Exploring the State of Gambling in DR Congo

Gambling has become an increasingly popular pastime in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), driven largely by the surge in sports betting across Africa.

From bustling betting shops in major cities to a growing online presence, the gaming industry in the DRC is vibrant yet complex.

We will explore the current state of gambling in the DRC, including its legal framework, popular betting options, the role of technology, and ongoing government reforms aimed at regulating this booming sector.

Legal Landscape and Regulatory Environment

Sports betting and other forms of gambling are legal in the DRC, but the regulatory framework remains underdeveloped.

The main legislation governing gambling activities dates back to a general ordinance from 2005, which allows companies to apply for licenses to organize sports betting games.

However, there is no specific regulatory authority dedicated solely to overseeing gambling operations, and online betting exists in a legal grey area without explicit laws banning or regulating it.

Recognizing the need for modernization, the Congolese government has accelerated reforms in 2025 to create a comprehensive legal framework for gambling.

A draft bill was adopted to set clear rules for games of chance, aiming to boost state revenue and combat money laundering.

The legislation also focuses on protecting minors and vulnerable players, introducing specific taxes on winnings and gross gaming revenue, and establishing strict operational guidelines for gambling operators.

Despite these efforts, enforcement remains a challenge. The gambling sector generates over $1 billion annually, yet the state reportedly collects only about $1 million in tax revenue due to the prevalence of illegal operators and insufficient oversight.

The government is working to strengthen regulatory mechanisms, including plans to establish a monitoring commission to track suspicious transactions and ensure proper tax compliance.

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Licensed Bookmakers and Betting Shops

The DRC hosts a range of licensed bookmakers, both local and international, offering diverse betting opportunities.

Popular operators include Betika Congo, Sportpesa Congo, 1xBet, Premierbet, and Betpawa Congo. These bookmakers provide access to various sports markets and betting types, catering to a growing base of enthusiastic punters.

Physical betting shops are widespread in urban centers like Kinshasa and Kisangani. In Kisangani alone, there are 44 licensed betting parlors where bettors can place wagers starting from as little as 500 Congolese francs (approximately 32 cents).

These shops are social hubs for sports fans, especially football enthusiasts, and generate significant daily foot traffic, sometimes serving over 100 bettors per day.

Betting shops also contribute to the local economy through monthly taxes—about 118,000 Congolese francs ($75) per shop—and provide employment opportunities. However, regulatory gaps have led to issues such as underage gambling, which remains a concern among authorities and advocates.

The Rise of Online Betting

The digital transformation has propelled online sports betting into the spotlight in the DRC. Platforms like Betpawa Congo, Premierbet, and Jengabets offer convenient access to live betting, jackpot games, and a variety of sports markets from mobile devices and computers.

Although online betting is not explicitly regulated, it is generally treated as legal, with no reports of prosecution against players. This has encouraged many Congolese bettors to engage with both domestic and international online bookmakers.

The lack of a dedicated regulatory body for online gambling, however, means that bettors must exercise caution and prioritize licensed and reputable sites to avoid fraud and ensure fair play.

Popular Sports for Betting

Football dominates the sports betting landscape in the DRC, reflecting the country’s passion for the game. The national team, known as the Leopards, along with the domestic Linafoot league, attracts significant betting interest. Bettors can wager on match results, over/under goals, correct scores, and other popular bet types.

Basketball is also gaining traction as a betting sport, buoyed by the country’s strong basketball culture and notable players like Dikembe Mutombo. Bets on NBA games, FIBA tournaments, and African basketball leagues are common, with moneyline and point spread bets being popular choices.

Rugby is an emerging sport in the DRC with growing betting interest. The national rugby team, the Simbas, and the domestic rugby league provide opportunities for wagers on match outcomes, handicaps, and total points.

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Payment Methods and Accessibility

The DRC offers a variety of secure and convenient payment methods for bettors, facilitating easy deposits and withdrawals. Mobile money services such as Vodacom M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and MTN Mobile Money are widely used due to their accessibility and speed.

Debit and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are also accepted by many bookmakers, alongside e-wallets like Orange Money and Afrimoney.

Bank transfers remain an option, though they tend to be slower. The diversity of payment options helps accommodate bettors from different regions and with varying levels of access to banking infrastructure.

Responsible Gambling Initiatives

With the rapid growth of gambling in the DRC, responsible gambling has become a critical focus. The government and operators like the state-run Societe Nationale de Loterie (SONAL) promote awareness about gambling addiction and offer tools such as self-exclusion options for players at risk.

Staff training to identify problem gambling behaviors and provide support is increasingly emphasized. Public education campaigns aim to encourage bettors to gamble within their means, set budgets, and seek help if needed.

The government has also established helplines and collaborates with non-profit organizations to provide counseling and support services.

Economic Impact and Challenges

The gambling industry in the DRC is a significant economic force, generating over $1 billion annually. However, the state’s share of this revenue is disproportionately low due to widespread illegal operations and weak enforcement of tax laws.

This revenue gap limits the government’s ability to fund social programs aimed at poverty alleviation and combating unemployment.

The government’s ongoing reforms seek to formalize the sector, improve tax collection, and protect consumers. Introducing a clear legal framework and stricter licensing requirements is expected to curb illegal gambling and increase state revenues substantially.

Conclusion

The gambling industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo is vibrant and growing, fueled by a passionate sports culture and expanding digital access.

While sports betting is legal and enjoyed by many, the sector faces challenges related to regulation, taxation, and responsible gambling.

Recent government reforms signal a commitment to modernizing the industry, protecting consumers, and capturing greater economic benefits for the country.

As these changes take effect, the DRC’s gambling landscape is poised for more structured growth, offering safer and more enjoyable betting experiences for its citizens.

For bettors, the key is to engage responsibly, choose licensed operators, and stay informed about the evolving regulatory environment to make the most of the exciting opportunities the DRC’s gambling industry offers.