for early access to the latest igaming videos!
and get the latest igaming news first!
Situated in Southern Africa, the country of Zimbabwe boasts a variety of wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural history. Speaking of laws regulating gaming activities, Zimbabwe is somewhat different from most African nations because its government combines regulated gaming activities with fast-developing digital bets. Now, let’s see some aspects concerning Zimbabwe’s gambling scene.
This story was written on September 16, 2024, and was based upon the best information available to the author at that time. Because laws concerning gambling change and DtC licenses evolve, I recommend seeking out local experts for the most recent information concerning Zimbabwe’s gambling laws.
Does Zimbabwe Have Its Own Gambling License?
Yes, Zimbabwe has put in place a proper licensing system regarding gambling activities. The government regulates the gambling activities, from land-based to online, through the Lotteries and Gaming Board of Zimbabwe. This regulates the licensing and operations for casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and other gaming services. Such licensed operators are expected to act in conformity with strict guidelines that ensure fairness and protection for consumers.
Who regulates gambling laws in Zimbabwe?
It is a statutory body that heads all gambling activities within the country. It is responsible for ensuring that operators comply with the gambling laws of the country, taking measures for the protection of the public against gambling-related harm, and monitoring the integrity of gambling operations. The board, in cooperation with the Ministry of Home Affairs, issues licenses and regulates gaming establishments.
Overview of Zimbabwe gambling law
Gambling in Zimbabwe is now primarily governed by the Gambling Control Act of 2025, which updated and modernized the framework originally set by the Lotteries and Gaming Act [Chapter 10:26]. This new legislation was specifically designed to address the “digital boom” in online betting and mobile gaming.
Key highlights of the current gambling legislation include:
- Land-Based Casino and Gaming: Zimbabwe continues to permit land-based casinos in key hubs like Harare and Victoria Falls. All outlets must be licensed by the ZGRA and adhere to new strict technical standards for gaming equipment.
- Formalized Online Regulation: As of 2026, online gambling is no longer a “regulatory gap.” All online casinos and sportsbooks must obtain a specific remote gambling license. Offshore sites are increasingly being targeted by ZGRA and the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) to encourage local licensing.
- Drastic Tax Increases (2026): In a major fiscal shift effective January 1, 2026, the government implemented sweeping tax hikes:
- Punters’ Tax: Withholding tax on all gambling winnings has increased from 10% to 25%.
- Operator Tax: The tax on Gross Gambling Revenue (GGR) for bookmakers and casinos has jumped from 3% to 20%. This is now treated as a “final tax,” exempting these companies from standard Corporate Income Tax.
- Digital Services Tax: A 15% withholding tax now applies to payments made to offshore digital service providers.
- Age Restrictions: The legal age for gambling in Zimbabwe remains strictly 18 years.
Legal precedents in the regulation of gambling in Zimbabwe
For several years now, the Government of Zimbabwe has been engaged on the legality of the regulations on gambling. More often than not, these involved either unlicensed operators or disputes in the interpretation of the Lotteries and Gaming Act. The government has always stood its ground to ensure that the laws are upheld and that the operators comply with the set standards while paying the required taxes.
Although it is not bound by the laws of the European Union, much less any other foreign body, Zimbabwe nevertheless attempted to follow most international guidelines on how gambling should be run, particularly about online gambling. Included in this are anti-money laundering measures and protection policies against the effects of gambling on problem gamblers.
Enforcement of gambling laws in Zimbabwe
The Lotteries and Gaming Board are quite serious with the application of gambling laws in Zimbabwe. Regarding the operators, regular checks are made concerning adherence to the law, and infraction may involve fines, suspension of licenses, or outright cancellation of the same. The board also works with the police in trying to crack down on illegal gambling operations, much like unlicensed betting houses and online platforms.
For online betting, Zimbabwe has taken various measures to restrict and block access to unauthorized offshore sites. It is still a very challenging implementation in the cyber field, and many citizens still access offshore betting sites.
Potential Amendments to Gaming Legislation
As of 2026, the government is rolling out the National Digital Roadmap (2026–2030), which explores the use of blockchain and AI to monitor gambling transactions in real-time. This is expected to lead to even more automated tax collection and player-protection systems in the coming years.
Where do I get lawyers to help me with gambling laws?
For assistance regarding the new 2025/2026 regulations, it is recommended to consult firms with specialized regulatory and tax departments, such as Honey & Blanckenberg or Gill, Godlonton & Gerrans. Expert advice is essential to navigate the high-tax environment and the complex digital compliance requirements managed by ZIMRA and POTRAZ.
