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pawaTech, the company behind the betPawa brand in Africa, has announced that it will halt operations in Senegal starting September 22, 2025. This challenging decision arises from the current market conditions in the country, which the operator believes have created considerable obstacles for licensees.
The company blames high taxation rates, a monopoly on payment processing, and hefty regulatory fees, claiming that these factors have put local businesses at a disadvantage compared to offshore competitors.
It also stated in the press release that the company is currently thriving, providing responsible options for consumers, boosting government tax revenues, and generating local employment in other African markets with fair taxation and an open payment system.
“pawaTech and its local partners remain committed to responsible, transparent, and sustainable operations across Africa. While current conditions in Senegal make continued operations impossible, we remain hopeful that conditions will improve, allowing us to return and once again contribute positively to the local economy.
Customers in Senegal can be assured that all funds remain safe and will be returned promptly following the closure,” the press release stated.
Senegal’s three-year plan
Last August, Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko unveiled Senegal’s National Economic and Social Recovery Plan, a comprehensive three-year initiative aimed at tackling the country’s growing public debt and restoring economic stability without seeking assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
A key element of this plan is the proposal to increase taxes on various high-margin sectors, including online gambling, tobacco, and mobile money transactions. While these higher taxes are aimed at generating additional revenue, the iGaming industry is already starting to feel the impact with betPawa’s exit, and more departures might follow in the coming months.
Source: betPawa
