If you live in Africa and love football, you’ve probably heard someone say, “I just want to stake small and win big.”
Sports betting has quietly become part of our everyday conversations, especially among young people. From street corners to mobile phones, betting apps are everywhere. For some, it’s just fun, while for others, it feels like hope in tough economic times. But not all African countries bet the same way; some have a much higher number of people involved than others. 
According to GeoPoll’s April 2025 Betting in Africa survey, here are the top six African countries with a higher proportion of sports betting.
1. South Africa (90%)
South Africa tops the list when it comes to betting participation. About 9 out of 10 adults are involved in some form of betting or gambling. It’s not considered something strange or hidden there because it’s been part of the system for years. People bet on football, rugby, horse racing, and more.
2. Uganda (87%)
Uganda is one of the biggest betting countries in East Africa. Around 87% of adults, especially young people, are involved in betting. Walk through busy streets and you will see betting shops almost everywhere.
Most people bet even a little money on football, hoping that one lucky ticket will change their economic situation. Like in every other African country, betting feels like a quick escape from financial stress for people who indulge in it.
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3. Kenya (79%)
Kenya is famous for mobile betting. What really pushed betting in Kenya is mobile money like M-Pesa. You don’t need a laptop or even a smartphone; a simple phone can do the job. Because it’s fast and easy, betting has become part of everyday life for many Kenyans, especially football fans.
4. Nigeria (71%)
Nigeria has the largest number of betting youths in Africa, with over 70% participation among adults, both male and female. Betting shops can be found in almost every street. Betting websites are also Nigerians’ top searches on Google.
Many young Nigerians see betting as a way to cope with unemployment and the rising cost of living. European football leagues like the Premier League drive most of the betting activity, and almost everyone knows someone who places bets regularly.
5. Ghana (56%)
In Ghana, betting is popular but a bit more relaxed compared to countries like Nigeria or Kenya. Football betting is the main focus, especially among young men. With more online platforms and mobile access, betting continues to grow, even though it’s not as aggressive or intense as in some other African countries.
6. Tanzania (56%)
Tanzania is quietly becoming a major betting country. Half of one per cent of adults are involved in sports betting. Football is the main attraction, and mobile phones make betting very easy. It’s usually seen as fun at first, but for some, it slowly turns into a regular habit tied to money struggles.
Do you bet often as well?
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