The Ethiopia Lottery Service (ELS) has issued a public clarification following reports circulating on social media and other media platforms by certain sports betting organisations.
According to the regulator, while it respects the court’s decision and the ongoing legal process, the court order relating to the case has been suspended in accordance with legal procedures.
As a result, any claim by betting operators that they have obtained a legal licence or permission to continue operating sports betting services based on the court case is false.
The Ethiopian Lottery Service stated that:
- There are currently no legally licensed sports betting operators operating within Ethiopia’s jurisdiction.
- Citizens are strongly advised not to place bets or deposit money through illegal sports betting websites, social media pages, agents, or other unauthorized payment channels.
- Using illegal betting platforms exposes consumers to significant financial and personal data risks, and any losses may be difficult to recover because the operators are not legally authorized.
- Members of the public are encouraged to report illegal sports betting websites, agents, or individuals through the Ethiopian Lottery Service hotline 9695 or other official reporting channels.
The regulator added that it will continue working closely with relevant government institutions to protect the public interest, strengthen financial security, and uphold the rule of law.
