Betting Banned in Addis Ababa: What This Means for Ethiopias Gambling Industry

Bet24.et is a trusted source for players in Ethiopia who want reliable information about online casinos and sports betting platforms. Looking ahead, experts concur that sustainable growth hinges on balanced regulation and public awareness. Platforms such as jambobet are increasingly incorporating responsible gambling tools, including spending limits and activity reports, reflecting growing industry responsibility. Meanwhile, consumer protection initiatives emphasize that gambling should remain recreational and within means.

EaglePredict promotes only betting platforms that are legally authorised by Ethiopia’s National Lottery Administration/National Lottery Service, where applicable. Gambling should remain a form of entertainment, not a way to make money. The best bonus is not always the biggest headline offer, so it is smarter to compare the wagering rules, odds requirements and expiry period before claiming. On its Ethiopia-facing page, Beguma Bet currently lists a minimum deposit of ETB50 or the local-currency equivalent, but that should still be confirmed in the cashier before funding an account.

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”.

Best Online Casinos 2026

The government says the reforms aim to raise funds while curbing gambling harms. These platforms often advertise higher payouts and fewer restrictions, drawing players away from regulated operators and undermining the government’s efforts to strengthen oversight. Effective July 17, 2025, the government increased withholding tax on winnings from around 15% to between 20% and 25%, while maintaining a 15% turnover tax on operators’ total stakes or sales. Analysts say the reforms could test the balance between growth and regulation.

This includes wagering requirements, participating games, contribution percentages, cashout limits for winnings from bonuses, and so on. So far, we’ve given you a couple of handy tips on what each player must take into account when choosing an online casino. As no online casinos support the Second Birr as the available currency, players need to look for an alternative. The official currency of Ethiopia is called the Birr, or to be more precise the Second Birr.

• Slots are the most popular choice, offering quick gameplay and exciting bonuses.
• Other key features that set 1xBet apart include competitive odds, regular bonuses and promotions, and robust data protection measures.
• Local governments can leverage these funds to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare services, ultimately benefiting residents.
• The regulator has stated that it “will strictly monitor the implementation of this decision” and warned that any party continuing to operate or facilitate betting in defiance of the order “will be held legally accountable.”
• Bet251 is one of the most developed betting sites and they focus mainly on football betting.
• Industry suppliers are building Ethiopia-specific products.
• Bet994 is available through either agent shops or online through a fun and easy web platform.
• The platform has also incorporated mobile payment structures for its users, making it easy for the ordinary bettor to access services easily.
• While no specific market share data for sports betting, the sports betting industry will be the largest segment by revenue and number of active users.
• It offers secure transactions and flexible limits, making it a popular choice for online casino users in the region.

It is crucial to ensure that the operator holds the necessary permits to provide betting services. Participants should be aware of responsible betting practices and the potential for negative outcomes. The Ethiopian government aims to regulate the betting industry to promote fairness and protect consumers, but enforcement can be inconsistent. However, illegal betting activities continue to exist, often operating outside of government oversight, which poses risks both for participants and operators. Such changes are likely to be critical as Ethiopia looks to balance innovation with regulatory oversight.

Online Casino Games in Ethiopia

The figures below reflect the last known requirements prior to the shutdown and are based on secondary reporting, as official government fee schedules were not located. Ethiopia prohibits all betting and has no licensing route, so GameBridge brands do not serve Ethiopian residents; this page exists so compliance teams can verify the status quickly. The February 2026 parliamentary remarks and the ELS chief's comments about divided oversight suggest a future framework is possible, but any change would require new legislation and a rebuilt licensing regime; monitor ELS notices and the draft sports proclamation for developments.

You can expect smooth gameplay, fast load times, and responsive interfaces no matter which device you use. Many international platforms offer exclusive promotions — including no deposit bonuses and free spins — specifically for new users from Ethiopia. All of these platforms support fast deposits and withdrawals, flexible betting limits, and 24/7 support. What makes it even more useful is the local focus.

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The regulator has stated that it “will strictly monitor the implementation of this decision” and warned that any party continuing to operate or facilitate betting in defiance of the order “will be held legally accountable.” The country’s population of over 134 million, nearly half of whom are under 20, represents one of Africa’s largest potential betting markets. Since the app may not be available on the Google Play Store due to gambling content restrictions, downloading directly from the official source ensures you receive the authentic, secure version of the application. Accessing your Dash Bet Ethiopia account is a straightforward process designed to get you into the action quickly and securely. The promotional structure at Dash Bet en home includes various bonuses and incentives specifically designed to reward both new and existing customers who engage with the sportsbook. 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.

iGaming AFRIKA Set to Attend SiGMA Africa Summit 2026

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. If there is anything that is slowing the betting businesses is poor connectivity, that is the main issue preventing the growth of the online sports betting market. With 10 approved betting companies offering sportsbooks, all at the lottery administrator’s discretion, the online business is far behind the retail sector. When they are ready to withdraw, they can play with their e-wallet funds until they are given a code to take to a nearby retailer. Numerous sportsbook operators have made attempts to gain market share, even though the majority of them have fallen short, more brands are still trying to enter the market.

Current Status Snapshot

• Problem gambling awareness has grown alongside the betting boom, but formal support structures remain limited and largely dependent on individual operators taking initiative.
• Ethiopia’s authorities have defended the policy as part of a broader effort to modernise the betting industry, increase state income, and ensure responsible gambling.
• It helps players find safe, well-designed platforms with generous bonuses, a wide selection of games, and strong customer support.
• They offer unique products & features like Betika Fasta, Betika Super League, ComboBet, Live Betting & Jackpots.
• 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.
• Officials have framed the decision as a containment measure focused on stopping wagering, freezing financial flows, and securing evidence for ongoing investigations.
• These figures help frame the regulatory focus on diverse game categories beyond traditional lottery models.
• These include universal pre-commitment (requiring people to set binding limits of time and money spent gambling) and self-exclusion (allowing people to ban themselves from gambling providers).
• Recent years have seen industry reports emphasizing the necessity for revising regulatory and taxation frameworks to better support the establishment and growth of state-owned iGaming industries.
• All reputable online casinos will verify your age before allowing you to create an account or withdraw winnings.
• 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.

Ethiopia’s burgeoning iGaming sector is a product of growing interest from African governments and an increasingly youthful population with increased access to mobile internet services (for example, through the introduction of online casinos). Ethiopia had one of the fastest-growing betting markets in East Africa until late 2025, with dozens of licensed brands riding the Telebirr boom. It also incorporates advanced security features to ensure secure user data on all transactions.

Ethiopia strengthens gambling regulation amid industry growth new

1 reveals that the most frequently reported form of gambling activity is playing cards followed by flipping coins and pool gambling while Internet gambling is among the least reported forms. The questionnaires were first constructed in English and then translated to Amharic and back translated to English by native Amharic speakers to ensure the quality of the translations. By exploring the risk factors of gambling behavior in adolescents, this study aims to identify target variables for future educational and policy interventions to prevent problematic gambling in adolescents in Ethiopia. Delfabbro et al. (2005) in their study of adolescent gambling of ages 7–12 years found out that three quarters of problematic gamblers reported drinking alcohol on a weekly basis compared with half of the non-problematic sample.

Get instant access to country‑level dashboards, top brands, market structures, and real‑time stats tailored to each region Blask tracks iGaming brands in each country to rank them by 5+ key performance metrics. Blask Index shows the level of engagement and interest across all brands in Ethiopia. We provide limited data here, you can get full granularity and analytics in Blask app

Best betting sites in Ethiopia

Registration is fast, customer support is reliable, and payments are secure and simple to use. However, income is generally taxable, so significant winnings could potentially be subject to income tax. Ethiopia doesn’t have specific tax laws for online gambling winnings. When looking for online casinos that accept Ethiopian players, several factors should influence your decision.

• Withdrawals are processed promptly, with clear guidelines on timing so you always know when to expect your funds.
• Coordination among the National Intelligence and Security Service, Financial Security Service, and Federal Police was critical to the enforcement, with operations conducted in Addis Ababa and other major cities.
• Due to the frequent incidents of white label fraud, please contact us through the following official social media accounts
• With thousands of games, strong security, and rewarding promotions, Chatki ensures every player feels valued.
• These unregulated sites often promise higher payouts and fewer restrictions, creating a tempting alternative for bettors dissatisfied with the domestic market’s offerings.
• Smaller and mid-sized businesses in the industry are particularly vulnerable to the combined burden of turnover taxes, withholding requirements, and compliance costs.
• 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.
• Zanu PF has embarked on a comprehensive review of its constitution to align the party's founding document with recent…
• Telebirr is a licensed mobile-money service, but whether it works for gambling transactions depends on the specific operator and current restrictions — always confirm in the cashier first.
• Articles published under this byline are summarised from reporting by licensed gambling industry news sources and produced with AI assistance, then published against our editorial rules on accuracy, sourcing and tone.
• First, however, let’s get to see just how safe and secure you are when you choose to settle at Chatki.

What Ethiopia’s Gambling Rules Cover

The platform’s live betting interface displays real-time statistics, match trackers, and visual representations of game progress, helping players make informed decisions during crucial moments. The live betting section at Dash Bet online represents one of the platform’s most dynamic and engaging features, allowing Ethiopian players to place wagers on ongoing matches in real-time. The sportsbook also features basketball, tennis, volleyball, handball, and various other sports that attract significant betting interest in the Ethiopian market.

He breaks down slot features, payout structures, and game math in a simple and direct way. At UcasinoOnlineET, David focuses on slot games and player behavior. The online casino landscape in Ethiopia is at an interesting crossroads in 2025.

• 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.
• Legally, the decision to protect the details of the firms involved underscores the sensitivity and complexity of ongoing investigations.
• How policymakers manage this dynamic environment remains a critical question as the balance between opportunity and risk evolves.
• 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.
• Jambobet and other industry platforms serve as key case studies in integrating regulatory compliance with consumer protection, setting precedents for emerging markets.
• While brick-and-mortar betting venues remain dominant, digital participation has increased notably, facilitated by infrastructure such as telebirr and CBE Birr digital wallets.
• One of the main features of Bet24.et is its comprehensive reviews of online casinos and sportsbooks available to players in Ethiopia.
• Whether you’re new to online casinos in Ethiopia or already experienced, Chatki gives you a safe and exciting way to enjoy gaming.
• Gambling firms are required to secure licenses, meet tax obligations, and comply with stringent rules to prevent underage gambling and addiction.
• Make the most of generous promotions and the Easybet bonus designed to reward loyalty and increase your chances of a big win.
• Since this area of Ethiopia’s gambling industry still lacks clarity, the first thing the government needs to do is create clear and strict laws for online gambling.
• These services allow you to fund your casino account directly from your mobile phone, often without needing a bank account.

How fast are withdrawals on Ethiopian betting sites?

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.

Major Events in Sports Betting History

At a February 2026 parliamentary hearing, a state minister said permanently blocking betting is impossible and argued for a proper legal framework, and the regulator is amending its betting directive. These sites hold no Ethiopian licence, answer to no Ethiopian authority, and often rely on informal payment channels now that the official rails are blocked. The shutdown has not stopped offshore operators from targeting Ethiopian players, and that is exactly the problem. Licensed brands took deposits through Telebirr, CBE Birr and HelloCash, and betting shops spread through Addis Ababa and beyond. Before the shutdown, the National Lottery Administration licensed betting companies alongside the national lottery, and the legal betting age was 18. Ethiopia’s rules changed more in one month than most markets change in a decade.

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Dash Bet Ethiopia has established itself as a premier destination for sports betting enthusiasts across the country, offering an extensive range of sporting events that cater to diverse betting preferences. 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. Navigating the extensive game library at Dash Bet en home couldn’t be simpler thanks to intelligent search functionality, filter options by provider and game type, and a favorites feature that lets you bookmark your top picks for instant access during future visits. These games are perfect for short breaks or when you want engaging entertainment without committing to longer gaming sessions, and they contribute to the platform’s reputation as a comprehensive online casino destination. Roulette fans can choose between European, French, and American wheels, with the European and French versions offering better odds due to the single zero configuration. Blackjack variations include European, American, and multi-hand versions, each with slightly different rules and betting options to match your playing style and bankroll.

The Slotegrator team consists of over 350 iGaming specialists in various fields, including law, finance, IT, marketing, and compliance. There’s also the taxation system to concern; turnover taxes are usually viewed as putting an undue burden on gambling brands. This is probably hampering the growth of the market and limiting the number of licensees, as well as driving players to offshore platforms. Established brands in the country include Abyssinia Bet, Powerbet.et, Betika.et, Harifsport, Axumbet, and Gihon Betting. However, the country does have a very sizable population of 130 million.

• No official statement from ELS or NISS has explicitly linked the nationwide licence revocation to that specific arrest case.
• In this country the conversation is harder than the decision, and I know that, and I am still telling you to have it.
• The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) and four of its senior military officials,…
• Always verify the latest status from an official source before using any betting page.
• By ensuring operators meet strict licensing requirements, the government hopes to create a more transparent market that protects players, promotes fair competition, and maximizes tax contributions.
• All advertising is prohibited due to the market shutdown.
• On the other hand, people interested in playing other genres such as slots, table games, or live games can explore foreign online casinos which accept Ethiopian players.
• The bookmaker operates both an online platform as well as betting oulets all over Ethiopia so you have no excuse not to bet with them.
• Land-based casinos are limited in Ethiopia, with most operations concentrated around Addis Ababa, though their legal status remains limited.
• This “demographic dividend” gives Ethiopia significant potential in the digital economy and entertainment industries.
• Your personal information stays confidential and is used only for legitimate operational purposes, ensuring the highest level of privacy at all times.
• The government is conducting reviews and/or suspensions on over 80 existing licenses to ensure all operators comply with these new regulations.

Brazil betting shutdown triggers BRL1.3bn refunds and job cuts

Accessible via desktop and mobile browsers, Betgr8 caters to users seeking a comprehensive betting experience. Betgr8 Ethiopia is an online betting platform offering diverse gambling services, including sports betting, virtual sports, and casino games. Well, it’s because we found many positive attributes to talk about when we thoroughly assessed this betting platform. Among the many options they can choose to settle at is the highly impressive Ahadu Birr. YaBetting (also known as Gursha Bet) has made a name for itself in the Ethiopian online gambling scene by offering a blend of sports betting and casino gaming options.

Tax on winnings in Ethiopia

Betting shops dominate the landscape in England, with over 9,000 in total throughout the United Kingdom. A rough estimate of the amount of money legally wagered annually in the world is about $10 trillion (illegal gambling may exceed even this figure). By the beginning of the 21st century, approximately four out of five people in Western nations gambled at least occasionally.

The country has a population of around 130 million, with a median age of just 19 and approximately 58% of the population between 15 and 64 — the prime demographic for betting engagement. Sports betting was legalised in Ethiopia in 2012, and the sector expanded rapidly in the years that followed, driven by a young, mobile-connected population hungry for football content. To understand what was lost — and what risks now fill the void — it helps to understand how significant the Ethiopian betting sites and market had become before the shutdown. Whether players have actually been able to claim those funds is another matter entirely. Investigators said they had uncovered a web of tax evasion, illegal financial transfers, and unlicensed operations — with funds allegedly funnelled through cryptocurrency and hawala services, and links claimed to terrorism https://gursha-bet-et.com/ financing and contraband networks.

• None of this is illegal from the operators’ perspective — they hold licences in other jurisdictions and are operating legally within those frameworks.
• This shift from purely gaming focused establishments to multi layered entertainment hubs has been one of the most significant elements of the industry’s evolution.
• 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.
• While gambling legislation in Ethiopia remains under development, the Ethiopian National Lottery Administration (ENLA) currently oversees all lottery and sports betting activities.
• The ELS, in collaboration with state bodies, will monitor compliance closely, warning of legal consequences for non-compliance.
• Before the full shutdown, the regulator had already suspended 22 betting operators as part of a wider investigation.
• With the rise of tourism and business travel in cities like Addis Ababa, regulated gaming floors became a natural extension of existing leisure facilities.
• Bet only for entertainment, set limits, do not borrow money to gamble, and never bet more than you can afford to lose.
• In December 2023, the Ethiopian government announced plans to introduce a comprehensive gambling licensing framework in the near future.
• However, iGaming (such as slots, roulette, baccarat, etc.) remains in a legal "grey area."

Despite the efforts to crack down on sports betting by shutting down physical betting shops, the industry remains vibrant, particularly in the digital sphere. While the physical outlets may have closed, the betting culture remains resilient, with many shifting to online platforms and underground operations. Check the exact domain, current homepage status, support path, and whether the account or cashier flow is clearly official. We checked the official domains of popular Ethiopian betting brands from outside Ethiopia. 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.

Dash Bet Ethiopia distinguishes itself through a comprehensive suite of betting features designed to enhance the overall wagering experience and provide players with greater control over their betting activities. 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 platform has been designed with Ethiopian players in mind, ensuring smooth navigation, fast loading times, and support for local payment preferences. With the right mix of local sports engagement, optimized mobile experiences, and marketing tailored to local languages and culture, Ethiopia stands out as a high-potential frontier in Africa’s growing iGaming landscape. For iGaming operators looking to invest in the long-term market, Ethiopia’s population structure and growth potential may be far more attractive than its current per capita income.

They also offer winnings of up to 500,000 ETB/14,706 USD, making them a formidable contender in the Ethiopian betting industry. The betting website lets them place their bets using an e-wallet for their money, which they can then receive another code and return to the shop, when they are ready to withdraw their winnings. Axumbet has made a name for themselves in the Ethiopian sports gambling scene by offering a variety of sports aside from soccer, such as, cricket, tennis, basketball, among others. Hulusport is another Ethiopian online betting site that has a strict focus on football. Bet994 is available through either agent shops or online through a fun and easy web platform.

This growth is driven largely by the increased penetration of digital payment systems such as telebirr and CBE Birr, which have facilitated more accessible online wagering options. I spent years on the payments side in Addis, working settlement problems on Telebirr and CBE Birr before I started writing about betting sites. In this country the conversation is harder than the decision, and I know that, and I am still telling you to have it. For now, the protections that usually shield people from serious harm are mostly missing from this market. If you recognise your own account in that list, you do not need anyone’s permission to stop and you do not need to call it a problem first.

For example, a 100% welcome bonus means if you deposit $100, you get an extra $100 as bonus funds. Ethiopian players can enjoy a variety of bonuses and promotions at online casinos. Crypto is fast and often has lower fees compared to regular banks. They accept Bitcoin and Ethereum for secure and private transactions. Yes, Ethiopian online casinos do offer live dealer games.

Traditional lotteries continue to engage many participants, particularly among older demographics, while traditional online casinos, featuring games such as slots, poker, and table games, are also gaining traction. Ethiopia is anticipated to play a vital role in this expansion, supported by its large and youthful population. Recent years have seen industry reports emphasizing the necessity for revising regulatory and taxation frameworks to better support the establishment and growth of state-owned iGaming industries. It’s also wise to be aware of the potential for addiction and seek help if needed.

Best PayPal Casino Sites in Ethiopia

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.

At Chatki, bonuses are designed to give Ethiopian players extra value. The site is designed to load quickly, with games optimised for smaller screens. Slots are the most popular choice, offering quick gameplay and exciting bonuses. Unlike many foreign casinos, Chatki is designed with Ethiopia in mind, so you can trust the platform to meet your needs. With a huge selection of games, exciting promotions, and security you can rely on, it’s the ultimate destination for online casino play.

• It provides a fast and secure banking solution, with the added convenience of an Android app for transactions on the go.
• The thing is the system is designed to be corrupt and there are always ways to do what should have been legal in an illegal way so that you have to be corrupt.
• In this article, we will delve into the current state of affairs regarding online betting apps in Ethiopia, focusing on Habesha bet ethiopia.
• The legal framework also plays a pivotal role in safeguarding participants against fraud and ensuring fair play, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of sports betting as a form of entertainment.
• 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.
• Licensed operators contribute significant funds to state coffers, with monthly tax payments reaching tens of millions of ETB.
• IOS users can typically find the app on the Apple App Store by searching for “Dash Bet” or accessing it through a link provided on the official website.
• 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.
• 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.
• Casinos complement this sector by offering additional recreational choices for international visitors who are familiar with gaming environments in other destinations.
• In several cases, companies that initially appeared to be legally registered had abandoned their official offices and concealed their actual operating locations, raising further suspicions.
• 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.

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.

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.

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