Ethiopia’s ambitious crackdown on sports betting, which saw over 6,000 betting shops shut down across Addis Ababa and other cities, has been in effect for some time now. This effort has led many to abandon betting, easing some of the related social issues. While the physical outlets may have closed, the betting culture remains resilient, with many shifting to online platforms and underground operations. This ongoing challenge underscores the difficulty of regulating a deeply entrenched industry that is increasingly intertwined with the digital world.

Despite the efforts to crack down on sports betting by shutting down physical betting shops, the industry remains vibrant, particularly in the digital sphere. The closure of physical betting shops has not deterred bettors; instead, it has driven the industry online. Websites like Betika, Best Bet, Hulu Sport Betting, Anbessabet, Ahadu Birr, Qwickbet ,Arada Bet,Flash Sport Bet, Ethiowin, Santim Bet, Axumbet  and many more have become popular destinations for those looking to place bets. These platforms offer a range of services, including live betting, virtual games, and jackpots, making them accessible and appealing to a wide audience.

In addition to the thriving online betting scene that spans across all parts of the country, including Addis Ababa, betting shops have found creative ways to stay in the game. In Hawassa and Southern parts of the country, these shops continue to operate openly, while in cities like Adama,Gondar and many others have gone underground. This network witnesses the deep-rooted addiction to sports betting in Ethiopia, where those affected remain determined to place their bets despite the barriers.

Behailu Engida, an employed resident of Addis Ababa, is a bettor. He is a football enthusiast who has been engaged in sports betting for several years. Before the closure of physical betting shops, Engida would often visit local betting houses in the Addisu Gebeya area.

“Despite my resolve to abstain from betting, the moment I received a message inviting me to place bets using my phone, my resolve crumbled. My brain couldn’t resist the temptation, and I found myself succumbing to the habit once again. Even though I still don’t want to bet, I must admit that I am addicted,” he confessed.

He explained that once you create an account on the betting website and link your bank or Telebirr account for deposits, the process of betting digitally is straightforward.

Following the closure of physical betting shops, Engida, like many others, shifted to online platforms, where he now bets more frequently than before. Sites such as Betika, Hulu Sport Betting, and Axumbet have become his go-to destinations.

The National Lottery Association views sports betting as both entertainment and a source of tax revenue. However, the NLA only permits sports-related betting and games that can be predicted, excluding those run by computer systems. Other forms of gambling, such as casino games (unless specifically allowed), card games, skill games, Keno, unlicensed betting shops, betting by individuals under 21, activities like khat chewing in shops, and operations near schools and religious institutions are prohibited or unlicensed.

“As we do not have the mandate to ban betting, we are instead closing branches that fail to comply with regulations,” said Tewodros Neway, Public Relations Manager of the National Lottery Administration. He added that branches meeting the necessary requirements to open sports betting shops are allowed to continue operating.

While The Ministry of Women and Social Affairs is a strong advocate for banning sports betting, citing its role in causing social crises, discouraging young people from working, and leading to psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and even suicide. The Association of Sports Betting Organizations defends the operations of sports betting companies, arguing that they operate within the law and contribute significantly to the country’s tax revenue.