TLDR Senegal’s gambling sector generated over $71 million (CFA 40.9 billion) in the first quarter of 2026, according to Finance Minister Cheikh Diba. The government introduced double taxation on gambling operators in 2025 to boost revenue and regulate the growing industry. The Q1 figures represent a 71% coverage rate against government targets, driven largely by online gambling growth. Finance Minister Diba praised the National Lottery (LONASE) and its Director General for supporting government revenue priorities. Diba called for stronger cross-border cooperation and protections for younger users against online gambling risks.
Senegal’s gambling industry brought in more than $71 million during the first three months of 2026. Finance Minister Cheikh Diba shared the figures at the African Lotteries Association seminar held in Dakar.
The event brought together industry leaders under the theme “Development and innovation of African lotteries.” It served as a platform to discuss the future of gambling regulation across the continent.
According to Diba, the CFA 40.9 billion collected in Q1 represents a 71% coverage rate against the government’s revenue targets. He pointed to online gambling as a key driver behind the sector’s expansion.
The minister explained that Senegal is focused on diversifying its sources of domestic revenue. He said the government made this a priority due to limited resources and growing budget pressures.
2025 Tax Reforms Shape the Market
In 2025, Senegal introduced double taxation on gambling operators. Diba said the move was designed to increase government revenue while also bringing more oversight to a fast-growing industry.
He framed the reforms as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s financial position. The changes applied to operators across the sector, including those running online platforms.
Diba said the early results from 2026 show the reforms are working. He described the sector as dynamic and