Sports betting in Ethiopia traces its roots to the mid-20th century when lottery activities were first legalized under Proclamation No. 183 of 1961. Later reforms, including Proclamation No. 535/2007, opened the lottery sector to private operators, implicitly recognizing sports betting as a licensed lottery activity under Ethiopian law (1).
Regulation of sports betting falls under the National Lottery Administration (NLA), which issues permits, supervises operations, and enforces compliance. In September 2021, the Ministry of Revenue formalized rules for sports wagering through Directive No. 172/2021, setting out licensing criteria, taxation, and social responsibility requirements (1).
"The National Lottery Administration Re-establishment Proclamation No. 535/2007 and Council of Ministers Regulation No. 160/2009 are the main laws governing gaming in Ethiopia. The Ministry of Revenue directive 'Sports Betting Lottery Directive No. 172/2021,' effective September 1, 2021, regulates sports betting."
Since 2012, both land-based and online sports betting have been legal, with operators required to pay licensing fees and a 15% commission on ticket revenue. While online casinos lack clear regulation, licensed sports betting firms continue to expand under NLA oversight, contributing to government revenues and social projects (2).
Source:
https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-africa/ethiopia
https://slotegrator.pro/analytical_articles/online-gambling-in-ethiopia/
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
