In Summary
• The sports betting industry in Africa has experienced rapid growth, driven by increased internet access and mobile penetration, making it a significant part of the entertainment landscape.
• Leading companies like 1xBet, Bet9ja, and SportPesa dominate the market through strategic partnerships, diverse betting options, and innovative technologies such as live streaming and mobile-first approaches.
• The article highlights the top 10 sports betting companies in Africa for 2025, showcasing their impact on the industry, unique market strategies, and contributions to sports development across the continent.
Deep Dive!!!
Friday, 07 November 2025 – The sports betting industry in Africa has witnessed significant growth over the past decade, driven by increasing internet penetration, mobile access, and a rising demand for entertainment. In 2025, this booming sector continues to attract millions of players across the continent, with top companies offering diverse and innovative betting options tailored to local preferences. The rise of sports betting platforms has not only reshaped the landscape of entertainment in Africa but also played a vital role in boosting economic activities, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to sports development.
Among the industry leaders, companies like 1xBet, Bet9ja, and SportPesa stand out for their extensive operations, impressive market reach, and cutting-edge technology. These companies leverage aggressive marketing, strategic partnerships, and sponsorship deals with major sporting events and football clubs to enhance their visibility and attract millions of bettors. As African economies continue to evolve, sports betting companies are also integrating advanced features like live streaming, esports, and mobile-first approaches, providing a seamless and engaging experience for users.
This article delves into the top 10 sports betting companies in Africa in 2025, highlighting their impact on the industry, their innovative offerings, and the strategies driving their growth. With each company having a distinct approach to market penetration and customer engagement, they collectively shape the future of sports betting in Africa, catering to a growing audience of diverse bettors who seek excitement, convenience, and the thrill of competition.
10. BetKing
Founded on February 22, 2018, BetKing has rapidly ascended to prominence within Africa's sports betting industry. Established by South African entrepreneur Byron Petzer and Nigerian gaming expert Adekunle Adeniji, the company was conceived under KingMakers, a digital entertainment and gaming conglomerate. Headquartered in Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria, BetKing has expanded its operations to include Kenya, Ghana, and Ethiopia, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the African market.
BetKing offers a comprehensive suite of betting options encompassing traditional sports like football, basketball, and tennis, as well as virtual sports and casino games. The platform is renowned for its user-friendly interface, competitive odds, and rapid payout systems, which have significantly enhanced the betting experience for users across its operational territories. In 2024, BetKing partnered with Genius Sports to bolster its live betting offerings, providing real-time data and in-play content for major football leagues, thereby enriching the user experience.
Beyond its digital footprint, BetKing has made substantial contributions to the economies of the countries it operates in. Under the leadership of Managing Director Gossy Ukanwoke, the company has directly created over 300 jobs and facilitated the establishment of more than 80,000 betting shops, thereby generating significant employment opportunities and fostering economic growth in local communities.
In 2020, MultiChoice, a South African media and entertainment conglomerate, acquired a 20% stake in BetKing, signaling confidence in the company's growth trajectory and strategic direction. This partnership has enabled BetKing to leverage MultiChoice's extensive media reach to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement across Africa. Looking ahead, BetKing aims to continue its expansion across the continent, focusing on innovation, customer satisfaction, and community development to solidify its position as a leader in the African sports betting industry.
9. 888Starz
Established in 2020, 888Starz has swiftly positioned itself as a formidable player in Africa's sports betting industry. The company operates under the umbrella of Evoke plc, a British online gambling entity formerly known as 888 Holdings Limited. Evoke plc, founded in 1997 by Israeli entrepreneurs Avi and Aaron Shaked, along with Shay and Ron Ben-Yitzhak, has a long-standing presence in the global gambling market. 888Starz, while a newer addition, leverages the extensive experience and infrastructure of its parent company to cater to the burgeoning African market.
888Starz distinguishes itself by offering a diverse array of betting options, encompassing traditional sports, esports, virtual sports, and even niche markets like politics. The platform provides competitive odds, a user-friendly interface, and a seamless mobile experience, catering to Africa's tech-savvy audience. Notably, 888Starz supports cryptocurrency payments, aligning with the growing trend of digital currency adoption across the continent. The platform's commitment to innovation is further evidenced by its mobile applications, which enhance accessibility for users on the go.
While 888Starz operates under the global framework of Evoke plc, it has established a significant presence in several African countries. The company's operations are particularly prominent in markets such as Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, where sports betting enjoys widespread popularity. 888Starz has tailored its offerings to meet the specific preferences and regulatory requirements of these regions, ensuring compliance and fostering trust among local bettors.
Despite being a relatively new entrant, 888Starz has demonstrated impressive growth and adaptability in the competitive African sports betting market. The company's strategic focus on diverse betting markets, technological integration, and regional customization positions it well for sustained success. As the African sports betting landscape continues to evolve, 888Starz's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction will likely propel it to greater heights in the coming years.
8. FafaBet
FafaBet is a prominent online sports betting platform that has gained significant traction in the African market. Established in 2021 under TaichiTech Limited, a UK-based company, FafaBet has rapidly expanded its operations across various African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ghana. The platform offers a comprehensive range of betting options, encompassing traditional sports, esports, and virtual sports, catering to the diverse preferences of African bettors.
FafaBet distinguishes itself by providing a user-friendly interface and a seamless mobile experience, reflecting its mobile-first approach. The platform supports a wide array of sports markets, including football, basketball, tennis, and cricket, along with niche options like esports and politics. FafaBet also offers attractive promotions, cryptocurrency payment options, and a secure betting environment, ensuring accessibility and convenience for users across the continent.
While FafaBet is headquartered in the United Kingdom, it has established a significant presence in several African countries. In South Africa, FafaBet has been licensed by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, allowing it to operate legally and offer its services to South African bettors. The platform has also tailored its offerings to meet the specific preferences and regulatory requirements of other African markets, ensuring compliance and fostering trust among local users.
Despite being a relatively new entrant in the African sports betting industry, FafaBet has demonstrated impressive growth and adaptability. The company's strategic focus on mobile accessibility, diverse betting markets, and innovative payment solutions positions it well for sustained success in the competitive African market. As the demand for online sports betting continues to rise across the continent, FafaBet's commitment to customer satisfaction and technological advancement will likely propel it to greater heights in the coming years.
7. Betway
Founded in 2006 by a group of entrepreneurs led by Richard Akitt, Betway has evolved into a leading global online gambling company. Headquartered in Gżira, Malta, Betway is a subsidiary of Super Group, a company that has significantly expanded its footprint across various continents, including Africa. In 2021, Betway reported a net gaming revenue of $1.52 billion, marking a 36% increase from the previous year, underscoring its robust growth trajectory.
Betway offers a comprehensive range of betting options, including sports betting, online casino games, poker, and bingo. The platform is renowned for its user-friendly interface, competitive odds, and live betting options, catering to the diverse preferences of African bettors. Betway's robust mobile applications ensure accessibility for users across the continent, aligning with the growing trend of mobile-first engagement in the African market.
While Betway's global headquarters are located in Malta, the company has established a significant presence in Africa, with regional offices in Cape Town, South Africa. The company operates in multiple African countries, including South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Zambia, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, and Botswana. In Botswana, Betway achieved a remarkable 95% market share within months of its launch, highlighting its effective market penetration strategies.
Betway's strategic focus on localized offerings, mobile accessibility, and diverse betting markets has positioned it as a dominant force in the African sports betting industry. The company's commitment to responsible gaming and customer satisfaction has fostered trust among local bettors. With continued expansion and adaptation to regional preferences, Betway is well-positioned to maintain its leadership role in the evolving African sports betting landscape.
6. 22Bet
22Bet, launched in 2017, is a prominent online sports betting platform owned by TechSolutions Group N.V., headquartered in Curacao. The company has rapidly expanded its operations across Africa, establishing a strong presence in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia. In Nigeria, 22Bet has been licensed by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, ensuring compliance with local regulations and fostering trust among bettors. The platform offers a comprehensive range of betting options, including traditional sports, esports, and virtual sports, catering to the diverse preferences of African users.
22Bet distinguishes itself by providing a user-friendly interface and a seamless mobile experience, reflecting its mobile-first approach. The platform supports a wide array of sports markets, including football, basketball, tennis, and cricket, along with niche options like esports and politics. 22Bet also offers attractive promotions, cryptocurrency payment options, and a secure betting environment, ensuring accessibility and convenience for users across the continent.
While 22Bet is headquartered in Curacao, it has established a significant presence in several African countries. In Nigeria, the company operates under a license from the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, allowing it to offer its services legally and securely. The platform has also tailored its offerings to meet the specific preferences and regulatory requirements of other African markets, ensuring compliance and fostering trust among local bettors.
Despite being a relatively new entrant, 22Bet has demonstrated impressive growth and adaptability in the competitive African sports betting market. The company's strategic focus on mobile accessibility, diverse betting markets, and innovative payment solutions positions it well for sustained success in the African market. As the demand for online sports betting continues to rise across the continent, 22Bet's commitment to customer satisfaction and technological advancement will likely propel it to greater heights in the coming years.
5. Melbet
Established in 2012, Melbet is an international gaming company that has rapidly expanded its footprint across Africa. The brand has earned the trust of over 1 million players, offering a diverse range of sports and betting options. Melbet operates in several African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zambia, providing a comprehensive betting experience to its users.
Melbet distinguishes itself by offering a wide array of betting markets, covering over 50 sports with competitive odds. The platform is known for its attractive bonuses, live streaming services, and a variety of payment methods, including local options tailored to African users. Melbet's user-friendly interface and robust mobile applications ensure accessibility and convenience for bettors across the continent.
While Melbet is licensed by the Curacao Gaming Control Board, it has established a significant presence in Africa through local partnerships and operations. In Nigeria, Melbet is operated by OTRADA Hospitality Limited, which holds a sports betting license issued in November 2020. The company has also secured local licenses in countries such as Côte d'Ivoire, Cameroon, Senegal, Kenya, Congo, and Burundi, enabling legal operations and fostering trust among local bettors.
Melbet's strategic focus on localized offerings, mobile accessibility, and diverse betting markets has positioned it as a formidable player in the African sports betting industry. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative features has contributed to its growing popularity among African bettors. As the demand for online sports betting continues to rise across the continent, Melbet's expansion into new markets and continuous enhancement of its platform will likely propel it to greater heights in the coming years.
4. Stake
Founded in 2017 by Australian entrepreneurs Ed Craven and Bijan Tehrani, Stake has rapidly ascended to become a significant player in the global online gambling industry. Operating under the umbrella of Medium Rare N.V., a company registered in Curaçao, Stake has established a robust presence across Africa, particularly in countries like Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, and Ghana. The platform's appeal lies in its extensive sportsbook, which includes traditional sports, esports, and virtual sports, catering to a diverse African audience.
Stake distinguishes itself by offering a wide array of betting options, including live betting, in-play statistics, and live streaming of major sporting events. The platform supports over 20 cryptocurrencies, allowing users to deposit and withdraw funds seamlessly. Additionally, Stake provides various promotions, such as weekly challenges and VIP programs, enhancing user engagement. The mobile-optimized website ensures a smooth betting experience for users across the continent.
While Stake's corporate headquarters are based in Curaçao, the company has tailored its operations to meet the specific needs of the African market. In Nigeria, for instance, Stake has partnered with local payment providers to facilitate easy transactions for users. The platform's localization efforts include offering customer support in multiple African languages and currencies, ensuring accessibility and convenience for bettors.
As of 2024, Stake reported a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of $4.7 billion, with over 25 million users worldwide. The company's rapid growth is attributed to its innovative approach, including minimal Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements and a focus on cryptocurrency transactions. Looking ahead, Stake aims to expand its footprint in Africa by enhancing its mobile offerings and exploring new markets. However, the company must navigate regulatory challenges, particularly in countries with stringent gambling laws, to sustain its growth trajectory.
3. SportPesa
SportPesa was established in 2014 by a consortium of Kenyan and international investors, including Ronald Karauri, who serves as the CEO. The company operates under Pevans East Africa Ltd. While the exact valuation of SportPesa is not publicly disclosed, the company has demonstrated significant financial success, with its founders reportedly earning over $65 million in dividends between 2015 and 2019.
Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, SportPesa has expanded its operations to several African countries, including Tanzania, South Africa, and Nigeria. The company offers a wide range of betting options, including sports betting, live betting, and online casino games. SportPesa has also been involved in various community initiatives and sponsorships, further strengthening its brand presence and customer loyalty.
Despite facing regulatory challenges, such as the suspension of its operating license in Kenya in 2019, SportPesa has demonstrated resilience. The company resumed operations in Kenya in 2020 and has continued to expand its presence across the continent. In 2025, SportPesa entered into a 10-year partnership with the Football Kenya Federation, investing KSh 1.12 billion to sponsor the top-flight league, now known as the SportPesa League.
Looking ahead, SportPesa aims to further solidify its position as a leading sports betting provider in Africa. The company's commitment to innovation, community engagement, and strategic partnerships positions it well for sustained growth and success in the dynamic African sports betting market.
2. Bet9ja
Bet9ja was established in 2013 by Nigerian entrepreneurs Kunle Soname and Ayo Ojuroye, operating under the parent company KC Gaming Networks Limited. Kunle Soname serves as the chairman, while Ayo Ojuroye holds the position of CEO. Soname, a former local government chairman and sports enthusiast, has an estimated net worth exceeding $100 million. His diverse investments include ownership of Remo Stars Football Club and a stake in the Portuguese football club C.D. Feirense.
As of mid-2024, Bet9ja maintained a market share of approximately 39.7% in Nigeria's iGaming sector, with a gross gaming revenue (GGR) of around $39.6 million for the first half of the year. Despite a slight decline from previous periods, Bet9ja remains a leading player in the Nigerian market. The platform's user base is substantial, with millions of active users engaging in sports betting, virtual sports, and casino games. Bet9ja's website consistently ranks among the most visited gambling sites in Nigeria, reflecting its widespread popularity.
Bet9ja's headquarters is located at Tomi's House, 9 Funsho Williams Avenue, Ojuelegba, Lagos, Nigeria. The company operates extensively across Nigeria, with numerous retail outlets and a robust online presence. Bet9ja's platform is accessible via desktop and mobile devices, offering a user-friendly interface and a wide range of betting options. The company is licensed by the Lagos State Lotteries Board and adheres to regulatory standards set by Nigerian authorities.
Bet9ja has established itself as a prominent brand in Nigerian sports betting through strategic sponsorships and community involvement. The company has been the official sponsor of the Nigeria Professional Football League and has supported various sports initiatives. Bet9ja's commitment to responsible gaming and customer satisfaction has fostered strong brand loyalty among its users. The platform's regular promotions, competitive odds, and diverse betting options continue to attract a wide audience, solidifying Bet9ja's position as a market leader in Nigeria's betting industry.
1. 1xBet
Established in 2007, 1xBet was founded by Sergey Karshkov, alongside co-founders Roman Semiokhin and Dmitry Kazorin. Operating from Limassol, Cyprus, the company is licensed under the Curaçao eGaming License. While the exact valuation of 1xBet is not publicly disclosed, the company has secured significant sponsorship deals and expanded its global presence, indicating a robust financial standing.
1xBet has become a dominant force in the African sports betting market, with operations spanning multiple countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. The platform offers an extensive range of sports markets, including niche options like kabaddi and weather betting, catering to diverse betting preferences across the continent. In 2024, 1xBet partnered with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), sponsoring major tournaments such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the African Nations Championship (CHAN), and the CAF Champions League. This strategic partnership has significantly enhanced 1xBet's visibility and engagement with African football fans.
Renowned for its high odds, live streaming services, and a wide array of payment methods, 1xBet has invested heavily in technology to provide a seamless user experience. The platform is accessible in over 60 languages and supports multiple currencies, accommodating the diverse African market. In 2025, 1xBet was named the Best Sportsbook Operator at the SiGMA Africa Awards, recognizing its excellence in mobile betting and user interface design.
Beyond its commercial endeavors, 1xBet has demonstrated a commitment to social responsibility. In 2025, the company launched the "I Bet On Myself" campaign, partnering with the Wheelchair Cricket India Association to support para-athletes by providing modern sports wheelchairs and promoting inclusive sports. This initiative underscores 1xBet's dedication to empowering individuals and communities through sports and technology.
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