Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa implements total ban on sports betting amid NLA concerns

Crypto can provide a fast way to move winnings out of an international casino, but the full cashout is not finished until the balance has been converted and can be used in ETB. Stake does not have one fixed overall withdrawal maximum, while BC.Game uses asset-specific limits. We test live chat and email response times and check whether agents can actually handle Ethiopia-specific questions, such as Telebirr payment issues, ETB account problems, and local KYC or withdrawal delays.

Alongside sports betting, online casino gaming represents a substantial and growing part of the Ethiopian online gambling market. The odds formats used across Ethiopian betting platforms vary — decimal, fractional, and American odds all appear depending on the platform — and understanding how to read them is foundational to making informed betting decisions. Choosing platforms that hold verifiable offshore licenses, use SSL encryption for data security, and have established track records with Ethiopian players is the most reliable way to navigate this landscape safely. Online betting in Ethiopia operates in a regulatory environment that is, by most descriptions, still developing.

• Whether you’re a new player or a returning member, the login system at Dash Bet online ensures that your gaming experience starts smoothly every time you visit.
• The government increased the withholding tax on winnings from approximately 15% to a range of 20% to 25%, while maintaining a 15% turnover tax on operators’ total stakes or sales.
• For Ethiopian bettors seeking safer alternatives, regulated markets outside the country may provide more secure environments.
• Abyssinia Law is a legal resource portal providing open access to primary and secondary legal materials for Ethiopia, such as laws, court decisions, articles, contact guidance, and Lawyers Directory – with texts supplemented by online videos, a discussion forum, and a user blog.
• These features collectively ensure that Dash Bet remains a safe casino environment where players can focus on entertainment while maintaining control over their gaming activities.
• Instead, the groundwork was laid slowly through the growth of hotels, nightlife hubs, and entertainment districts that began to attract both locals and international visitors.
• Also, mobile money platforms like Telebirr have simplified payments for sports betting, and online casinos use international payment systems, which do not reach rural communities.
• Additionally, the platform strictly adheres to international security standards, protecting user information and assets.
• Comparing Ethiopia to other African markets, Kenya taxes betting winnings at 20%, while South Africa applies varying rates between 6 and 15% depending on the province, plus a levy on gross gaming revenue.
• These services allow you to fund your casino account directly from your mobile phone, often without needing a bank account.
• Gambling firms are required to secure licenses, meet tax obligations, and comply with stringent rules to prevent underage gambling and addiction.
• This facilitates the participation of fans and businesses with the explanation of the playing field rules.

While Addis Ababa hosts physical casinos, Ethiopia has not yet created a legal framework or licensing system for iGaming. These gambling services can be legally offered through licensed local operators. In 2012, the Ethiopian government officially legalized sports betting and allowed nationwide lottery operations. Despite still being in its early stages with relatively low penetration rates, the country is experiencing consistent growth in mobile connectivity, internet adoption, and social media usage. Amharic is Ethiopia’s official language, but the country is highly multilingual, with over 80 languages and more than 200 dialects spoken nationwide. Islam also has deep roots in the country, with around 34% of the population identifying as Muslim, primarily located in the eastern and southern regions.

Gambling in Ethiopia occupies a complicated space, with limited legal frameworks and patchy enforcement across the country. The country's large population (over 120 million people) creates substantial market potential despite relatively low per-capita participation rates. This approach discourages industry growth, as it treats all revenues equally without accounting for expenses or winnings. As Ethiopia navigates this transition, the focus remains on integrity and sustainability. On one hand, the shutdown could reduce the excesses of unregulated betting, helping to protect vulnerable populations and increase fiscal accountability. Chatki is more than just a casino; it’s a complete entertainment hub designed specifically for Ethiopian players.

Knowing the rules, background and the major stakeholders is crucial as it will help the bettor make wise choices. It also contains online casino games for an added fun. Consumers should look forward to safe and secure payment procedures as well as superlative customer assistance. Rather famous for the number of sports that are available and an easy-to-navigate website. These fees and contributions are meant to make sure that gambling operators help in the growth of the nation’s economy and society. The NLA is very important in ensuring that there is proper regulation of gambling activities in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia strengthens gambling regulation amid industry growth new

Utop is quite a good betting site, offering a decent experience, while offering all of the betting products a punter would need. 22Bet have a site in Ethiopia, but they have not actually officially launched. They are a good example of what the future holds for sports betting punters. We think Bravobet have the potential to become the number 1 betting site in Ethiopia.

Gavin Lucas – iGaming Expert and Chief Editor, Gamblerspro.com Gavin has spent over a decade writing about online casinos across major operators and markets. Direct casino withdrawal support still depends on the individual cashier, so either service may instead be used after the winnings have already been converted into ETB. It should only be treated as a direct casino withdrawal method when the casino cashier itself supports it; otherwise it can be used later in the ETB settlement process. The withdrawal may therefore need to be converted into ETB before it reaches a local account. Set a fixed gambling budget before depositing and keep casino funds separate from food, housing, transport, education and other essential spending.

Individuals engaged in wagering are often faced with numerous questions regarding licensing procedures and what constitutes a legal framework within which they can operate. In recent years, the phenomenon of wagering has gained significant traction, bringing forward discussions about governance and oversight in this sector. Responsible gambling tools — including self-exclusion from 24 hours to permanent account closure, session time limits, and deposit caps — are available in every account at no cost. ELS licensing requires operators to verify player age before account activation, apply responsible gambling tools including deposit and loss limits, and meet data protection standards under Ethiopian law. BetKing Ethiopia operates under a licence issued by the Ethiopian Lottery Service (ELS), the national regulatory body responsible for overseeing licensed gambling operators in Ethiopia.

The country’s market is one of the most dynamic in Africa, supported by more than 134 million people, nearly half under 20, and a rapidly expanding base of mobile users. Officials have framed the decision as a containment measure focused on stopping wagering, freezing financial flows, and securing evidence for ongoing investigations. The nationwide shutdown follows enforcement measures taken in November, when the Ethiopian Lottery Service suspended the licences of 22 betting companies as part of a criminal investigation. Operators remain responsible for unsettled bets and customer balances despite the suspension of their licences.

Guides and Helpful Information

The ELS states that existing liabilities such as customer balances and unsettled wagers remain the operators’ responsibility. Until Ethiopia does that, the country’s 130 million people, the majority of them young and increasingly mobile-connected, will remain in a regulatory black hole. In their place, a new set of brands absorbed the remaining demand. Established local brands including DashBet, Hulusport, betX, and AradaBet competed alongside international platforms targeting the country’s untapped potential. The ELS made clear that the revocation did not erase operators’ obligations to their customers — existing liabilities, including customer balances and unsettled wagers, remained the operators’ legal responsibility. Land-based casinos are limited in Ethiopia, with most operations concentrated around Addis Ababa, though their legal status remains limited.

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• This integration means that participating in online betting no longer requires access to international payment systems or bank accounts, lowering the practical barrier to entry considerably.
• However, online casinos are more easily monitored and, therefore, harder to regulate, so they are subjected to stiffer scrutiny.
• Amole HQ is a convenient payment method for players with Dashen bank accounts who want to deposit and withdraw cash from gaming sites in Ethiopia.
• This impressive roster of providers ensures that Dash Bet’s game library remains fresh and exciting, with new titles added regularly to keep the entertainment flowing.
• The firm says it operates in African countries of Kenya, DRC, Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia.
• We checked the official domains of popular Ethiopian betting brands from outside Ethiopia.
• Users can easily deposit and withdraw funds in Ethiopian Birr, the country's official currency, making it a convenient option for local gamers.
• Game developer SmartSoft launched Habesha Fortune 5 — a slot game built specifically for the Ethiopian market, with symbols representing Ethiopian coffee culture, traditional pottery, and local transport, designed in Amharic.
• BK8 also appeals to Ethiopian users with attractive promotions such as unlimited cashback, first deposit bonuses, and free bet giveaways.
• However, that only applies to B2C licensees; foreign software suppliers can freely offer their services to local brands.
• More impressively, Elephantbet also employs strong safety and security protocols to ensure that players are well-protected at all times
• Ethiopia’s online casinos offer various games to entertain all players.
• The market potential is significant, with a youthful population that is increasingly tech-savvy and interested in sports.
• Engagement with stakeholders, including local governments and businesses, is essential in developing policies that maximize benefits while minimizing potential harms.
• Top online casinos in Ethiopia boast a wide array of games, catering to the diverse tastes of both local and international players.

First, complete the Easybet app download for Android – the Easybet apk – or simply visit the site through your mobile browser, then register a new account with a few basic details. Live betting amplifies this comprehensive coverage further, allowing you to analyse a contest’s constant flux in real time. You can also enter an Easybet promo code during your first deposit to maximise your betting potential. Easybet has quickly become one of the most popular online sports betting platforms in Ethiopia thanks to its broad range of markets, secure payment options, and responsive customer support. The online casino section features an impressive variety of slots, table games, and a live casino with real dealers.

What Ethiopia’s Gambling Rules Cover

On 4 December 2025, it suspended the licences of 22 sports betting firms, citing “information received from the National Intelligence and Security Service” and the arrests as the basis for the decision. In Ethiopia, one of the world’s lower-income economies, the alleged concealment of more than $620 billion in betting-related funds represents a significant financial issue for authorities. Domestic payment aggregators were also accused of hiding transaction volumes behind client confidentiality rules. The agency claimed the funds moved abroad through cryptocurrency exchanges and hawala-style transfer networks. It added that consumers would struggle to recover losses because these companies “are not legally licensed”.

Africa’s gaming market, valued at $2.16 billion in 2024, is projected to reach $10.81 billion by 2033, with Ethiopia poised to play a crucial role in this growth trajectory. As Ethiopia’s gambling industry navigates this transformative period, the stakes are high. Regionally, these tax rates are comparable to those in Kenya, where winnings are taxed at 20% with a 15% operator levy, and South Africa, where provincial taxes range from 6% to 15%. The country, home to over 134 million people with a rapidly expanding mobile user base, is one of Africa’s most dynamic betting markets. These unregulated sites often promise higher payouts and fewer restrictions, creating a tempting alternative for bettors dissatisfied with the domestic market’s offerings. This change poses a particular threat to smaller companies, potentially paving the way for larger, well-capitalized operators to dominate the market.

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Slot Games and Online Casinos for Ethiopian Players

It is also home to virtual games that are fast becoming a mainstay in the world of sports betting. For the seasoned Ethiopian punter, 1xBet is the ultimate choice, offering plenty of sporting events. New and existing users can use the SportyTrader promo code to boost their wagers on the sport of choice. The web and app versions of Betway are easy to navigate, even for new users, and the available diversified payment options make it a popular choice. All betting and gambling activities in the country fall under the Ethiopian National Lottery Administration, the body tasked with ensuring fair practices and user protection. Dedicated to accurate reporting and responsible gambling advocacy, Dubem’s work at iGamingToday.com continues to provide readers with valuable insights into the fast-paced world of casinos and gaming innovation

Prevention and control

The site positions itself as a mobile-first web arcade experience built around quick games, competition, rewards and account-based play. Below you will find a comprehensive list of all the betting sites in Ethiopia, plus links to their individual review pages. Initially it was only the local companies doing so, but a few betting companies operating in other African countries have recently begun to enter and set up shop in the Ethiopian market. The potential size of the Ethiopian betting market is huge and this attracts offshore bookies looking to profit from it.3.

FAQ: Betting Sites in Ethiopia

MelBet, for instance, is actively expanding in Ethiopia due to the country’s youthful population and digital adoption rates. The country’s iGaming revenue is projected to hit $31.22 million in 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.12% through 2030. The Ethiopian sports betting market holds immense potential, but careful navigation of the regulatory landscape and a strategic approach are crucial. In December 2023, the Ethiopian government announced plans to introduce a comprehensive gambling licensing framework in the near future.

• Once your account is funded, you can begin placing bets or playing games right away.
• The challenge for online casinos is to promote their plat, from where such regulations and market presence are limited as compared to offline casinos.
• It is accountable to the Federal Government Ministry of Revenue.
• It also contains online casino games for an added fun.
• Gambling in Ethiopia is overseen by the National Lottery Administration, which operates under the oversight of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.
• Historically, regulations for specific bonus types were not explicitly detailed for the previously legal sports betting vertical.
• The country’s average internet coverage is only about 5%, and because of this and this is expected to rise to 30% by the year 2028.
• Whether you have simple or detailed questions about your account, payments, or technical matters, the Easybet support team is always on hand to guide you and put your mind at ease.
• The web and app versions of Betway are easy to navigate, even for new users, and the available diversified payment options make it a popular choice.
• While the physical outlets may have closed, the betting culture remains resilient, with many shifting to online platforms and underground operations.
• Player tax Not applicable; winnings tax applied to licensed betting before December 2025.
• As Ethiopia navigates this transition, the focus remains on integrity and sustainability.
• During the boom years it licensed dozens of betting companies, and the sector grew at remarkable speed on the back of mobile money and a young, football-mad population.
• As a result, the sector operates in a legal grey area, hindering local market development and driving some users to offshore platforms.
• If there is a problem with deposits, withdrawals, blocked accounts, or unpaid winnings, Ethiopian authorities may not be able to help you recover your money.
• This network witnesses the deep-rooted addiction to sports betting in Ethiopia, where those affected remain determined to place their bets despite the barriers.

Key Highlights of the Report:

Visa and Mastercard are listed but many Ethiopian-issued cards carry international transaction blocks, so mobile wallets remain the practical default. CBEBirr works the same way for Commercial Bank of Ethiopia account holders; mBirr and HelloCash cover players at smaller regional banks and cooperatives in cities like Bahir Dar and Adama. Two-step verification ties your account to your SIM, which matters if you use internet cafes in areas like Merkato or Piazza in Addis Ababa. Password recovery sends a reset PIN to your registered number — typically within 60 seconds.

Best Online Casinos 2026

I’ve spent years analyzing the Ethiopian gambling market and can tell you that finding good information isn’t always easy. The government’s relaunch plans therefore remain some way from implementation, with operators still unable to return to the market. ELS has yet to set out the licensing requirements, application process or timetable for reopening the market.

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• While sports betting and lotteries are legally permitted, iGaming still lacks clear regulations and a formal licensing system.
• The online casino landscape in Ethiopia is at an interesting crossroads in 2025.
• On one hand, the economic benefits are clear, offering a new source of tax revenue and job creation.
• 22Bet have a site in Ethiopia, but they have not actually officially launched.
• Operators that partner with local stakeholders and secure collaboration agreements with local payment processors will increase their chances of success in the Ethiopian market and their ability to operate efficiently.
• While the technology opened the door to massive inflows, regulatory oversight did not expand at the same pace.
• Ethiopia’s iGaming industry has been primarily driven by the proliferation of mobile technology, making it one of the fastest-growing gaming markets in Africa.
• The new provisions increased withholding tax rates on gambling winnings from around 15% to 20%, with a 25% rate applied to lotteries, sports betting, and other games of chance.
• The country, home to over 134 million people with a rapidly expanding mobile user base, is one of Africa’s most dynamic betting markets.
• It ordered the December 2025 revocations, directed banks and payment providers to block betting transactions, and has warned that it will strictly monitor compliance.
• Operator tax Not applicable while the ban is in force; licensed sportsbooks previously paid corporate income tax and betting-specific charges under Ministry of Revenue directives.

In August 2026, the Ethiopian government’s aggressive crackdown on 38 betting companies marked a significant shift in the country’s approach to gambling regulation. Initial efforts include leading the development of new diagnostic instruments for gambling disorder to better reflect populations outside North America and facilitating an expert consensus on diagnostic boundaries. This should include reducing stigma and shame related to gambling, ending advertising and promotion, and a focus on other upstream efforts to prevent and reduce gambling harm. Multisectoral action to reduce gambling harm is required to reduce the potential for gambling to impede progress on SDGs. Gambling harm increases as gambling markets expand, challenging the health and well-being of populations. The preferred regulatory approach of the gambling industry – so-called responsible gambling – adds to this burden by effectively blaming those who experience harm.

The regulator, in coordination with national security and federal police, showed a zero-tolerance policy by shutting down the entire licensed sector, freezing assets, and starting criminal proceedings. All advertising is prohibited due to the market shutdown. The National Lottery Administration historically held the authority to revoke permits for breaches, with the ultimate enforcement action being the nationwide revocation of all licenses in 2025.

Licensing and Security Features

• Tourism is an important sector for Ethiopia, supported by its historical sites, cultural heritage, and growing infrastructure.
• South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya are all drawing plenty of attention with their sizable populations of football-loving bettors.
• Deposits and withdrawals are handled securely, and all transactions are processed with speed and reliability.
• Licensed casinos demonstrate adherence to local and international standards, ensuring fair play and security.
• Cloudbet stands out in Ethiopia for its support of cryptocurrency payments such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, enabling fast and highly secure transactions.
• Many international platforms offer exclusive promotions — including no deposit bonuses and free spins — specifically for new users from Ethiopia.
• Direct casino withdrawal support still depends on the individual cashier, so either service may instead be used after the winnings have already been converted into ETB.
• With an increased focus on responsible gambling, players now have a greater sense of community and social interaction with sports and gaming events than ever before.
• In practice, enforcement gaps exist, and not every platform applies checks rigorously.
• Creating your Dash Bet account through the mobile app is designed to be quick and secure, allowing you to start enjoying slots and online casino games within minutes.
• Ethiopian authorities have taken decisive action against the country’s burgeoning sports-betting sector, suspending licenses of 22 operators found to be in violation of regulatory requirements.
• While online casinos have much more stable internet connections and higher data usage, they are limited to being played within urban centers.
• These features collectively create an environment where Ethiopian players can engage with sports betting in a more strategic and informed manner, similar to the comprehensive experience found at established slots and online casino games platforms that prioritize user engagement and satisfaction.
• It is always advisable that you as a player register and bet with the legally licensed operators in Ethiopia.
• The growing concerns and recent media criticisms has forced both betting firms and the government, to call a press conference at the end of March 2020.

The website operates under a legal Curacao license and uses full encryption to ensure transparency in every transaction. Cloudbet stands out in Ethiopia for its support of cryptocurrency payments such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, enabling fast and highly secure transactions. Its customer support team operates 24/7 in multiple languages, ensuring a seamless experience for players.

Football dominates the betting landscape, with the national team (The Walias) generating massive interest during Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and World Cup qualifiers. Additionally, the regulator aims to develop a unified electronic system for centralised monitoring and oversight of gambling activities. Instead, international firms can participate as service providers, offering technology and gaming solutions to local operators. Only betting shops and lottery organisers can obtain permits, as other forms of gambling remain illegal. Licensed operators contribute significant funds to state coffers, with monthly tax payments reaching tens of millions of ETB. Property owners previously renting out spaces to bookmakers have reportedly been offered alternative tenants.

It provides a fast and secure banking solution, with the added convenience of an Android app for transactions on the go. TeleBirr Kiosk is a rapidly growing online payment platform in Ethiopia, offering swift transaction processing. It provides a wide range of services and features that cater to the needs of its users, ensuring an enjoyable and satisfying time for all.

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Heavy promotion of gambling online and through sport also poses risks of normalizing gambling for children and young people. EGMs can mislead users with design features that encourage extended use. This number is likely much higher in kinship cultures, including among Indigenous peoples. A Swedish study estimated that those with a gambling disorder were 15 times more likely to die by suicide than the general population (4). The decision follows investigations that uncovered irregularities and significant revenue mismanagement exceeding 100 billion birr. The Ethiopian Lottery Service has officially announced the revocation of operating licences for 22 sports betting companies, effective from today.

Historically, several Ethiopia-focused betting platforms were listed as supporting Telebirr deposits, including names such as Paripesa Ethiopia in local betting-payment guides. Ethiopia had a formal legal framework for sports betting, but the position changed sharply when the authorities revoked all sports-betting licences effective 15 December 2025. When choosing a betting site, it’s important to compare Ethiopian welcome bonuses, deposit requirements, withdrawal speed, payment options, and mobile app availability to pick the platform that suits you best. Here’s a quick snapshot of the key betting details in Ethiopia, from regulation and legal age to payments, language and the country’s most popular sport.

The platform serves Ethiopian players who are at least https://habtambet-et.com/ 21 years of age and accepts the Ethiopian Birr (ETB) as its primary account currency, with no currency conversion required for deposits or withdrawals. How does 6Wresearch market report help businesses in making strategic decisions? Jurisdictions with established licensing frameworks enforce fair play standards and responsible gambling measures designed to protect consumers. For Ethiopian bettors seeking safer alternatives, regulated markets outside the country may provide more secure environments. Without official licensing, bettors may encounter unfair betting practices, delayed or withheld payouts, and exposure of personal and financial data to unscrupulous actors. This clarification comes after recent court developments sparked rumors about a potential reopening or regulation of the sports betting sector.

You have read it, it changed nothing, and it is written by people who have never watched somebody go through this. I am not going to give you the standard paragraph about setting limits and playing for fun. What is equally dangerous is the high probability that many customers will go to illegal or offshore platforms where they can get higher winnings. Find the lowest minimums, fastest withdrawals, and biggest bonuses for ETB players. These appeal to users who seek fast results and engaging visual formats. Ethiopian players are mobile-first, frequency-focused, and highly responsive to sports events.

Can I deposit with Telebirr at betting sites?

Today’s casino in Ethiopia landscape reflects years of cultural shifts, regulatory adjustments, and evolving entertainment trends that have shaped how locals and visitors interact with gaming venues. While the market is still relatively small on a global scale, the country has a longer and more complex gambling history than many people realise. The environment is extremely high risk for any form of non-compliance.

Laws are designed not only to foster a safe and ethical gaming environment but also to boost investor confidence in this burgeoning market sector. Join us as we explore the legal framework, the variety of games available, and how these platforms are tailored to meet the preferences of Ethiopian players. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or new to the scene, the growth of this industry within such a culturally rich context is something to watch. We’re diving into the world of Ethiopia online casinos, exploring what makes them tick and why they’re gaining such traction. Abyssinia Law is a legal resource portal providing open access to primary and secondary legal materials for Ethiopia, such as laws, court decisions, articles, contact guidance, and Lawyers Directory – with texts supplemented by online videos, a discussion forum, and a user blog.

• Add in thousands of online casino games, and it’s clear why Chatki has become a favourite in Ethiopia.
• Ethiopia is anticipated to play a vital role in this expansion, supported by its large and youthful population.
• It’s also wise to be aware of the potential for addiction and seek help if needed.
• 6Wresearch actively monitors the Ethiopia Online Gambling and Betting Market and publishes its comprehensive annual report, highlighting emerging trends, growth drivers, revenue analysis, and forecast outlook.
• Even sites have different support options and rules.
• Telebirr and CBE Birr withdrawals settle in 10 to 30 minutes after KYC approval, faster than the 1 to 3 business days required for international card methods.
• Meanwhile, online betting is a more precise term, where there’s a specific outcome that you’re putting your money on.
• Investigations into those companies remain ongoing, and regulators have stated that licence suspensions were imposed pending the outcome of criminal proceedings.
• You have read it, it changed nothing, and it is written by people who have never watched somebody go through this.
• MelBet has specifically identified Ethiopia as a primary expansion target, citing the youth of its population and the level of digital adoption.
• Such partnerships include mobile payment companies, like telecom companies in Ethiopia, to simplify payments and transactions for the unbanked population.

Use only official app sources, and avoid downloads when the operator status is unclear or closed. Always verify the latest status from an official source before using any betting page. Use this page to check brand status, official-source signals, app safety, and payment caution before you trust any login page, APK download, or bonus claim. Although, Bet 251 offers a massive 5,000,000 ETB/147,059 USD payout, and focuses only on football, they still have yet to take a strong foothold in the Ethiopian sports bets market.

Our reviews of Ethiopia’s betting brands stay live as a record of the market as it was, we track every regulatory signal through our newsroom, and the moment licences are issued again, this page will name who holds one. Since then, no operator holds a licence to take bets in Ethiopia, a situation our newsroom examined six months into the shutdown. It ordered the December 2025 revocations, directed banks and payment providers to block betting transactions, and has warned that it will strictly monitor compliance. Today the Administration’s role has flipped from licensing to enforcement. During the boom years it licensed dozens of betting companies, and the sector grew at remarkable speed on the back of mobile money and a young, football-mad population. A 4.5 in Ethiopia means one of the strongest options the market offered before the shutdown — not that the site matches a betting site operating under a different licence, in a different currency, somewhere else.