Online poker is not formally regulated in Zimbabwe, though the government is working to modernize gambling laws to include online gaming. While land-based gambling is regulated under the Lotteries and Gaming Act, Chapter 10:26, online gambling currently occupies a gray area (2). The Lotteries and Gaming Board of Zimbabwe regulates licensing and operations for casinos, lotteries, sports betting, and other gaming services, with licensed operators expected to comply with strict guidelines ensuring fairness and consumer protection (1).
The government approved an amendment to the Lotteries and Gaming Act in 2022 to allow for online betting, recognizing the substantial revenue losses from legislative inadequacies. In August 2024, Cabinet approved the Lotteries and Gaming Amendment Bill, which includes provisions for online gaming, anti-money laundering regulations, and enhanced consumer protection measures. The bill proposes renaming the Lotteries and Gaming Board to the Gaming Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe, with expanded enforcement powers and requirements for electronic monitoring systems.
"Online gambling is quite a new field in the Zimbabwean market, but the government has already appreciated its great potential."
The minimum legal gambling age in Zimbabwe is 18 years, strictly applied to all forms of gambling including casinos, lotteries, and sports betting (1). The Lotteries and Gaming Board conducts regular checks on operators concerning adherence to the law, with infractions resulting in fines, license suspension, or outright cancellation. Zimbabwe has taken measures to block unauthorized offshore sites, though many Zimbabweans still access offshore betting platforms, and the government continues working toward tighter regulations providing better consumer protection (1).
Source:
https://www.igamingtoday.com/gambling-regulation-in-zimbabwe/
https://cms.law/en/int/expert-guides/cms-expert-guide-to-gambling-laws-in-africa/zimbabwe
Last updated: 10-10-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
