In a short period of time, the entire world has experienced a massive growth in the popularity of online casinos. While brick-and-mortar casinos still offer a great experience, online casinos have made games more accessible for everyone. On top of classic card games, there is an almost endless selection of online slots available on mobile devices via online casinos. By no means has Africa been immune to the swift growth of the online casino industry. However, different corners of Africa have experienced more growth than others. These are the three African countries that have seen the fastest-growth of this emerging industry.
KenyaIn many ways, Kenya is the envy of East Africa. It has a rapidly expanding economy, helped along by a population of roughly 53 million people. It also has one of the fastest-growing markets for online gambling. That industry is projected to grow at an annual rate of 10.98% between 2021 and 2026, meaning online betting is yet to peak in Kenya despite incredible growth. The Betting Control and Licensing Board in Kenya oversees all of the country’s legal online gambling. This includes thriving online casinos, high-demand poker rooms, and a sports betting market that has also seen rapid growth.
NigeriaAs Africa’s most populous country, it’s no surprise that Nigeria’s online gambling industry is booming right now. With a population that far exceeds 200 million people, there is almost endless room for this industry to expand, which helps explain an expected growth rate of over 12% for online betting between 2021 and 2026. In Nigeria, the National Lottery Regulatory Commission has taken charge of legal online gambling forums. It’s currently monitoring both the online casinos that are experiencing a boom in popularity, as well as online sports betting, which is also on the rise in Nigeria.
South AfricaCompared to Nigeria, South Africa has a more modest economy of around 59 million people. However, it’s undoubtedly one of Africa’s most developed countries, which is why its gambling industry is already well established compared to many of its African neighbors. With a strong foundation for gambling in South Africa, the country’s online gambling market is projected annual growth of nearly 13% between 2021 and 2026. Part of that strong foundation is the National Gambling Board, which already has a stringent regulatory structure in place. Securing a license for online gambling isn’t as easy in South Africa as it might be in other countries. This has allowed online casinos to thrive while also maintaining a safe platform for players.
