South Africa has emerged as the largest online gambling market on the African continent, recording a gross win of $5.2 billion (£3.9 billion) in 2025. The region faces regulatory challenges as the African iGaming Alliance works to address black market activity.
Market Performance and Regulation
Online platforms generated $3.26 billion, representing 63% of the total market value. This positions South Africa as the 22nd largest global market by revenue, trailing only Romania's $5.56 billion. Nigeria remains the second largest region with a $1.6 billion gross win.
The African iGaming Alliance (AIA) was established in 2025 to improve cooperation between regulators and operators. Peter Kesitilwe, CEO of the AIA, notes that policymakers are introducing excessive regulation that pushes consumers toward offshore options.
Olabimpe Akingba, AIA board member and head of responsible gaming at pawaTech, highlights rising taxes as a primary driver of black market growth. She states that levies on customers are difficult to enforce on unlicensed operators. Market projections estimate the South African online sector will reach approximately $5.9 billion by 2030.
Legal gambling has operated in the region for decades prior to the recent digital expansion. Operators such as Super Group's Betway have participated in the market since the early 2000s. Legacy brands established foundations in the continent's core markets, targeting a young population with improved cellular internet access.