ANALYSIS: MultiChoice striving to rule Africas sports betting sector

We don’t just rate sportsbooks – we test them thoroughly, listen to community members, and highlight the ones that provide South Africans with true value. Every SportsBoom sportsbook review follows a thorough, multi-step evaluation process designed to give South African bettors trustworthy, unbiased, and up-to-date information. Ozow handles banking transactions for secure online betting in South Africa, with additional safety and security measures. E-Wallets like Zapper or Samsung Pay offer a digital alternative for people who don’t want to share banking details.

Several reasons to put on sports in Africa through Parimatch

Fortunately, for players, the government has established laws and regulations to ensure only docile casinos and betting sites can offer their services in South Africa. More betting establishments are continuing to appear on the horizon, meaning the industry will keep broadening, according to its high demand. After all, we can make a prediction that it has come from the times of gladiator games or even earlier.

145 million active accounts versus 298 million globally, USD 1.7 billion in transactions volume versus 2.4 billion globally and 26.8 billion in https://betika.win/ transaction value versus 40.8 billion globally (4). This act established various provincial gambling boards responsible for licensing and regulating betting operators. Many African countries still have low levels of financial inclusion, with a significant proportion of the population lacking access to traditional banking services. This presents a challenge for iGaming and betting operators who rely on traditional payment methods.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), especially through UFC events, offers a distinct betting landscape compared to boxing. MMA fights can end in multiple ways such as knockout, submission, or decision. Their platform is designed for ease of use, with a straightforward interface and a mobile app that ensures you can bet on the go. What makes Betway particularly attractive is the competitive welcome bonus of up to R1,000 for new sign-ups, enhancing the initial betting experience. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and its premier league, the UFC, have captured the imagination of sports fans around the world, including in South Africa. “For economically constrained consumers however, gambling presents a particularly risky pastime fraught with potential pitfalls.

What’s more, 10bet promises to give you the best odds on your favorites, like Premier League games. That said, there are a few key things you need to keep an eye out for to make sure that the sportsbook is trustworthy and reliable. We’ve done the legwork for you, and these are our choices for placing the best sports betting in SA. If you’re wondering whether sports betting and online gambling is legal in South Africa, you’ve come to the right place.

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With the rise of MMA’s popularity, betting on these events has become a significant source of entertainment for many. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to the betting scene, knowing which platforms offer the best experience for UFC betting is crucial. It’s also worth remembering that we live in an increasingly globalised world and that there are millions of South Africans living abroad. Those South Africans will have shared their sports betting experiences with family and friends back home, further nudging them towards it as a worthwhile activity. Sportingbet accepts more than one million unique bets per day, and on some days even more than two million.

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You can use credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and even cryptocurrencies on some sites. Prior to using crypto, check whether the sportsbook supports your preferred crypto coin. You should also be aware of market fluctuations that can affect your balance. Convenience and AccessibilityOnline betting allows you to place your bets from anywhere at any time using your PC, phone, or tablet.

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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.

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• Blackjack uses the international 52-card deck without jokers, with several variations of the original game being present in several online casinos which are active in Africa.
• 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.
• You need a trusted banking method that makes deposits fast and withdrawals hassle-free.
• “Gambling is not a reliable source of income, and without careful management, it can lead to serious financial setbacks.
• The National Gambling Act 1996 introduced a system of licensed casinos as well as a single national lottery.
• The truth is that reputable online sportsbooks are happy to pay out large wins.
• Most online bookmakers have expanded their games portfolio into BetGames, Slots, Scratchcards and Live Games for an even more exciting experience.

Betting GGR rose by 14.3% in 2016, raising its share of total GGR to 19% from 17% in 2015. “Given its focus on online betting, which has stronger economics than its agency business, BetKing Nigeria has moved to number two in the online betting market. A focus on the quality of its agency network over quantity has also resulted in improved profitability through higher average wagers and revenues per agent,” said the group. In July 2024, the group launched the Aviator casino game in SA through its KingMakers unit.

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Casino gross gambling revenues declined for the first time since 1997 reflecting the tough economic conditions and the impact of illegal gambling. This report covers casino gambling, limited payout machines (LPMs), betting (horse racing, sports and fixed odds), bingo and the National Lottery. It provides a diverse selection of betting markets including moneyline bets, over/under rounds, and method of victory. This encourages more South Africans to bet safely, securely and ultimately responsibly. Of particular importance for South Africa has been the rise of mobile sports betting apps.

Read: SuperSportBet: MultiChoice launches new sports betting platform

• Casino gross gambling revenues declined for the first time since 1997 reflecting the tough economic conditions and the impact of illegal gambling.
• It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged.
• South African online sportsbooks are required to refer to the National Responsible Gambling Programme and should include tools for you to set restrictions and exclusions.
• Betway is considered the biggest bookmaker in South Africa and along with Sportingbet and Hollywoodbets.
• However, all bettors must be 18 years or older, and sportsbooks must comply with responsible gambling laws to prevent underage betting.
• Increased smartphone penetration – now at over 70% of South Africa’s population – and strong adoption of digital platforms is driving a surge in online gambling in South Africa.
• Most South African sportsbooks do this, as they fall under the regulation and oversight of a reputable gaming authority.

The development of sophisticated betting platforms and mobile betting apps in league with the Betway app has revolutionised how bettors engage with sports events. These apps offer a seamless betting experience, providing real-time odds, live streaming of events and instant transaction processing. Furthermore, integration with digital payment systems has facilitated secure and convenient transactions for bettors. Improved internet connectivity and smartphone penetration are transforming the gambling landscape, making platforms more accessible across the continent. Leading providers such as Betway are capitalizing on this trend by offering sports betting, casino games, and lotteries through mobile apps. These advancements reflect a shift toward online channels, positioning Africa as a key player in the global gambling industry.

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“The rise of AI in sports betting is particularly focused on gambling controls; limiting customer exposure to risk at an individual level. It switches our player protection approach from reactive to proactive, and allows players to receive the intervention they need in real time, not after the fact. AI features in sports betting have real-time interaction triggers, generated when the system’s AI identifies increased risk factors in a player’s behaviour. Roulette, which has been traditionally popular in land-based casinos, is now growing online. It is now the most popular casino game by revenue and players typically bet much larger amounts than other types of casino games, around R250 per bet. SiD ensures secure EFTs to the sports betting site directly from your bank account without needing a credit or debit card.

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Betting on horse racing, rugby and football, for example, was allowed and was very popular because it was the only form of gambling that was allowed. 1994 saw a new democratic government taking powered and all forms of gambling were legalized. The National Gambling Act 1996 introduced a system of licensed casinos as well as a single national lottery. The Act made provisions for the regulation of activities relating to gambling and uniform standards were introduced. The National Gambling Board was also established and became responsible for the supervision and regulation of the gambling industry. Looking ahead, the evolution of sports betting in South Africa is anticipated to continue, driven by technological innovation, regulatory reforms and shifting consumer preferences.

• If you’re a South African bettor looking for a rush and big winnings, 1Win is the place to be.
• Optimizing betting sites for mobile usage can help to guarantee a seamless betting experience by means of simple navigation.
• The higher the odds, the bigger the payout, but the lower the chances of winning.
• We highlight the best betting sites that offer you fast loading slots that are especially developed for mobile gameplay.
• Responsible gambling refers to betting within your limits, setting budgets, and knowing when to stop.
• Keep in mind that betting is all about fun and strategy, so bring the two together and access your full potential.

A substantial segment of the African public has easy access to online betting because of internet accessibility. Online betting is undoubtedly a popular entertainment form for young people in Africa. A few African countries that have emerged as major participants in the online betting industry and attracted both local and international betting companies are Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana. In the upcoming years, the African online betting industry is projected to experience rapid revenue development.

In a country where lifestyle 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.

If you’re looking to bet on your favorite South African sports, like rugby, soccer, and cricket; you’ve come to the right place. Online sports betting is live and legal in South Africa (SA), and this guide will tell you everything you need to know to get started to find new betting sites South Africa 2025. There have been numerous attempts over the years to make online casinos legal. A 2011 report found that online gambling should be made legal, but this has still not happened. There have been repeated promises from the South African government and Trade and Industry Ministers that online gambling in the form of casino games such as poker will be made legal. The Gambling Act of 1965 officially banned all forms of gambling except betting on horse racing.

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.

It’s a user-friendly platform, abundant bonuses, and diverse betting options, it’s a hub of endless opportunities. Fraudsters use stolen credit card details to top up their account, which means using illegitimate money to pocket real wins. In South Africa, banking institutions have uniform online payment systems and have implemented 3D security which requires the entering of a one-time password (“OTP”). This OTP is usually sent to the account holder’s mobile number, thus making it difficult for fraudsters to transact with stolen credit cards.

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.

There are different types of sports betting promotions, including welcome bonuses, deposit match bonuses, free bets, reload bonuses, and much more. EasybetEasyBet is licensed by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board and owned by EasyGroup. It launched in October 2024 and offers both casino and sports betting options. The brand offers a range of over 12,000 sports markets, which include soccer, rugby, horse racing, cricket, tennis, basketball, and more. You’ll also find a range of live betting options here, providing real-time updates.

Safety, trust, licensingEnsure that the sportsbook you’re signing up for is licensed. Most South African sportsbooks do this, as they fall under the regulation and oversight of a reputable gaming authority. Nevertheless, there are a few references that give us a satisfying backstory. Marshalls World of Sport is a National Group, suggesting people’s betting on Horse Racing, local or international sport and Lucky Numbers. On the assumption of pretty recent research 60 million locals of SA in the age group of 18 – 40 are active sports gamblers.

This presents an opportunity for iGaming and betting operators to enter new markets and expand their operations in the region. Something that was once the preserve of physical bookies moved first into the web and onto apps. With that shift has come a whole slew of innovations that have completely changed the online betting sector; and that growth is rapidly accelerating. Betting consists of fixed-odds bookmaking on sporting events, pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing and taking bets on the outcome of lotteries.

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.

Yes, most top-rated sportsbooks have mobile-friendly sites or even dedicated apps for iOS and Android devices, allowing you to bet on the go. Responsible gaming simply means enjoying your betting sessions, while staying in control of your budget. It’s all about understanding your limits and making sure that you never bet more than you’re willing to lose. Overall, it means not allowing your sports betting activities to affect your finances.

• We don’t tolerate half-measures at SunBet, so you can rest assured that your personal information and funds are completely secure.
• From the very beginning, the country has put rushing limitations on gambling (including sports betting) since 1673.
• We South Africans love being out and about but don’t want to miss out on watching a certain rugby or soccer match.
• Therefore, as this is apriori in our blood, I suggest our relaxing and enjoying this article.
• It is not enough to take a South African gambling site at face value, some aspects need inspection.
• However, online horse racing and sports betting are 100 % legal in South Africa in the case that the website or bookmaker holds a license to run such activities.
• Nevertheless, the winnings are not always available due to a coincidence of circumstances – you need to understand the nuances of the bookmaker’s office, understand the bets, and have a winning strategy.
• Before 1965, all forms of betting and gambling were illegal in South Africa, with the government viewing the activities as a threat to public morality.

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Its brands, Gbets.co.za and Goldrush.co.za, are capitalizing on the rapidly expanding South African online gaming market. The business has reached a scale where it benefits from the efficiencies of the online model, allowing for increased marketing investment to strengthen brand presence. Despite fierce competition, the team has focused on running the division profitably rather than solely pursuing market share. In addition to our detailed, individual bookmaker reviews, we publish comprehensive comparison guides so you can compare top South African sportsbooks side-by-side.

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The average payout percentages or margins can give you a good sense of how competitive the odds are for pre-match and live sports betting in South Africa. PayFast betting sites allow you to make payments for cards, bank transfers, mobile wallets and more. Just for signing up at this new South African sports betting site, I got a R50 free bet.