The 22 companies suspended on 4 December 2025, including regional brand Betika, lost their permits along with all other former licensees on 15 December 2025; a court decision in favor of one operator was stayed on appeal. Authorities put alleged unreported revenue at more than ETB 100 billion. Not applicable to gambling; the National Bank of Ethiopia's identity and anti-money-laundering rules apply to the payment institutions that were ordered to stop processing betting transactions. There was never a licence class for casinos, online casino games or poker.

With internet access expanding and smartphone usage growing, mobile gambling is becoming increasingly popular in Ethiopia. These rare bonuses give you a small amount of bonus money just for creating an account – no deposit required. These services allow you to fund your casino account directly from your mobile phone, often without needing a bank account. Ethiopian players enjoy a diverse range of online casino games, though preferences vary based on personal taste and cultural factors.

Finding the best betting sites available in Ethiopia in 2026 means looking beyond big bonus claims and focusing on safety, odds, payment convenience and overall usability. This will ensure that sports gambling positively contributes to Ethiopian sports' development while safeguarding individuals' interests and wellbeing and the sports' integrity. But as the industry evolves, these regulations will need ongoing review and updates to remain effective. The menace of match-fixing, wherein outcomes are manipulated to favor specific gamblers, poses a genuine threat.

Among other things, monetary prizes won through online gambling are supposed to be credited to a player’s account within two days. What has not previously been publicly reported is the company’s connection to Mario Gennaro’s network. Shabiki is one of Kenya’s better-known online betting and casino platforms and offers sports betting, jackpots and thousands of online casino games. Kenyan online gambling company Shabiki has recently faced allegations from players concerning bonuses and winnings that they say were promised but not properly paid or honoured. The crackdown had begun earlier in December with the suspension of 22 betting companies and arrests connected to allegations that operators had concealed more than 100 billion birr in revenue that should have been reported to the government.

• By the beginning of the 21st century, approximately four out of five people in Western nations gambled at least occasionally.
• The availability of support helplines and counseling services is gradually improving, though access outside major cities remains limited.
• For starters, crypto casinos often offer faster transaction times, lower fees, and greater privacy.
• Amharic is Ethiopia’s official language, but the country is highly multilingual, with over 80 languages and more than 200 dialects spoken nationwide.
• This network witnesses the deep-rooted addiction to sports betting in Ethiopia, where those affected remain determined to place their bets despite the barriers.
• Until recently, Ethiopians seeking to place bets had to settle for international sports betting sites which include some of the world's most popular brands.
• While there are still no specific regulations that govern this sector, thousands of local players are already enjoying sports betting and casino games on international platforms.
• The market was not enormous by global standards — analytics firm Blask estimated the competitive earning baseline at around $46.5 million over the 12 months preceding the shutdown, ranking Ethiopia 87th of 112 markets tracked.
• The growth of casino venues has also encouraged investment in hospitality upgrades, improved amenities, and new entertainment concepts aligned with global expectations.
• M88 also features an appealing VIP program for loyal players, offering valuable rewards and exclusive privileges that enhance the overall betting experience in Ethiopia.
• 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.
• For enthusiasts and stake holders, history and current landscape are crucial.
• If a user deposits with an offshore or unlicensed operator, there may be no local regulator to handle complaints, payment disputes, voided bets, or frozen accounts.
• 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.
• For operators with localization capabilities and compliance experience, this is not just a challenge—it’s a historic entry window.

Unregulated Forms of Gambling in Ethiopia:

Ethiopia does not have a comprehensive online gambling law, which leaves much of the sector in legal grey territory. Players should be aware that gambling under the legal age carries risk regardless of how easy access appears. In practice, enforcement gaps exist, and not every platform applies checks rigorously. The Central African Republic has Africa's youngest population in 2026, with a median age of just 14.6 years — the world's lowest, per UN World Population Prospects 2024. Today, its mobile adaptation—Tongits Go—has elevated its presence, offering a reimagined experience for the digital generation. It will tackle issues ranging from technological safeguards and public health integration, to policy harmonisation and vulnerable population protection.

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.

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Even though the country is met with many problems regarding their gambling regulation, the people are trying to improve and ensure a better regulatory framework for their country. Ethiopia has an established legal framework regarding their gambling industry. Since then, Ethiopia has actually been enforcing gambling regulation, and in this article Ethiopia’s legal framework regarding their gambling industry will be covered.

• At Chatki, bonuses are designed to give Ethiopian players extra value.
• Rather famous for the number of sports that are available and an easy-to-navigate website.
• This move has caused substantial waves in the industry, as reported by Betrush, a global betting insights platform.
• 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.
• Your personal information stays confidential and is used only for legitimate operational purposes, ensuring the highest level of privacy at all times.
• 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.
• Well, it’s because we found many positive attributes to talk about when we thoroughly assessed this betting platform.
• The sportsbook also features basketball, tennis, volleyball, handball, and various other sports that attract significant betting interest in the Ethiopian market.
• With a huge selection of games, exciting promotions, and security you can rely on, it’s the ultimate destination for online casino play.
• The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) and four of its senior military officials,…
• This guide summarises what is verifiable right now, what remains operator-specific, and exactly what to check before depositing a single birr.
• In this country the conversation is harder than the decision, and I know that, and I am still telling you to have it.
• Fans are able to wager on international sites, with no new local regulations expected soon because of Ethiopia’s limited internet availability.

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• This comprehensive dash bet review explores everything you need to know about accessing this premium casino platform through its innovative mobile application.
• Earlier this month, regulators had already revoked the licences of 22 specific betting companies following investigations into alleged revenue concealment exceeding 100 billion birr.
• Chidubem is a seasoned casino journalist for iGamingToday.com, bringing over six years of expertise in the online and land-based gambling industry.
• This burgeoning industry has the potential to generate significant revenue and create numerous job opportunities, from customer service representatives to technical roles in IT and cybersecurity within the betting platforms themselves.
• The government says the reforms aim to raise funds while curbing gambling harms.
• For more experienced players, Bet24.et highlights strategies and tips that can help improve decision-making when placing bets.
• Ethiopia has a developing online gambling market with growing interest in sports betting and casino gaming, though infrastructure challenges remain.
• By focusing on these aspects, you can find a secure and enjoyable gaming experience in the best Ethiopia online casino.
• Opportunities exist for online gambling operators to cater to the young and tech-savvy population by offering a wide range of betting options and convenient payment methods.
• The official currency of Ethiopia is called the Birr, or to be more precise the Second Birr.
• It comes as authorities continue enforcement action against operators and a legal challenge moves through the courts.
• The team communicates in both Amharic and English to serve every player, and Easybet keeps things easy with clear, friendly answers.

In the 21st Century there began a gradual, albeit, irregular, shift in the official attitude towards gambling, from considering it a sin to considering it a vice and a human weakness and, finally, to seeing it as a mostly harmless and even entertaining activity. Currently, sports betting (both retail and iGaming), lotteries, and land-based casinos are all operating legally within the regulatory framework. Ethiopia's gambling market is not illegal and is gradually moving towards legalization and structured growth. However, with a population of 130 million, even a small percentage still represents a large user base. As a result, the sector operates in a legal grey area, hindering local market development and driving some users to offshore platforms.

Because online gambling in Ethiopia isn’t regulated, it’s especially important to choose reputable platforms. Because odds change in real time, you can take advantage of momentum shifts, injuries, or tactical changes to make smarter decisions. Once your account is funded, you can begin placing bets or playing games right away. For starters, crypto casinos often offer faster transaction times, lower fees, and greater privacy.

Google Blocked 270 Million gambling ads in 2025, Yet Regulators Are Still Increasing Stakes

For Android users, visit the official Dash Bet Ethiopia website and navigate to the mobile section where you’ll find a direct download link for the APK file. Regular updates ensure compatibility with the latest operating system versions while maintaining support for older devices that still meet the minimum requirements. The application has been optimized to function efficiently even on devices with modest specifications, making it accessible to a wide range of Ethiopian players. Designed with Ethiopian players in mind, the application delivers lightning-fast performance, intuitive navigation, and access to hundreds of premium casino games at your fingertips.

Zimbabwe’s Online Betting Market in 2026: Local Operators, Digital Growth and Player Choice

It comes as authorities continue enforcement action against operators and a legal challenge moves through the courts. Ethiopia is preparing to relaunch sports betting and digital lotteries under tighter controls after a draft audit identified a reported Br27.5 billion shortfall in payments due to the state. Outside of iGaming, life is a mix of family time, growing his own vegetables and getting outdoors for a bit of hunting. That revenue could be used towards creating new jobs for the people of the country.

• The ELS states that existing liabilities such as customer balances and unsettled wagers remain the operators’ responsibility.
• Recent suspensions of over 80 licenses highlight a commitment to stricter oversight, promoting a safer gaming environment.
• Ethiopian business outlet Shega reported at the time of the 15 December revocations that industry sources estimated the sector had processed between ETB800 million and ETB1 billion in transactions daily before the shutdown.
• First, choose a platform that fits your interests — whether it’s focused on sports betting, casino games, or a mix of both.
• Multisectoral action to reduce gambling harm is required to reduce the potential for gambling to impede progress on SDGs.
• In 2021, Ethiopia issued new regulations about this rapidly growing market.
• Due to the varying legal status of online gambling in different jurisdictions, visitors should ensure they have sought legal counsel before proceeding to a casino operator.
• As the government enhances industry oversight and transparency, it is likely to amend current laws to reinforce operator responsibility and maintain the integrity of the legal gambling sector.
• As for the former employees of the betting shops, officials claim that they are actively being assisted in finding alternative sources of income.
• Online gambling is growing in Ethiopia as internet penetration and mobile technology are growing.
• Local betting shops and state-run lotteries are legal and common, but the country’s legal code doesn’t yet address digital platforms.
• Looking ahead, experts concur that sustainable growth hinges on balanced regulation and public awareness.
• Compare Ethiopia online casinos for real money play, fast withdrawals and secure ETB cashouts.
• They recommend that Ethiopia study markets such as Kenya and South Africa, where comparable levies exist but are supported by clear compliance structures and digital monitoring systems.

Best Betting Sites in Ethiopia

Moreover, they need to have some free funds as Fanosbet only offers real money gambling services. Players just need to be above the age of 18 to register their accounts hence start their betting adventures. The site itself is beautifully and wittingly structured hence making navigation on the site pretty smooth and easy. With the flurry of Ethiopian gambling lovers having diverse gambling interests, Habtam took the noble decision to offer a varied range of gambling services. The good thing about Dash Bet Ethiopia is that it’s fully licensed by the National Lottery Administration of Ethiopia This is necessitated by the fact that safety and security for the punter are the most important attributes when settling at any online betting site.

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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.

Please also be aware that GamblersPro.com operates independently and as such is not controlled by any casino or gambling operator. Due to the varying legal status of online gambling in different jurisdictions, visitors should ensure they have sought legal counsel before proceeding to a casino operator. His work focuses on real-money availability, withdrawal speed, banking methods, payment friction and how regulatory differences affect players across jurisdictions.

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Designed for easy navigation and quick access to every feature from a mobile device, the app makes betting enjoyable wherever you are. Make the most of generous promotions and the Easybet bonus designed to reward loyalty and increase your chances of a big win. To experience the full thrill of casino games, simply use the Easybet login to access your account, explore the gaming options available, and choose a game that matches your preferences and budget. The live casino is powered by industry-leading providers, ensuring crystal-clear video and smooth performance throughout every session. The Easybet casino provides https://mezzo-bet.com/ a varied selection of games from leading developers, ensuring every player can find the perfect game to match their preferences.

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Chatki Casino offers one of the widest selections of online casino games available in Ethiopia. Once you register at Chatki, you can deposit securely using local payment methods and immediately access hundreds of games. Many first-time players wonder how online casinos operate in Ethiopia.

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.

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Online betting is becoming increasingly popular in Ethiopia, a country with a strong passion for sports and a growing betting community. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Payment access can also be unstable because enforcement has extended beyond operators to the wider betting ecosystem, including payment channels. If a user deposits with an offshore or unlicensed operator, there may be no local regulator to handle complaints, payment disputes, voided bets, or frozen accounts. Even if some betting websites remain reachable, players should not treat them as locally licensed or protected by Ethiopian regulation. Before the full shutdown, the regulator had already suspended 22 betting operators as part of a wider investigation.

Even sites have different support options and rules. Read them carefully to understand the rules and restrictions. Our guides make you capable of taking data-driven decisions while selecting platforms. In short, online betting in Ethiopia has the potential for both thrill and profit. In this regard, “Ethiopians Betting” examines detailed areas of Ethiopian betting, favorite sport, rules, and top betting sites in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia’s gambling laws don’t specifically address online casinos, creating what experts call a “gray area.” That’s why I’ve created this comprehensive guide covering everything from the legal framework to payment methods and game options. The court set aside the regulator’s decision after finding that Hulu Sport had not been given an opportunity to answer the allegations.

With its wide range of betting markets, high-quality casino games, and outstanding customer service, Easybet Ethiopia remains the go-to destination for players across the country. The Easybet mobile app offers many features tailored for Ethiopian bettors, including Amharic language support, local payment options, a fast Easybet mobile login, and a smooth, responsive interface. New and returning customers alike find that installing the app and setting up an account is quick, so you can start placing bets without delay.

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While social concerns have long plagued the industry, the government’s primary justification for the total shutdown centered on illicit financial flows and national security. The Ethiopian Lottery Service (ELS) has announced that the decision applies to all operators, both active and those previously under suspension. As Ethiopia continues adjusting its legal framework, the interplay between regulators, operators, and consumer advocates will shape how sustainable and inclusive the sector becomes.

On one hand, the economic benefits are clear, offering a new source of tax revenue and job creation. This burgeoning industry has the potential to generate significant revenue and create numerous job opportunities, from customer service representatives to technical roles in IT and cybersecurity within the betting platforms themselves. The surge in online betting in Ethiopia is not just changing how fans engage with sports; it’s also making a noticeable impact on the economy. Sports betting in Ethiopia is more than just a passing trend; it’s rapidly becoming a significant part of the sports culture, intertwining with the everyday lives of sports enthusiasts. The top review sites now include dedicated sections for crypto-friendly platforms, offering comparisons and step-by-step guides for beginners.

For operators with localization capabilities and compliance experience, this is not just a challenge—it’s a historic entry window. TC-Gaming White Label has always focused on global gambling industry trends, especially the legalization process and localized development of emerging African gambling markets. For example, 56 out of every 100 people have a mobile phone, and 46% of adults over 25 have an account with a financial institution or mobile money provider—providing a strong foundation for gambling-related payments.

• Visit Dash Bet Ethiopia open now and discover your next favorite game among hundreds of premium titles, all backed by secure technology, fair play guarantees, and responsible gambling casino tools that keep your entertainment safe and enjoyable.
• Land-based casino options in Ethiopia are limited, primarily operating in Addis Ababa and catering to tourists and the business community.
• From your Easybet login my account dashboard you can manage deposits and withdrawals through numerous convenient methods, ensuring easy access to funds and fast payouts.
• Sports betting in Ethiopia is more than just a passing trend; it’s rapidly becoming a significant part of the sports culture, intertwining with the everyday lives of sports enthusiasts.
• With its wide range of betting markets, high-quality casino games, and outstanding customer service, Easybet Ethiopia remains the go-to destination for players across the country.
• They offer unique products & features like Betika Fasta, Betika Super League, ComboBet, Live Betting & Jackpots.
• Betting sites in Lesotho are a special, dynamic space for online casinos and sports be­tting.
• This rapid growth was powered by mobile networks, digital payments, and online platforms that allowed deposits, wagers, and withdrawals to move instantly without relying on physical betting shops.
• New and existing users can use the SportyTrader promo code to boost their wagers on the sport of choice.
• The platforms cater not only to the domestic market but also attract international users, reflecting the potential for growth in this sector.
• These figures help frame the regulatory focus on diverse game categories beyond traditional lottery models.
• The country's large population (over 120 million people) creates substantial market potential despite relatively low per-capita participation rates.

Overall, Ethiopia offers significant opportunities for investors and operators seeking growth in an increasingly formalized African gaming landscape. Addressing these issues through localized content, automated compliance solutions, and player education about responsible gaming could yield sustainable growth. Mobile money services dominate the payment landscape due to limited banking penetration and the widespread use of mobile phones. Sports betting, with its immersive and exhilarating environment, remains a favorite, while lotteries attract a broad socioeconomic audience. 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.

Operators must adhere to established protocols to maintain their licenses and ensure fair play. Typically, the legal gambling age varies, but strict enforcement measures are in place to comply with this regulation. One significant aspect relates to age restrictions; operators must ensure that they do not engage minors in any gambling activities. This process guarantees that all parties adhere to stipulated regulations, fostering accountability and transparency in the sector. These laws dictate the conduct of betting operations, ensuring that activities are performed within a legal and regulated environment. The existing regulations concerning wagering activities in this region are outlined in various gambling laws enacted by the government.

• This therefore means when players settle at the site, they can enjoy a wide variety of gambling services.
• Ethiopia is an attractive market for new entrants with its youthful population and developing digital infrastructure.
• While gambling legislation in Ethiopia remains under development, the Ethiopian National Lottery Administration (ENLA) currently oversees all lottery and sports betting activities.
• However, iGaming (such as slots, roulette, baccarat, etc.) remains in a legal "grey area."
• Consequently, up­on the attraction of sports betting sector, Ethiopia was so fast in regulation and expansion of the industry.
• However, he noted that there are currently complaints about the 15% tax on turnover for gaming brands.
• Currently, most online casinos available to Ethiopian players are international platforms rather than locally-based ones.
• The Service stressed that it will closely monitor compliance with the decision in coordination with relevant government bodies, exercising its mandate as a regulatory and enforcement authority.
• This commitment to safe, fast, and transparent banking is one of the reasons Chatki stands out as the best online casino in Ethiopia.
• They offer a focus on football and at least 2 weekly football jackpots.
• This approach helped the industry establish legitimacy and lay the foundation for long term growth.
• Your selection will obviously depend on the odds offered, so you will want to examine the range of odds available before you make a decision.

Treatment for gambling disorder has a low rate of uptake, with an estimated 0.14% of the population seeking formal and informal help for current problems. Universal, population-wide public health approaches are required to prevent gambling harm. Sponsorship or other association with popular sporting leagues, and the colocation of gambling products in social settings, are key mechanisms.

• 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.
• Such changes are likely to be critical as Ethiopia looks to balance innovation with regulatory oversight.
• Dejene however stated that the NLA is currently reconsidering its taxation policy, taking into account the experiences of other countries in the region.
• The Ethiopian Lottery Service warned that any individual or institution found violating the decision will be held legally accountable.
• On the other hand, it may steer the market toward state monopolies, potentially limiting consumer choice and expanding government control over gambling.
• The Ethiopian Lottery Service revoked every sports betting licence effective 15 December 2025 and prohibited betting by digital, manual or any other means; casinos and online casino games were never licensed and lotteries are a state monopoly.
• The regulator explains that this tax is primarily a measure of restriction aimed at deterring operators from seeking easy profits and further protecting consumers from dishonest service providers.
• Additionally, the growing disposable income and changing consumer preferences towards digital entertainment have contributed to the market`s growth.
• It remains unclear who is the top player today with the return of SportPesa under Milestone.
• With a population of 120 million belonging to 80 different ethnic groups, this northeast African nation covers 1.1 million square km.
• Protecting young people from the negative effects of betting was cited as a primary motive, but not everyone supports this viewpoint.
• Mobile technology proved to be the key catalyst, as affordable smartphones and improving internet connectivity brought betting to people who had never set foot in a retail shop.
• According to the GA-20 criteria, 90.4 % were reported to be non-compulsive gamblers while 9.6 % were compulsive gamblers.

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The regulator linked the decision to a nationwide investigation, alleged breaches of licence terms, illegal activity, money laundering concerns, and threats to national security. We recommend avoiding unlicensed offshore betting sites and using only operators that can show clear, current authorisation to operate legally in Ethiopia. Offshore bookmakers may not be subject to Ethiopian betting rules, local consumer protection, payment controls, or dispute procedures. Bet only for entertainment, set limits, do not borrow money to gamble, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.

Problem gambling in adolescents: what are the psychological, social and financial consequences?

The risk of addiction is a serious concern, with the excitement of gambling and the chance of winning large sums of money potentially leading individuals to gamble excessively. However, sports gambling also has potential downsides that need careful management. Sports gambling in Ethiopia indeed has a notable and diverse impact on the country's sports landscape, encompassing both positive and negative aspects. The Ethiopian government has recognized both the potential advantages and hazards of sports gambling. Such actions are detrimental to the core principles of sportsmanship and have the potential to undermine the trust and confidence shared among fans and players alike.

Ranking 6 reputable best betting sites in Ethiopia

Internet access remains a challenge in Ethiopia, with only about 17% of the population having reliable access. All reputable online casinos will verify your age before allowing you to create an account or withdraw winnings. With its variety of promising features and immense potential for future development, this tool is truly a game changer! This guide summarises what is verifiable right now, what remains operator-specific, and exactly what to check before depositing a single birr. The Ethiopian Lottery Service (ELS) has issued a public notice confirming that the country’s sports betting ban remains in force, seven months after regulators revoked every operating licence in the sector.

At the moment QwickBet only offers sports betting and jackpots, but there is a high likelihood that more betting products will be added in the near future. This site has everything for everyone; hence, it’s essentially a one-stop shop for all gamers. Among the plethora of Ethiopian online betting sites that Ethiopian sports punters and casino players can settle for is the highly accommodative Kurubet betting site.

Offshore Betting Platforms Gaining Attention

Dejene also expressed concerns about responsible gambling in Ethiopia, particularly given the country’s large youth population. Playing with someone else's documents or payment accounts leads to confiscated winnings at withdrawal time. For international operators and investors eyeing Ethiopia’s roughly 130 million consumers, the immediate message from Addis Ababa remains unchanged. The comments suggest that while Ethiopia’s authorities remain focused on controlling betting activity, the debate has shifted from whether the industry should exist to how it should be governed. Beza Girma, ELS’ CEO, told the same hearing that splitting oversight of betting between two ministries had made it difficult to control the sector, implement policy and enforce accountability. Despite the current ban, government officials have not ruled out a future framework for the sector.