Quick answer
Betting in Zimbabwe is legal for adults when it is offered by an operator licensed by the Lotteries and Gaming Board (LGB). Several online bookmakers state on their websites that they hold LGB licences. Betting with unlicensed or offshore sites carries extra risk. Gaming laws and taxes have been under review, so confirm current rules with the LGB.
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The regulator
Gambling in Zimbabwe, including sports betting, is regulated by the Lotteries and Gaming Board (LGB), a public body set up under the Lotteries and Gaming Act [Chapter 10:26]. The Board licenses bookmakers, casinos and gaming houses. Its public operator register is at lgb.co.zw/operator.
Betting with a licensed bookmaker
Placing bets as an adult with a bookmaker licensed by the LGB is a lawful activity. Licensed bookmakers operate betting shops across the country, and several online bookmakers state on their own websites that they are licensed and regulated by the LGB. For example, when we checked in October 2026, Premier Bet Zimbabwe and Bolabet Zimbabwe both displayed such statements. You can check any site using our guide to checking bookmaker licensing.
Age limit
Bookmakers operating in Zimbabwe state that you must be 18 or older to register and bet. Do not bet if you are under 18, and do not let anyone under 18 use your account.
Unlicensed and offshore sites
Some betting websites available in Zimbabwe are licensed only in other countries, or not licensed at all. Using them carries extra risks:
- if they refuse to pay, the Zimbabwean regulator may not be able to help;
- your deposits and personal data may be less protected;
- the legal status of using them is less clear.
Zimbabwean authorities have publicly said they are acting against illegal gambling operators. The safest choice is a bookmaker you can confirm is licensed by the LGB.
Changes to the law
Zimbabwe has been reviewing its gaming laws. Proposals reported in the media include updating the rules for online gaming and changing the regulator's structure. We have not confirmed the current status of these proposals. Before relying on any detail, check the latest position with the LGB.
Tax on winnings
Taxes can apply to betting in Zimbabwe, and media reports have discussed taxes on punters' winnings. We have not verified the current rate, what it is charged on, or how each bookmaker applies it. Check your bookmaker's terms and bet slip, or the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA). Our Zimbabwe betting tax calculator lets you see the effect of any rate you enter, but it is an estimate only.
Summary
- The LGB regulates betting under the Lotteries and Gaming Act.
- Betting with an LGB-licensed operator is lawful for adults aged 18 and over.
- Offshore and unlicensed sites carry extra risks.
- Laws and taxes have been under review: confirm current rules with the LGB.