Senegal’s National Lottery (LONASE) has posted a profit of 20.7 billion CFA francs (€31.7m) for the first half of 2025. Local industry players describe these results as a historic milestone for the state-owned company.
Managing Director Toussaint Manga announced the results and confirmed that LONASE recorded total revenues of 37.2 billion CFA francs (€56.7m) between January and June. Operating expenses stood at 16.4 billion CFA francs (€25m) during the same period.
La Loterie Nationale Sénégalaise (LONASE), which oversees lottery and betting activities across Senegal, attributed the performance to increased participation in its products. Lottery games and sports betting were identified as the main drivers of this growth. Manga interpreted the results as proof of the company’s strong market position.
Analysts react to Senegal’s lottery growth
Analysts suggest the increased revenue is a reflection of broader economic pressures within the country. Many citizens have turned to gambling activities in search of financial relief amid limited job opportunities. The H1 revenue results have revived debates about LONASE’s dual role. The company generates state revenue while also regulating the gaming industry to curb social risks such as addiction.
Critics argue that record revenues highlight the lottery’s dependence on vulnerable players. On the other hand, supporters insist that LONASE remains an essential contributor to national finances.
Supreme Court clears second lottery platform
On 11 September 2025, Senegal’s Supreme Court gave LONASE approval to operate a second lottery platform. This ruling followed the nullification of an appeal lodged by AFITECH.
AFITECH had attempted to appeal the new agreement signed between Paymetrust, its chosen technology partner, and LONASE. However, the Supreme Court ruled that it had no jurisdiction to interfere, thereby supporting LONASE’s freedom to diversify.
A Seneweb article states: “In a landmark ruling on 11 September 2025, the Supreme Court declared itself incompetent to hear AFITECH’s request to suspend the contract between LONASE and Paymetrust, confirming that LONASE had not exceeded its contractual prerogatives.” The judgment confirmed that the Paymetrust agreement remains valid and that LONASE is empowered to operate its second lottery portal.
Regulatory authority strengthens court ruling
The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (ARCOP) had earlier backed the move. On 1 July 2025, ARCOP rejected AFITECH’s appeal concerning the platform. ARCOP ruled that the matter fell outside the jurisdiction of public procurement laws. It also affirmed that exclusivity claims were not valid in this case.
In its 1 September ruling, ARCOP explained that agreements between LONASE and AFITECH differ from those involving Paymetrust. AFITECH’s deal was classified as a public service delegation. Paymetrust’s agreement followed a public-private partnership (PPP) framework. ARCOP directed LONASE to launch a PPP-compatible process within six months. This directive will ensure transparency and compliance in managing the second platform.
Implications for Senegal’s lottery sector
The decisions by ARCOP and the Supreme Court mark a turning point for Senegal’s lottery industry. The rulings give LONASE operational stability while strengthening its autonomy. The outcome will broaden consumer access, extend services, and increase participation in lottery activities. Technological partnerships are also expected to boost efficiency and innovation within the sector.
For players and industry stakeholders, the rulings assure that operations will remain stable and transparent. Regulators have now defined a framework that balances competition, oversight, and innovation. Together, the record profits and the clearance to run a second platform highlight a transformative year for LONASE and the rest of the Senegalese gaming market.
Colombo’s ready for South Asia’s premier iGaming summit. Join 5,000+ delegates at SiGMA South Asia, 30 Nov – 02 Dec 2025. Network, scale, and grow in one of the world’s fastest-rising markets, where new markets meet new horizons.
