Smartphones and football fuel youth sports betting boom in Africa
Sports betting in Africa is expanding rapidly, especially among young people using smartphones and mobile money to bet on football. Markets such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana are among the largest, with betting revenue projected to grow from $3.5 billion in 2021 to $19.4 billion by 2030. Research highlights that betting is not just entertainment but often seen as a potential income source amid economic uncertainty for youth.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
Sports betting among young people in Africa is growing rapidly, driven by the widespread use of smartphones, mobile money, and the continent’s passion for football, according to public health research published on November 5, 2026.
Industry estimates indicate that annual betting revenue in Africa could increase from US$3.5 billion in 2021 to US$19.4 billion by 2030, with South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana among the largest markets. The ease of placing bets via mobile devices and internet access has transformed betting from a physical activity to a digital one accessible almost anywhere, anytime.
A 2026 survey across Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda found that a majority of respondents reported betting on football in the preceding year—64% in Kenya, 60% in Ghana, and 54% in Nigeria. Among active bettors, 95% used mobile devices and 67% primarily bet on football, reflecting the sport’s widespread popularity and media presence.
The research emphasizes that betting is often viewed by young people not merely as entertainment but as a potential source of income, especially in a context of high youth unemployment and economic uncertainty. This connection between football culture, digital life, and gambling raises concerns about potential harms, including financial and psychological difficulties.