List of the Best Online Casinos in Zambia
In November 2024, the Zambian Parliament passed a motion to enhance the regulation of online gambling. With that in mind, let's take a look at the history of gambling laws in the country. We'll also take a look at which are the best online casinos in Zambia, along with the best bonus offers.
History of gambling in Zambia
Zambia has a rich history of gambling. In our research, the earliest form of gambling introduced in the country goesĀ back to 1950.Ā Back then, the lottery was the only form of gambling in Zambia. But that situation changed quickly after the country gained its independence.
Zambia has been under the rule of the British Empire since 1888. But in 1962, the country was finally free of British rule. After this time, the country slowly started moving towards improvement in many sectors. Fortunately for Zambians, the gambling industry was one of them.
If we go chronologically, the first gambling act was the Lotteries Act of 1952. Soon after, the Betting act was put in place in 58. This act was introduced to regulate the country's horse racing and sports betting.
Then we come to the Casino Act, which was enactedĀ in 1992. Since then, all casinos and gambling activities have been regulated. Most of the casino players are tourists; hence in 2007, casino regulation was putĀ under the Tourism and Hospitality Act.
In November 2024, the Zambian Parliament passed a motion to enhance the regulation of online gambling. The motion aims to establish a centralized authority to regulate all forms of gambling, implement stricter licensing requirements, enforce robust age verification systems, and introduce spending limits to protect users from financial harm
Gambling laws in Zambia
Under the Casino Act of 1992, operators must have a license with a validity of 5 years. The licensing committee can renew this license for the casinos to remain in operation for longer periods. Operators were also required to pay the government aĀ 20% levy tax lifted in 2019.
Although online gambling is illegal, the country doesn't shy away from it like other African countries. But there is still no regulatory body that overseesĀ online gambling. That's why players choose to play at top-rated online casinos wherever they are accepted.
And since we're talking about online gambling, players can also play at any offshore lottery casino. The lotteryĀ is one of the popular gambling activities, so it makes sense for players to participate in international lotteries.Ā
Land-based casinos in Zambia
Land-based casinos have been in operation since gambling has legalized. You can find all the best games, like free online slots, table games, and video poker slots to play there. Most of these casinos are situated around the capital city,Ā Lusaka. Players of legal age can visit any of these casinos and expect a wonderful time there.
The future of online gambling in Zambia
Online gambling has been regulated very recently in Zambia, which brings it in line with other African countries and their casino habits, such as Ghanian casinos. However, this only incorporates sports betting. The regulation of online casinos remains less clear, with some operators being forced to function under existing sports betting licenses or in a legal grey area. What is known is that the government is actively working to enhance regulations to ensure a safer gambling environment and generate revenue for national projects.
Online casinos in Africa per country
Frequently asked questions about online casinos in Zambia
Is online gambling legal in Zambia?
Yes, and no. Online gambling on sports is legal and regulated in Zambia, while regulation on online casinos is still in a legal grey area. Operators must obtain a betting license from the Gambling Board of Zambia to offer online betting legally.
Can I play at international online casinos from Zambia?
Yes, Zambian players can access and play at international online casinos, although it's recommended to choose platforms that accept Zambian players and offer secure, licensed gaming.
What payment methods are available for online casinos in Zambia?
Popular payment methods include mobile money services like Airtel Money and MTN Mobile Money, Visa/Mastercard, bank transfers, and sometimes cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
Fact-checked by Julia Attard
Senior Author & Online Casino Expert