Mobile connectivity drives Senegal’s iGaming expansion
The mobile network transformation in Senegal is reshaping how people access digital entertainment and betting platforms. Rapid improvements in connectivity now allow millions to engage with online gambling services. With 97 per cent 4G coverage and 39 per cent 5G coverage, access continues to widen nationwide.
The country has 8.16 million mobile internet users, according to GSMA. This connectivity enables both urban and rural users to reach mobile betting platforms more easily. The market already counts 6 million active bettors, representing nearly 29 per cent of the population.
Industry projections show the sector reaching $2.1 bn in gross gaming revenue by 2026. Expanding mobile payment services also makes deposits and withdrawals safer and faster for users. The GSMA expects further gains from digital reforms in the coming years.
“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-generation betting trends emerge
A youthful and mobile-first audience is shaping the country’s betting market. An IGT market research report shows that most players fall within younger age groups. Around 70 per cent of players are aged 25-34, while 28.3 per cent are aged 18-24. The report also indicates that 80.8 per cent of players are male.
Sports betting remains dominant, particularly wagers linked to football events and live matches. However, crash games and virtual sports are gaining traction because they suit mobile gameplay.
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 ownership continues to expand betting participation across both cities and rural communities. The report added: “Senegal’s iGaming industry has been experiencing rapid growth due to increased mobile-first adoption and smartphone proliferation.”
Traditional operators record strong results
While online platforms expand quickly, established operators also benefit from rising interest in betting activities. The national lottery operator LONASE reported strong financial results during 2025. In the first half of 2025, LONASE recorded a profit of CFA20.7bn ($34m). It also posted total revenues of CFA37.2bn ($61m).
Lotteries and sports betting largely fuelled this performance across the market. These results highlight how gambling has become a mainstream leisure activity. However, digital betting growth continues to move faster than the current legal structure.
Senegal’s outdated laws create uncertainty
Senegal’s gambling laws were originally designed for physical betting kiosks. Under that model, printed tickets were purchased using cash payments. Reports from Pulse Senegal and CasinosOnline-Africa say these laws still guide licensing. They mainly address operations for physical establishments rather than digital platforms.
Online betting has therefore developed with limited regulatory clarity. No clearly defined standards exist for many digital operators. “Although online betting is legally permitted, the risk of choosing an unreliable or poorly managed betting site is enormous,” said the Pulse Senegal report.
Concerns persist across the sector about the legal framework’s limitations. “Online betting has been practised outside the scope of current legislation, which means there are no clearly defined standards for issuing licences to digital betting companies.”
Regulatory gaps and player risks
Industry reports indicate that the digital gambling framework still trails the market’s growth. Many operators rely on foreign licences to keep services running locally. Players often face inconsistent safeguards and unclear dispute processes. The report added that online betting frequently depends on trust and user experience. This regulatory gap leaves bettors to judge credibility without strong legal protection.
“As long as there is no modern regulatory system to govern local digital betting operations, the distinction between a reputable company and a site generating short-term profits must be made solely by the bettor.” Experts warn that such conditions increase the risk of fraud and unfair practices.
Senegal’s growth continues despite oversight gaps
The imposition of a 20 per cent tax on gambling winnings has come into force. It is claimed that this will improve revenue collection and regulation. It is argued that this tax will place additional pressure on both gamblers and gambling sites, and some may opt for international sites that offer lower tax burdens. Consequently, small brands may reduce their promotional budgets due to increased competition.
However, the gambling industry is growing at an incredible rate, especially due to affordable smartphone usage and mobile payment services that encourage users to participate daily. Football’s popularity also fuels live betting activity nationwide. It is necessary for users to be careful and check licenses, avoid untested sites, and be aware of policies.
Despite warnings, Senegal’s online betting sector keeps growing. Strong connectivity and youthful engagement position the country as a rising digital entertainment hub in West Africa.
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