Senegal’s 97 % mobile 4G coverage fuels igaming boom with revenue set to hit $2.1bn
Strong mobile connectivity and youth engagement are driving Senegal’s iGaming market towards $2.1 bn in projected revenue by the end of 2026.
Senegal.- Senegal’s mobile network is driving rapid growth in online gambling. With 97 per cent 4G coverage, 39 per cent 5G coverage and 8.16 million mobile internet users, a large portion of the population can now access digital entertainment and mobile betting platforms, according to the GSMA, the global trade body for mobile operators and the mobile industry.
The country already has 6 million active bettors – nearly 29 per cent of the population – and the market is projected to reach $2.1 bn in gross gaming revenue by 2026. This growth is supported by expanding mobile payment options, which make it easier for users to deposit and withdraw funds safely and quickly.
The GSMA said that Senegal’s digital reforms are expected to expand connectivity further. “Digital reforms could connect an additional 2.6 million people to mobile internet in Senegal by 2030, significantly expanding access to essential digital services,” added GSMA.
Next-gen betting growth
Senegal’s young, mobile-first betting base is highlighted in an IGT market research report, with 70 per cent of players aged 25-34, 28.3 per cent aged 18-24 and 80.8 per cent male. Sports betting, particularly football-linked and live wagers, remains dominant, but mobile-friendly formats like crash games and virtual sports are rapidly gaining popularity.
The report said: “There are estimates that the total amount of money wagered (Gross Gaming Revenue) in this industry will grow to $2.1bn USD by 2026 because of an increase in mobile use and a youthful population.”
Smartphone adoption and mobile-first behaviour are accelerating betting activity across urban and rural regions alike. The report added: “Senegal’s igaming industry has been experiencing rapid growth due to increased mobile-first adoption and smartphone proliferation.”
With strong connectivity, growing youth engagement, and widespread mobile adoption, Senegal’s igaming market is set for continued growth and innovation. While a 20 per cent tax on gambling winnings and evolving regulations remain part of the landscape, the country is emerging as a dynamic hub for digital entertainment in West Africa, offering exciting opportunities for players, operators and the broader economy.
