Telecom and internet growth drives Tanzania’s igaming boom
Rising connectivity, mobile money adoption and regulatory oversight are fuelling rapid growth in Tanzania’s online gaming sector.
Tanzania.- Tanzania’s digital economy is expanding at an unprecedented pace, acting as a catalyst for the country’s already booming online gambling industry. The latest Communications Statistics Report from the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) for the quarter ending September 2025 shows that telecom subscriptions surged by 7.1 per cent to 99.3 million, up from 92.7 million in June, while internet subscriptions rose 4.1 per cent to 56.3 million, with mobile broadband accounting for more than 99 per cent of connections.
The report states, according to the Citizen: “This digital surge is further strengthened by mobile money adoption, which now reaches 71.7 million subscriptions, with over 5.27 billion transactions processed during the quarter.”
Mobile money adoption has surged due to a combination of technological advancements, supportive policy initiatives and shifts in consumer behaviour, enabling more Tanzanians to participate in digital transactions and online gaming platforms.
Combined with a 10 per cent reduction in telecom fraud attempts thanks to improved awareness and security measures, this creates a safe and accessible environment for online betting and igaming platforms.
Connectivity powers igaming surge
Tanzania’s online gaming sector is already thriving, generating record revenues, attracting major investments and creating thousands of jobs. The Gaming Board of Tanzania reports that over the last four years, the licensed gaming sector generated TZS260.21bn (€96.37m) in revenue, nearly double the previous period.
Over the same period, 62 licensed companies have invested TZS66.7bn (€23.1m), offering 8,549 betting games to Tanzanian players. A major addition, Ithuba Tanzania Limited, launched in April 2025 with TZS54bn (€18.2m) in setup and technology, running transparent online draws that have helped build trust and attract more players.
Olesumayan Daniel, Acting Director General of the Gaming Board of Tanzania, said: “The sector has created 30,000 jobs and contributed over TZS 922 billion (€318.5 million) in taxes, funding schools, roads and sports programs.”
Officials emphasise that betting should remain entertainment, encouraging responsible play. The board’s crackdown on unlicensed operators is protecting minors and ensuring fair play, while supporting sustainable industry growth.
With Tanzania’s rapidly expanding digital infrastructure, mobile financial services and regulatory oversight, the country is poised to scale its online gaming market, offering opportunities for both local and international operators and establishing itself as a leading player in Africa’s igaming sector.
