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- What is the current legal status of sports betting in Ethiopia?
- How fast are withdrawals on Ethiopian betting sites?
In the short term, the decision freezes a sector that employed thousands and handled millions of birr in annual betting turnover. The move comes on the heels of earlier enforcement action. All forms of sports betting are affected — retail shops, online platforms and agent-based networks — and companies have been ordered to halt operations immediately, preserve customer and financial data, and cease offering any betting services. The decision follows directives from the federal government and was communicated in an official notice issued on Monday.
The country has a population of around 130 million, with a median age of just 19 and approximately 58% of the population between 15 and 64 — the prime demographic for betting engagement. Sports betting was legalised in Ethiopia in 2012, and the sector expanded rapidly in the years that followed, driven by a young, mobile-connected population hungry for football content. To understand what was lost — and what risks now fill the void — it helps to understand how significant the Ethiopian betting sites and market had become before the shutdown.
The site itself is beautifully and wittingly structured hence making navigation on the site pretty smooth and easy. Grandbet.et is a brand of Grand Trading PLC. With the flurry of Ethiopian gambling lovers having diverse gambling interests, Habtam took the noble decision to offer a varied range of gambling services. As we have alluded to, Bet Win Wins is a reputable gambling brand in Ethiopia.
What is the current legal status of sports betting in Ethiopia?
This wide choice lets you pick the most convenient option for your needs, guaranteeing easy deposits and swift withdrawals of your winnings. The platform supports an extensive range of payment methods, including telebirr, CBE Birr, mobile money, e-wallets, and local bank transfers. Easybet offers a variety of ways for players in Ethiopia to fund their accounts and collect winnings. Make the most of generous promotions and the Easybet bonus designed to reward loyalty and increase your chances of a big win.
How fast are withdrawals on Ethiopian betting sites?
Regulation changes; confirm the current position with local counsel before launch. Ethiopia is excluded by geo-controls on every GameBridge brand by default, with IP, address, document and payment-origin blocking, and no content or payment configuration is offered for the market. The Ethiopian Lottery Service revoked every sports betting licence effective 15 December 2025 and prohibited betting by digital, manual or any other means; casinos and online casino games were never licensed and lotteries are a state monopoly. The compliance dashboard records the exclusion with the December 2025 revocation as the reason, and the geo list is reviewed when the ELS or parliament publishes a change. The ban is in force with no licensing process, consultation or timetable for a regulated return, and the ELS has said it will hold anyone operating or facilitating betting legally accountable. Not applicable to gambling; the National Bank of Ethiopia's identity and anti-money-laundering rules apply to the payment institutions that were ordered to stop processing betting transactions.
This way you are protected to ensure that if you do have winnings, and you are not paid out, you are able to report the betting company to the ET Lottery Board. This means that there is no room for any new betting sites to enter the Ethiopian market, unless the Board increase the quote, or an existing operator decides to sell their license. Ethiopia has a growing online betting market and it will soon possibly be as large as the markets in Tanzania, Kenya and Nigeria. Citizens have been urged to report illegal betting activities, while authorities continue to warn that any operator running without a valid license will face criminal liability.
Current Status Snapshot
These tactics allowed companies to divert funds that should have been taxed. Officials explained that the suspensions were carried out under the country’s proclamation and the Sports Betting License Directive, which permits regulators to revoke or freeze a license if it is linked to fraud, criminal activity, or actions that threaten public peace and national security. Additionally, participating in illegal gambling operations also puts you at risk of being a victim of crime or other criminal activities. This includes all forms of gambling such as sports betting, online casinos, lotteries, and pool betting. The variations in the prevalence of gambling activities may also be related to the differences in cultural backgrounds, age, legal and other social aspects of the adolescent gamblers.
Common myths about gambling in Ethiopia
With 10 approved betting companies offering sportsbooks, all at the lottery administrator’s discretion, the online business is far behind the retail sector. The nation’s first-ever sports betting website, Dagoo Sports, was established in 2012 but closed down shortly after. When they are ready to withdraw, they can play with their e-wallet funds until they are given a code to take to a nearby retailer.
The gambling landscape in Ethiopia is experiencing a significant transformation. The Slotegrator team consists of over 350 iGaming specialists in various fields, including law, finance, IT, marketing, and compliance. This is probably hampering the growth of the market and limiting the number of licensees, as well as driving players to offshore platforms. However, the country does have a very sizable population of 130 million. To get a gambling license in Ethiopia, operators have to fulfill several requirements before applying. The fee for a sports-lottery license is ETB 500,000 (€3,446), and the renewal fee is set at ETB 100,000.
Reader Information
Join Dash Bet today and discover why it’s quickly becoming the preferred choice for online casino entertainment in Ethiopia. The variety of options ensures that whether you prefer traditional banking methods or modern digital solutions, you’ll find a payment method that suits your needs perfectly. The casino has partnered with trusted payment processors to ensure that deposits are instant and withdrawals are processed as quickly as possible. This Dash Bet review will guide you through everything you need to know about what makes this platform stand out in the competitive online gambling landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the world of online casino gaming, Dash Bet provides an intuitive interface packed with hundreds of slots and online casino games from the industry’s leading providers.
From your Easybet login my account dashboard you can manage deposits and withdrawals through numerous convenient methods, ensuring easy access to funds and fast payouts. After selecting a licensed operator, individuals can create an account, deposit funds, and place bets in accordance with the rules set by the operator. Companies like MelBet and other global brands are growing their presence in this region through targeted advertising and partnerships, and slowly gaining momentum against established local brands. Mobile technology has been the main factor driving the growth of Ethiopia’s iGaming Industry to date, and with more people having access to the internet, Ethiopia has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing gaming markets.
Finding the best betting sites available in Ethiopia in 2026 means looking beyond big bonus claims and focusing on safety, odds, payment convenience and overall usability. This will ensure that sports gambling positively contributes to Ethiopian sports' development while safeguarding individuals' interests and wellbeing and the sports' integrity. But as the industry evolves, these regulations will need ongoing review and updates to remain effective. The menace of match-fixing, wherein outcomes are manipulated to favor specific gamblers, poses a genuine threat. The risk of addiction is a serious concern, with the excitement of gambling and the chance of winning large sums of money potentially leading individuals to gamble excessively.
Top Online Casinos for Ethiopian Players
It also contains online casino games for an added fun. It brings new players some bonuses and has some special offers for the current players on the site. Consumers should look forward to safe and secure payment procedures as well as superlative customer assistance. Rather famous for the number of sports that are available and an easy-to-navigate website. These fees and contributions are meant to make sure that gambling operators help in the growth of the nation’s economy and society.
Who regulates gambling in Ethiopia?
Choosing the top betting sites will ensure that players can participate in betting safely and securely, and receive the best services. Mastercard and Visa, the world's two most popular credit and debit cards, ensure that transactions are widely accepted and highly secure. Cloudbet stands out in Ethiopia for its support of cryptocurrency payments such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, enabling fast and highly secure transactions.
Brazil betting shutdown triggers BRL1.3bn refunds and job cuts
This site has everything for everyone; hence, it’s essentially a one-stop shop for all gamers. Among the plethora of Ethiopian online betting sites that Ethiopian sports punters and casino players can settle for is the highly accommodative Kurubet betting site. To offer gambling lovers what they want, some innovative gambling operators set up the Winzabet Ethiopia betting site.
Best Online Bookmakers and Casinos in Ethiopia
M88 offers over 10,000 sporting events each month, with a particular focus on European football, including the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and the Champions League. The platform also supports a wide range of local and international payment methods, making it easy and safe for Ethiopian players to manage deposits and withdrawals. Notably, FB88’s SSL security system ensures safe financial transactions and protection of personal information.
The platform understands the importance of responsible gambling casino practices and structures its bonuses with clear terms and transparent wagering requirements. The platform’s live betting interface displays real-time statistics, match trackers, and visual representations of game progress, helping players make informed decisions during crucial moments. The live betting section at Dash Bet online represents one of the platform’s most dynamic and engaging features, allowing Ethiopian players to place wagers on ongoing matches in real-time. The sportsbook also features basketball, tennis, volleyball, handball, and various other sports that attract significant betting interest in the Ethiopian market. The platform provides comprehensive coverage of both local and international sporting competitions, ensuring that Ethiopian bettors have access to a wide array of markets throughout the year.
The government has not prioritized online gambling regulation, and the legal status remains ambiguous. Ethiopia has a developing online gambling market with growing interest in sports betting and casino gaming, though infrastructure challenges remain. Additionally, the regulator aims to develop a unified electronic system for centralised monitoring and oversight of gambling activities. This approach discourages industry growth, as it treats all revenues equally without accounting for expenses or winnings.
The withdrawal may therefore need to be converted into ETB before it reaches a local account. Set a fixed gambling budget before depositing and keep casino funds separate from food, housing, transport, education and other essential spending. The same core checks apply to The best Africa online casinos, with banking and legal analysis adjusted for each country. By ensuring operators meet strict licensing requirements, the government hopes to create a more transparent market that protects players, promotes fair competition, and maximizes tax contributions. Coordination among the National Intelligence and Security Service, Financial Security Service, and Federal Police was critical to the enforcement, with operations conducted in Addis Ababa and other major cities. The move is part of a broader effort to improve transparency, safeguard consumer interests, and ensure government revenues are properly collected.
Games load quickly, the interface is easy to use, and payments can be managed directly from your phone. Loyalty rewards are also available, offering ongoing perks the more you play. New members often receive a welcome bonus that boosts their first deposit, giving them extra funds or free spins to explore the site. This ensures every game is random and fair, giving you confidence that the outcomes are genuine.
Current Legal Status
The focus of the gaming industry will continue to be mobile-first due to the fact that over 75% of all gaming traffic in Ethiopia is generated from the use of smartphones, mainly Android operating systems. While no specific market share data for sports betting, the sports betting industry will be the largest segment by revenue and number of active users. Most of the local operators have an established position within the lottery and land-based betting sectors, while international operators provide a greater technological and product diversity, as well as marketing knowledge. An example of an international operator that is targeting Ethiopia as its main market for expansion by 2025, based on the youth of its population and the level of digital adoption in the country, is MelBet. Ethiopia’s iGaming market is a mixture of both local and foreign gaming operators, primarily focused on providing sports betting and lotteries.
Sports betting for Ethiopian players
The ELS, in collaboration with state bodies, will monitor compliance closely, warning of legal consequences for non-compliance. Betting sites in Lesotho are a special, dynamic space for online casinos and sports betting. Betting sites in Tanzanias have experienced a significant growth in recent times because of economic changes and modern regulations. Even sites have different support options and rules. Read them carefully to understand the rules and restrictions.
- Earlier this month, regulators had already revoked the licences of 22 specific betting companies following investigations into alleged revenue concealment exceeding 100 billion birr.
- This shift could undermine governmental efforts to bolster oversight and secure tax revenues.
- The site positions itself as a mobile-first web arcade experience built around quick games, competition, rewards and account-based play.
- The figures below reflect the last known requirements prior to the shutdown and are based on secondary reporting, as official government fee schedules were not located.
- The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia is located in northeastern Africa and was officially established on August 22, 1994.
- Mobile technology has been the main factor driving the growth of Ethiopia’s iGaming Industry to date, and with more people having access to the internet, Ethiopia has emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing gaming markets.
- For now, the protections that usually shield people from serious harm are mostly missing from this market.
- The surge in online betting in Ethiopia is not just changing how fans engage with sports; it’s also making a noticeable impact on the economy.
- In a nutshell, a betting site can only be trusted if it meets specific conditions.
- We will discuss everything from regular brick-and-mortar casinos to the relatively new online casinos.
- Enjoy fast, secure, and transparent payouts with withdrawal conditions designed just for you.
- With an increased focus on responsible gambling, players now have a greater sense of community and social interaction with sports and gaming events than ever before.
- As the digital landscape transforms, so does the way we engage with entertainment, and online casinos are at the forefront of this revolution.
Casino and Sportsbook Reviews for Ethiopian Players
- No official statement from ELS or NISS has explicitly linked the nationwide licence revocation to that specific arrest case.
- This comprehensive dash bet review explores everything you need to know about accessing this premium casino platform through its innovative mobile application.
- The growing concerns and recent media criticisms has forced both betting firms and the government, to call a press conference at the end of March 2020.
- While social concerns have long plagued the industry, the government’s primary justification for the total shutdown centered on illicit financial flows and national security.
- Opportunities exist for online gambling operators to cater to the young and tech-savvy population by offering a wide range of betting options and convenient payment methods.
- Two-step verification ties your account to your SIM, which matters if you use internet cafes in areas like Merkato or Piazza in Addis Ababa.
- To ensure fast and protected transactions, always double-check your payment details and use a reliable method.
- For instance, UK gambling legislation attempts to regulate the behavior of individual betters where it is believed that betting activity is related to, or may constitute, criminal activity.
- Bet24.et is a trusted source for players in Ethiopia who want reliable information about online casinos and sports betting platforms.
- Crash games — a format that has gained rapid popularity across African markets — deserve specific mention.
- Recent suspensions of over 80 licenses highlight a commitment to stricter oversight, promoting a safer gaming environment.
- Treating online betting as entertainment with a defined budget — rather than as a reliable income source — is the approach that allows people to engage with it sustainably over time.
- This measure builds on previous actions where 22 operators were suspended, and criminal investigations were launched over concealed betting revenues.
- Furthermore, the directive imposes strict requirements on preserving server data and user information, with any tampering classified as a criminal offense under Ethiopian law.
The current policy, implemented by the Ministry of Revenue, imposes a 15% tax on operators’ turnover. Instead, international firms can participate as service providers, offering technology and gaming solutions to local operators. However, Ethiopia prohibits foreign companies from directly engaging in gambling activities. Only betting shops and lottery organisers can obtain permits, as other forms of gambling remain illegal. Licensed operators contribute significant funds to state coffers, with monthly tax payments reaching tens of millions of ETB.
Telebirr Withdrawal Times
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This number is likely much higher in kinship cultures, including among Indigenous peoples. A Swedish study estimated that those with a gambling disorder were 15 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population (4). The service affirmed that the enforcement is aimed at protecting government revenue, ensuring public trust, and promoting transparency in the country’s sports betting industry. The decision follows investigations that uncovered irregularities and significant revenue mismanagement exceeding 100 billion birr.
While some court rulings had raised expectations of regulatory changes, the official position remains unchanged. These unlicensed operators often operate without oversight, increasing the potential for fraud and harm. However, authorities have made it clear that the ban on licensed sports betting remains firmly in place.
Currently, most online casinos available to Ethiopian players are international platforms rather than locally-based ones. The National Lottery Administration (NLA) is responsible for issuing licenses and regulating gambling activities. These laws mainly focus on regulating lotteries and land-based gambling establishments. Ready to learn how to enjoy online casinos in Ethiopia safely?
- For example, 56 out of every 100 people have a mobile phone, and 46% of adults over 25 have an account with a financial institution or mobile money provider—providing a strong foundation for gambling-related payments.
- It is a current-status and safety list.
- Choosing platforms that hold verifiable offshore licenses, use SSL encryption for data security, and have established track records with Ethiopian players is the most reliable way to navigate this landscape safely.
- A ban does not make the urge to bet disappear, and people betting through offshore sites during the shutdown are more exposed than ever.
- The agency claimed the funds moved abroad through cryptocurrency exchanges and hawala-style transfer networks.
- Ethiopia’s burgeoning iGaming sector is a product of growing interest from African governments and an increasingly youthful population with increased access to mobile internet services (for example, through the introduction of online casinos).
- Compare Ethiopia online casinos for real money play, fast withdrawals and secure ETB cashouts.
- The announcement marks one of the most sweeping regulatory crackdowns on the betting industry in Ethiopia to date, reflecting the government’s growing focus on financial regulation, consumer protection, and national security concerns.
- We provide limited data here, you can get full granularity and analytics in Blask app
- That is a sevenfold collapse in a single month, directly traceable to the mid-December shutdown.
- Whether you’re new to online casinos in Ethiopia or already experienced, Chatki gives you a safe and exciting way to enjoy gaming.
Gambling Legal Framework in Ethiopia
Whether players have actually been able to claim those funds is another matter entirely. Operators were required to preserve all server data, financial records, and user information, with authorities warning that tampering with evidence would be prosecuted as a criminal offence. Investigators said they had uncovered a web of tax evasion, illegal financial transfers, and unlicensed operations — with funds allegedly funnelled through cryptocurrency and hawala services, and links claimed to terrorism financing and contraband networks. One sentence ended a legal betting market that had been growing rapidly for more than a decade. There is currently no licensing process to apply for, no consultation under way and no timeline for a return to a regulated market.
- Officials explained that the suspensions were carried out under the country’s proclamation and the Sports Betting License Directive, which permits regulators to revoke or freeze a license if it is linked to fraud, criminal activity, or actions that threaten public peace and national security.
- This offers an excellent window for early entrants to educate users, gain brand exposure, and build loyalty.
- There are currently no investment banks in Ethiopia, and commercial banks are only able to offer limited funding to businesses due to prudential requirements.
- The regulator explains that this tax is primarily a measure of restriction aimed at deterring operators from seeking easy profits and further protecting consumers from dishonest service providers.
- Many first-time players wonder how online casinos operate in Ethiopia.
- The National Lottery Administration historically held the authority to revoke permits for breaches, with the ultimate enforcement action being the nationwide revocation of all licenses in 2025.
- With Africa’s gaming sector projected to grow from $2.16 billion in 2024 to over $10.8 billion by 2033, Ethiopia’s response to the new tax policy will determine its role in the continent’s gaming future.
- The web and app versions of Betway are easy to navigate, even for new users, and the available diversified payment options make it a popular choice.
- However, online casino games exist in a gray area – they’re not explicitly regulated, but they’re not explicitly prohibited either.
- Overall, Ethiopia offers significant opportunities for investors and operators seeking growth in an increasingly formalized African gaming landscape.
- Looking ahead, experts concur that sustainable growth hinges on balanced regulation and public awareness.
- For example, a 100% welcome bonus means if you deposit $100, you get an extra $100 as bonus funds.
- The rules of the game are changing in Ethiopia, and not everyone is ready to play by them.
Top 2: FB88 bookmaker
- Easybet has quickly become one of the most popular online sports betting platforms in Ethiopia thanks to its broad range of markets, secure payment options, and responsive customer support.
- The aim is to shift supervision toward technology‑based oversight, ensuring that every transaction and liability is captured in real time.
- First, however, let’s get to see just how safe and secure you are when you choose to settle at Chatki.
- The site is designed to load quickly, with games optimised for smaller screens.
- A February 2026 parliamentary discussion of a draft sports proclamation included ministerial remarks that a future legal framework may be needed, but nothing had been tabled by September 2026.
- One of the fastest-growing interests in digital gambling is online betting Ethiopia fans can participate in—especially when it comes to sports.
- Each site listed is evaluated based on a large set of criteria, including licensing, payout speed, mobile compatibility, and the variety of available games.
- In November 2025 — barely weeks before the shutdown — students quoted by Addis Standard described gambling as having taken over their daily lives.
- Notably, FB88’s SSL security system ensures safe financial transactions and protection of personal information.
- However, there are an estimated 56 mobile cellular subscriptions for every 100 people, and 46% of adults over 25 have an account with a financial institution or mobile-money provider.
- For the seasoned Ethiopian punter, 1xBet is the ultimate choice, offering plenty of sporting events.
- Staying updated on these developments is crucial for potential operators.
- His work focuses on real-money availability, withdrawal speed, banking methods, payment friction and how regulatory differences affect players across jurisdictions.
Despite the current ban, government officials have not ruled out a future framework for the sector. The court decision raised questions over the regulator’s enforcement process, but it did not restore Hulu Sport’s licence or reopen the market. The Ethiopian Lottery Service (ELS) has issued a public notice confirming that the country’s sports betting ban remains in force, seven months after regulators revoked every operating licence in the sector. Major statutes, enforcement milestones, and pending reforms shaping the Ethiopia gambling market. The regulator, in coordination with national security and federal police, showed a zero-tolerance policy by shutting down the entire licensed sector, freezing assets, and starting criminal proceedings. The figures below reflect the last known requirements prior to the shutdown and are based on secondary reporting, as official government fee schedules were not located.
- In parallel, the Ethiopian Gambling Board is intensifying oversight of physical and digital operators.
- If Mpesa is integrated sports betting will be at it’s peak because of thier experience in giving better services.
- Even sites have different support options and rules.
- For operators with localization capabilities and compliance experience, this is not just a challenge—it’s a historic entry window.
- Ethiopia has a growing online betting market and it will soon possibly be as large as the markets in Tanzania, Kenya and Nigeria.
- This not only ensures their operation is lawful but also builds trust with their users.
- Cryptocurrency is also an option on several platforms, with Bitcoin casinos offering the additional feature of transaction anonymity for players who prefer not to link their gambling activity to their primary financial accounts.
- Withdrawals are processed promptly, with clear guidelines on timing so you always know when to expect your funds.
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- While online gambling is currently considered illegal in Ethiopia, there are indications that the government may explore regulatory changes to accommodate this evolving industry.
- Crypto is fast and often has lower fees compared to regular banks.
- In a statement, the organization’s leaders pointed out that this decision represented a significant loss of potential revenue for the country’s budget.
- Additionally, legal bookmakers allocate significant funds to social projects every month.
- However, the country does have a very sizable population of 130 million.
The Current State of Online Gambling in Ethiopia
However, others express concern that such rapid changes could stifle the market’s potential, driving both players and revenue abroad. Companies will need to rethink their business models and strategic approaches to remain competitive. Africa’s gaming market, valued at $2.16 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $10.81 billion by 2033, with Ethiopia poised to play a crucial role in this growth trajectory. The country, home to over 134 million people with a rapidly expanding mobile user base, is one of Africa’s most dynamic betting markets. These unregulated sites often promise higher payouts and fewer restrictions, creating a tempting alternative for bettors dissatisfied with the domestic market’s offerings.
The authorities explained their decision to shut down all city-based bookmakers by citing a desire to protect the youth and other segments of society from the detrimental effects of gambling. For now, it seems that a complete ban on gambling in the country is not expected in the near future. This decision has effectively forced local players to move to online betting. By framing gambling enforcement as part of a broader effort to control capital flow, the government underscores its commitment to national security. This measure builds zoran bet on previous actions where 22 operators were suspended, and criminal investigations were launched over concealed betting revenues.
You can also enter an Easybet promo code during your first deposit to maximise your betting potential. Easybet has quickly become one of the most popular online sports betting platforms in Ethiopia thanks to its broad range of markets, secure payment options, and responsive customer support. The online casino section features an impressive variety of slots, table games, and a live casino with real dealers. Treating online betting as entertainment with a defined budget — rather than as a reliable income source — is the approach that allows people to engage with it sustainably over time. Cutting through the noise requires focusing on a small number of genuinely consequential criteria rather than being distracted by headline bonus figures or marketing claims. Withdrawal speeds vary by platform and payment method, with some of the fastest payouts available through dedicated crypto transactions.
However, that only applies to B2C licensees; foreign software suppliers can freely offer their services to local brands. While there is a land-based casino in the country, Ethiopian gambling regulations do not account for online casinos, so licenses simply aren’t available. Chatki Casino is fully available to Ethiopian players, offering local payment methods and customer support designed for the region. These partnerships ensure Chatki Casino stays ahead of the curve with top-tier online casino games.
In the words of Betrush, “The new tax regime is not just a fiscal change — it’s a stress test for Ethiopia’s betting industry, and only those who evolve will remain in play.” The country’s population of over 134 million, nearly half of whom are under 20, represents one of Africa’s largest potential betting markets. Once your account is created, you can immediately make your first deposit using one of the supported payment methods and claim any available welcome bonuses designed for new members. Since the app may not be available on the Google Play Store due to gambling content restrictions, downloading directly from the official source ensures you receive the authentic, secure version of the application. Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest operating system versions while maintaining support for older devices that still meet the minimum requirements. The Dash Bet application comes packed with features designed to enhance your online casino experience and provide maximum convenience for Ethiopian players.
Ethiopia has framed the crackdown as necessary to protect public revenue and restore trust, pointing to a tougher enforcement posture in a sector that expanded faster than oversight capacity. Ethiopia stated that the freeze will remain in place until it completes its criminal investigations, with regulators indicating that the removal of operators that fail to meet reporting and compliance obligations is intended to strengthen the legal betting market. As Ethiopia continues to modernise, casinos are set to remain a meaningful part of its entertainment landscape. Continued urban growth, improved tourism infrastructure, and rising consumer interest in modern entertainment formats suggest that casinos will remain part of the country’s evolving leisure landscape. Even though the number of casinos across the country remains limited, their influence on entertainment culture continues to grow.