Tanzania’s gambling sector creates 30,000 jobs as revenue hits record high
Sector drives exceptional tax growth and significantly strengthens national economic development.
Tanzania.- Tanzania’s gambling industry is driving record revenue growth and has created 30,000 jobs nationwide. The Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) announced that tax earnings from gambling activities surged from TSh131.99bn (€544m) in the 2020/21 financial year to TSh260.21bn (€1.07bn) in 2024/25.
Tax revenue has become a powerhouse for the economy, soaring a staggering 97 per cent in just four years. This was highlighted at a recent working session organised in partnership with GBT and the Office of the Treasury Registrar, underscoring the gambling industry’s expanding role in driving Tanzania’s national economy.
GBT’s director of services, Daniel Sumayan, said: “By the end of June 2025, the gambling industry has contributed to the creation of approximately 30,000 jobs across the country in both formal and informal sectors.”
Sumayan also highlighted strong investor confidence, noting that over TSh66.7bn (€275m) has flowed into Tanzania from new investors in just two years, backing the rapid growth of the industry and its increasing contribution to national development.
Industry hailed as it benefits the nation
Government authorities praised the industry’s success. Revocatus Kassimba from the government spokesperson’s office commended the GBT for driving revenue and job creation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting proper regulation to ensure the industry benefits the nation.
The sector exceeded revenue expectations despite the challenge of illegal activities, the GBT said, particularly “dubwi,” a Tanzanian slang term for unlicensed gambling machines operating in unauthorised areas, which could divert significant revenue from the government.
Established under Act No. 4 of 2003, the GBT began operations on July 1, 2003. Today, the sector is more than entertainment; it is driving jobs, investment, and economic growth across the country.
