betting markets, now’s the time to get involved.
• Our next step is to examine some of the payment methods for South African betting offered by trusted South African bookmakers.
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• Many sportsbooks offer tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion options to help you do exactly this.
• While mobile penetration is high, internet access is still limited in many parts of Africa.

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Only available to South African bank account holders with internet banking access. From football and MMA to kabaddi and eSports, BetShezi offers a huge range of sports. You’ll love the live betting, bet builder, system bets, and boosted odds that make every wager more exciting and flexible. By using our website, content and services you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

• SunBet uses the latest online security protocols to ensure that your information is safeguarded against any threat, and we comply with stringent South African Financial Intelligence Centre legislation.
• As part of our analysis of the online gambling sector in Africa, we find it necessary to elaborate on the great role live casino games have played in the expansion of the industry throughout the continent.
• Online betting is undoubtedly a popular entertainment form for young people in Africa.
• Convenience and AccessibilityOnline betting allows you to place your bets from anywhere at any time using your PC, phone, or tablet.
• This presents a challenge for iGaming and betting operators who rely on traditional payment methods.
• In-play betting, in particular, allows bettors to wager on outcomes during a live sporting event, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement.
• While Tic Tac Bets’ odds are competitive, I love that I can see all the boosted odds in one place by clicking the Price Boost tab.

How we review the best online betting sites in South Africa

“Technology will keep driving advancements and will keep changing the way people think about and engage with the sector. It’s critical, therefore, that operators in the sector keep up with these trends and advancements. “While South Africa has always been a sporty nation, its international sporting profile has probably never been higher and this is especially true for women’s sports,” says Chelin. US legislators are now mulling how to regulate the sector at a national/federal level given the increased uptake in what is now estimated to be a $10bn industry.

Below, you’ll find a comparison table of the best options, along with a detailed look at what each bookmaker does well. In a bold move to expand its influence and footprint in Africa, Afrirent Holdings, a renowned investment company led by Senzo Tsabedze, is venturing into the vibrant gaming, lottery, and betting market of West Africa. With a history of success and a strong presence in South Africa, Afrirent Holdings is now setting its sights on the exciting opportunities offered by the dynamic entertainment sector in the West African region.

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The activity has been banned in Uganda by the Ugandan president (6) and religious leaders in Tanzania have called for it to be curbed (7). East African Governments have also increased exponentially the taxes they levy on sport betting companies with most ranging at 15% and above (10). Three African countries make up the largest chunk of legal gambling activity in Africa. Sub Saharan Africa lead in the number of mobile money deployments at 132 compared to global of 252. Out of the 866 million registered accounts, 395 million are in Sub Saharan Africa.

Technological innovations and mobile betting apps

The higher the odds, the bigger the payout, but the lower the chances of winning. It goes without saying, perhaps, that there are very strict controls concerning gambling activities. After all, those positive and negative aspects about gambling (referred to above) must be marshalled quite closely. The governments of several African countries have already passed regulatory acts which offer further hope for future developments and reforms taking place on the continent. Currently, Africa is considered to be one of the most promising lucrative markets in the world where the iGaming companies could expand to. So, in a world of endless possibilities for future prosperity and continuous technological growth, we should note that it was only a matter of time before Africa became a tempting prospect for iGaming companies looking to expand.

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• By using our website, content and services you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
• When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring new gaming trends.
• One of the biggest factors in the growth of sports betting is simply increased awareness and visibility.
• The National Gambling Board was also established and became responsible for the supervision and regulation of the gambling industry.
• From the early days of horse racing, it has evolved into a multi-billion-rand industry, encompassing a wide range of betting and gaming options, both online and offline.
• With our combined 25 years of experience, our team conducts South African betting site comparisons for each operator against strict performance criteria.

We can also note that a poor saving culture is among some of the attributes leading to indulgence in sport betting (14). We recommend that more study on sports betting and digital credit to be done so that more evidence of this thesis is uncovered. This ideally can be led by the regulatory authorities from the East African countries and hopefully this will encourage good credit lending practices and better consumer education.

Top SA Online Betting Sites​ For Each Sport

These bonuses add up as you keep on betting and reward you with exclusive advantages that elevate your gameplay on 1Win. Plus, with quick transaction times specifically for South Africans, the power of your bankroll is always in your hands. When it comes time to cash out, the 1Win South Africa withdrawal process ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience. Among the wide selection of events for betting, it is sports that are in trend.

Over time, strategists from all over the world have developed numerous tactics meant to maximise the winning chances of bettors. In Tanzania, online gambling has experienced rapid growth during the past couple of years, thanks to the mobile infrastructure continuously expanding. Similar to the rest of African countries, the sports betting sector makes for the vast majority of the GGR. And, according to yearly statistics, over 30% of the entire population places bets on sports every single day. It is no surprise then that Nigerians spend over $2-billion every year on sports betting. Currently, South Africa is by far the most developed online betting market on the continent, with several financial experts expecting its gross revenue to surpass $2.3-billion by the end of 2022.

• Betway, Hollywoodbets, and 1xbet are top choices because they provide user-friendly experiences, good bonuses, and many ways to bet on fights.
• Betfred has a welcome bonus in the Promotions section that includes up to R5,000 and 500 free spins.
• After 1996, it became possible for players to gamble online and horse betting is becoming increasingly popular in South Africa.
• The introduction of a regulatory framework to govern online casinos and other forms of iGaming presents the industry with an opportunity for expansion while simultaneously opening a new source of tax revenue.
• To get you started we offer a variety of articles in our betting strategy and tips section.
• The government has taken steps to address these concerns, by introducing measures to prevent underage gambling and to ensure that online betting and gaming operators are operating in a fair and responsible manner.

Bonuses are central to the appeal of 1Win, they are the bread and butter for South Africans to boost their opportunities. By using the 1Win bonus code South Africa, you can amplify your initial deposit, giving you a trusted base to explore what the platform has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a curious newbie, the full potential of 1Win can only be reached with an in-depth understanding and planning. Therefore, this article will provide practical tips aimed specifically at South African players, offering a detailed review of 1Win South Africa so that you are able to make the journey as enjoyable as the experience itself. For beginners who are just starting to devote their time to betting, betting tips are available on the Internet.

How to Bet and Win in Africa?

I’ve reviewed bookmakers based on a few important factors to see which ones offer the best range of sports and events. Mobile betting is the top choice for most punters, so I tested several sites to find the best mobile experience. Below is a comparison table of the top performers, showing you which bookmakers excel on the go. The South African betting odds and markets provided are competitive and the statistics provided have helped me make better wagers. After testing the bonuses across a few key factors, I’ve narrowed it down to 10bet, Betfred, and BetShezi as the top South African gambling sites offering the best deals and promotions. I spent some time testing out a variety of SA betting sites to get a feel for how they really perform in everyday use.

Now being able to place wagers on mobile phones there has been an explosion of the popularity of sports betting. The industry has grown impressively with the number of regular users rising (2). Currently, the gambling market in Kenya continues to be dominated by sports betting, with an estimated number of over 7-million citizens actively placing bets on online gambling services. The future of iGaming and betting in Africa is bright, with significant opportunities for growth and expansion. However, the industry also faces significant challenges that must be overcome if it is to reach its full potential. The development of clear and consistent regulatory frameworks, innovative payment solutions, and increased internet access will be key to unlocking the full potential of the iGaming and betting industry in Africa.

Make sure you sign up with a betting site that offers the best welcome bonuses! A good welcome bonus can give you extra funds to bet with, reducing your risk and boosting your chances of winning without spending more of your money. Some sportsbooks also offer free bets which allow you to test the platform before fully committing, so you can see whether they’re a right fit for you. The best bookmakers have fair terms with reasonable playthrough requirements, so you can withdraw your winnings instead of getting caught in frustrating endless rollovers. Before accepting any welcome bonus, make sure that the terms are fair and achievable, ensuring they’re aligned with what you’re comfortable with.

Experts in the field predict that the market will see a major increase, and revenue predictions for 2024 are expected to reach previously unheard-of heights. Growth in the use of online betting platforms, a growing middle class with discretionary means, and the acceptance of online gambling as a regular source of entertainment are all contributing to this trend. African countries must address regulatory challenges, establish robust frameworks, and promote responsible gambling practices to fully harness the industry’s potential.

Interestingly, there has been rapid growth in the popularity of darts, especially in 2023. This sport has grown by 75% since 2022 and is popular amongst people who are willing and able to risk larger amounts per bet, around R700 per bet. There was huge growth in the popularity of rugby in 2023, growing by almost 100% compared to the two preceding years. There was sizeable growth in the average bet size during 2023, a sign that South Africans had no doubts about the prospects of the Springboks. Football is by far the most popular sport to bet on for South Africans, although there has been little growth in popularity in recent years. The NGB’s strategic intent is to sustain and grow its regulatory capability to position South Africa as the pre-eminent jurisdiction with an exemplary and effectively regulated gambling industry.

According to 2022 statistics data, Nigeria has the largest population and gross domestic product in all of Africa. Hence, it should come as no surprise that the country is currently the most profitable gambling market in sub-Saharan Africa, which translates to an average of 7% of the continent total. And since increasingly more Africans are being facilitated access to a stable internet connection, the number of 3G and 4G networks available on the continent have doubled over the last five years. The progressive growth of economic prosperity in numerous African countries has become undeniably visible over the last quarter-century. In addition, using special deals for South Africans can increase the value of your bets. Betting on fighters like Kamaru Usman, Valentina Shevchenko, and Israel Adesanya, each with unique styles, can make your bets more thrilling.

Balancing potential returns with responsible practices and regulatory adherence could be key to success in this rapidly growing sector. Africa’s gambling market offers significant growth potential, driven by technology and a young, tech-savvy population. Investors can benefit from the expansion of online gambling in key markets like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, with companies like Super Group and Goldrush Holdings leading the charge. Betting grew by 51.2%, driven by sports and horse racing, while casinos showed marginal growth (0.1%). Taxes and levies from the industry increased by 19.2% to R4.8 billion, underscoring its growing economic impact. Throughout this article, I have demonstrated that Online betting sites in South Africa offer different betting options, bonuses, and more.