Key Moments:
- Gambling revenue reached TZS 260.21 billion (€96.37 million) over four years, almost double the previous period’s TZS 131.99 billion (€48.88 million).
- The industry has generated over 30,000 jobs and contributed TZS 922.25 billion (€341.5 million) in taxes supporting public services.
- New regulations and investments led to 62 licensed companies investing TZS 66.7 billion (€23.1 million), including the launch of national lottery operator Ithuba Tanzania Limited.
Record-Breaking Revenue and Economic Impact
The Gaming Board of Tanzania has reported that the country’s gambling sector achieved a dramatic increase in revenue, amassing TZS 260.21 billion (€96.37 million) over the past four years. This nearly doubles the TZS 131.99 billion (€48.88 million) recorded during the preceding comparable period. During a press conference on September 29, Acting Director General Olesumayan Daniel shared these figures and emphasized the sector’s contribution to the national economy, including the generation of more than 30,000 jobs across Tanzania.
The industry has also played a substantial fiscal role, delivering TZS 922.25 billion (€341.5 million) in taxes, which has been directed to crucial public services such as road construction and educational projects.
Growth Driven by Regulation and Investment
According to the Gaming Board, stricter licensing oversight and a wave of new investments have underpinned this financial upswing. In the last two years, licensed operators – now totaling 62 companies – have injected TZS 66.7 billion (€23.1 million) into the market. This surge includes offerings of 8,549 different betting games. Among the newly authorized entrants is Ithuba Tanzania Limited, which received the national lottery license for the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
Ithuba Tanzania Limited, backed by 60% South African investment and 40% local ownership, rolled out its operations in April 2025, having spent more than €18.2 million (around TZS 54 billion) on operating infrastructure and technological advancements. A notable feature of their debut was the launch of online lottery result access, marking a milestone in transparency for Tanzanian players.
| Metric | Recent Four Years | Previous Period |
|---|---|---|
| Gambling Revenue | TZS 260.21 billion (€96.37 million) | TZS 131.99 billion (€48.88 million) |
| Number of Jobs Created | Over 30,000 | – |
| Tax Contributions | TZS 922.25 billion (€341.5 million) | – |
| Licensed Investment (last 2 years) | TZS 66.7 billion (€23.1 million) | – |
Sports Funding and Youth Programs
Olesumayan Daniel outlined the positive impact of gambling revenues on Tanzania’s sports landscape, as 5% of the board’s proceeds are earmarked for sports and distributed through the National Sports Council. The most recent disbursements have ranged from TZS 44 billion (€15.28 million) to TZS 53 billion (€18.41 million), funding youth athletic training, stadium upgrades, and assistance for local teams. Daniel remarked that these allocations have already led to improvements of rural sporting facilities and coaching for hundreds of young athletes.
Commitment to Responsible Gambling
While the growth trajectory continues, Daniel reiterated the importance of approaching gambling responsibly, stressing that betting should remain a form of recreation rather than a means to meet financial obligations. He cautioned bettors to maintain healthy self-control to safeguard their incomes.
To further reinforce consumer protection, the Gaming Board has heightened its enforcement actions against unlicensed gambling activities and operators that inadequately protect players or minors. Recent advisories have targeted informal PlayStation game betting at home, which may expose children to gambling risks. These initiatives are designed to protect at-risk groups and promote a secure and responsible gaming environment.
Officials expressed confidence that, given ongoing job creation and further investments, Tanzania’s gambling sector could see even higher revenue figures in the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
- Author
Daniel Williams
