The Ethiopian Lottery Service has officially revoked the licenses of all sports betting companies operating in the country, citing widespread legal violations, financial misconduct, and threats to national security.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Lottery Service announced that the decision was taken in accordance with directives issued by the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and under the regulatory authority granted to the Service by law. The revocation of licenses took effect immediately on December 15, 2025.
The Service stated that the measure applies equally to all sports betting companies, including those that had already been officially banned in the past but continued operating in various forms. The decision, it said, was taken to protect the public interest following a comprehensive national review of the betting and financial sectors.
According to the statement, an ongoing investigation revealed widespread illegal practices, including repeated violations of licensing agreements, unauthorized operations, and illegal money transfers. The Lottery Service emphasized that these activities pose serious risks to the country’s financial system and national security.
“The investigation has clearly revealed widespread illegal practices, violations of licensing agreements, and illegal financial transactions that threaten national security,” the statement read.
Immediate Suspension of All Betting Activities
As part of the enforcement measures, the Ethiopian Lottery Service issued strict instructions to all sports betting organizations. Effective immediately:
- All betting activities—whether conducted in person, online, or through digital platforms—must be fully suspended.
- All deposit and payment gateways linked to betting operations must cease functioning.
- No new bets may be accepted under any circumstances.
- All server data, financial records, and user information must be preserved and kept strictly confidential.
- Any attempt to destroy, alter, hide, or tamper with evidence will be treated as a criminal offense and prosecuted under Ethiopian law.
Directives to Financial Institutions
The Lottery Service also issued binding instructions to financial institutions, including banks, payment instrument issuers, and payment system operators. These institutions have been directed to immediately block all betting-related transactions and prevent betting companies from conducting any form of financial or sales activity.
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.
Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance
The Ethiopian Lottery Service warned that any individual or institution found violating the decision will be held legally accountable. Enforcement actions will be taken against operators, facilitators, and financial intermediaries that fail to comply with the suspension order.
The announcement marks one of the most sweeping regulatory crackdowns on the betting industry in Ethiopia to date, reflecting the government’s growing focus on financial regulation, consumer protection, and national security concerns.
