Sports betting in Zimbabwe is regulated under the Lotteries and Gaming Act (Chapter 10:26) as well as the Betting and Totalizator Control Act (Chapter 10:02), which together establish the legal framework for wagering activities. Individuals and entities must adhere to strict licensing and operational requirements to conduct sports betting legally (1)(2).
The Lotteries and Gaming Board, established by the Lotteries and Gaming Act, oversees all gaming activities, including sports betting, and issues licenses to approved bookmakers. Under the Betting and Totalizator Control Act, a bookmaker’s licence and a licensed betting room are mandatory for taking bets on sporting events (2).
"bookmaker means any person who earns or endeavours to earn his livelihood wholly or partly by betting with members of the public; “betting room” means a room licensed under subsection (1) of section twenty-five wherein bets may be made and settled on the result of a sporting event;"
While on-site betting is legal and regulated, online sports betting remains unregulated under current legislation, leaving operators without a clear framework for digital platforms. The Lotteries and Gaming Board has not yet extended licensing provisions to cover internet wagering, creating a regulatory gap in the market (1).
Penalties for operating without a valid bookmaker’s licence or unlicensed betting room include fines and potential imprisonment under the Betting and Totalizator Control Act, while the Lotteries and Gaming Act empowers authorities to revoke licences and seize equipment. Individuals should ensure compliance to avoid legal consequences (2).
Source:
https://lgb.co.zw/index.php/lotteries-and-gaming-act/
https://www.zimra.co.zw/downloads/category/17-acts?download=3974:betting-and-totalizator-control-act-chapter-1002
Last updated: 22-05-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
