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Uganda is among the top sports betting markets on the continent, with recent data placing the country fourth in Africa in terms of active bettors.
According to GeoPoll’s Betting in Africa survey conducted in April 2025, Uganda boasts one of the highest betting participation rates on the continent, an estimated 87% of the adult population has engaged in sports betting.
When combined with mid-2025 population figures from Worldometer, this translates to approximately 44.7 million active bettors.
The report shows that Uganda trails only Nigeria (168.7 million bettors), South Africa (58.3 million), and Kenya (45.5 million), but surpasses larger countries like Tanzania (39.5 million) and Ghana (19.6 million) in terms of betting activity.
The rise of mobile-based betting has been a key factor behind Uganda’s surge. USSD codes, betting apps, and mobile money integration have made placing bets accessible even in rural and low-income areas.
The country’s youthful population, increasing smartphone usage, and a growing appetite for international football, especially European leagues, have further fueled betting trends.
East Africa as a whole has emerged as a high-participation region, with Kenya and Uganda leading the way. In contrast to Nigeria, whose dominance is largely population-driven, Uganda’s ranking reflects deep market penetration and engagement.
Analysts attribute the growth to ease of access, rising digital connectivity, and a cultural shift in attitudes towards sports betting. However, the trend has also sparked conversations around regulation and responsible gambling, as authorities seek to balance economic gains with social impact.
