Gambling and online casinos in Somalia

Somalia is one of the most religiously conservative countries in Africa, where gambling in all forms is completely banned.

The country lives according to the principles of Islamic law (Sharia), and any activity related to gambling is considered a violation of religious norms and moral principles.

Despite this, in the context of the growing Internet and cryptoeconomics in Somalia, an unofficial online gambling market is gradually being formed, based on foreign sites and anonymous payment systems.

Historical context

Prior to the 1991 civil war, small private clubs and lotteries targeting foreigners existed in Somalia.

However, after the collapse of the state and the introduction of Sharia jurisdiction, all types of gambling were banned as "haram" (prohibited by Allah).

Since then, no law has revised this ban.

Gambling in the country is officially equated with financial fraud, usury and drug trafficking.

Legislation and regulation

• The Somali Penal Code (Article 505) explicitly prohibits any form of money gambling;
• The Sharia Law applied by the courts makes gambling a violation of religious and social order;
• The Ministry of Information and Communications controls the blocking of sites related to casinos and betting.

• a complete ban on organizing and participating in gambling;
• punishment - fine, imprisonment or community service;
• advertising and promotion of gambling services are also prosecuted;
• foreign companies are prohibited from providing gambling services in Somalia.

Online gambling

Online gambling, like land-based casinos, is officially banned in Somalia, but technically it is not possible to completely control Internet activity.

With the development of mobile networks and VPN services, residents of the country gain access to foreign sites, for example, 1xBet, Stake, BetWinner, BC. Game и 22Bet.

• VPN usage (mainly via Kenya and Ethiopia);
• anonymous cryptocurrency wallets (Bitcoin, Tron, USDT);
• participation in Telegram bots with game chats;
• limited access via mobile operators Hormuud and Somtel.

According to East Africa Digital Report 2024, approximately 30-40 thousand Somalis regularly visit offshore gaming sites, despite the current bans.

Social and religious context

• from legislation to public morality.
• Gambling is condemned as a form of "haram wealth," together with alcohol and usury.

At the same time, among young people, especially in cities

Mogadishu, Hargeisa and Bosaso, digital entertainment is spreading, including sports simulations and virtual lotteries without cash bets.

Economic context

Due to religious and political restrictions, the gambling sector in Somalia does not contribute to the economy.

However, experts note that illegal online rates and private forecast pools can bring turnover up to $5-7 million per year, mainly through crypto transactions.

The government, seeking to avoid conflicts with the Islamic community, does not take steps towards legalization, but also does not have the technical ability to completely block VPN traffic.

Prospects

In the foreseeable future, the legalization of gambling in Somalia is impossible.

The country adheres to the constitutional principle of an Islamic state, where sharia takes precedence over civil law.

However, experts on East Africa note that with the stabilization of the political situation and the development of financial infrastructure

Somalia may consider a model of limited regulation for foreign investors in tourist areas.

The market potential for liberalization is estimated at $25-30 million per year, primarily due to online gambling and crypto games.

Somalia is a country with a complete ban on gambling based on religious and moral principles.

Casinos, lotteries, betting shops and online betting are officially banned, and their organization is punishable by law.

However, there is interest in gambling, especially among the younger generation who find workarounds through VPNs and cryptocurrencies.