Is betting legal in Malawi?

In Malawi, betting and all associated activities are permitted. A regulating agency monitors the betting businesses and ensures fair play is maintained.

Can people in Malawi bet on foreign betting sites?

Yes. Malawi has no stringent laws restricting citizens from betting at offshore betting sites.

What are the common sports in Malawi to bet on?

Football, ice hockey, tennis, and esports are popular betting sports in Malawi.

What means of payment are available in Malawi betting sites?

Players in Malawi have access to a wide range of betting choices on betting sites. Card payments, e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and mobile money are popular.

Can I bet online in Malawi?

You may place bets and withdraw profits since internet betting is permitted nationwide.

Sports Betting Sites Online in Malawi 2025

Last update at 1 November, 2025⏲️ Reading time: 16 minutes

As sports betting becomes more and more popular, bettors often have an abundance of options. But stop worrying! The Allbets team has explored the market, reading through several reviews and contrasting platforms to present you with the top betting sites in Malawi.

Our comprehensive research focuses on the essential elements: substantial bonuses, competitive odds, and a flawless betting experience. Prepare to step up your game and end disappointment using our carefully curated list of Malawi's best betting sites.

List of Best Betting Sites in Malawi

Rank	Bookmaker	Rating	Bonus	Get bonus
1	1xBet	5/5	Bonus: 100% Welcome Bonus up to 170,000 MWK	Read review
2	22Bet	4.8/5	Bonus: 100% WELCOME BONUS UP TO 100 EUR	Read review
3	MegaPari	5/5	Bonus: 100% WELCOME BONUS UP TO 100 EUR	Read review
4	1Bet	4.8/5	Bonus: 100% WELCOME BONUS UP TO 100 EUR	Read review
5	20BET	4.5/5	Bonus: 100% WELCOME BONUS UP TO 100 EUR	Read review
6	Tonybet	4.8/5		Read review

History of online betting in Malawi

For years, the Malawian gambling scene was hidden in back alleys and roaring match boxes, untouched by digital. Then, in 1968, the Betting and Lotteries and Gaming Act established a foundation. It legalized land-based gambling but left the online world unchastened by any regulatory hand on its conscience. This ambiguity didn't deter enterprising individuals, as unlicensed online platforms emerged, operating in a grey area.

In 2019, the tide turned again with the Gaming (Amendment) Act. That body laid the legal basis for online staking and a designated vehicle to supervise this industry in particular: the National Gaming Board of Malawi (NGBM). Empowered with the authority to issue licenses and enforce regulations, the NGBM ushered in a new era of controlled growth.

Licensed operators, both international giants like Bet365 and local players like LWM Sportsbook, quickly entered the arena, offering punters a diverse betting smorgasbord. Mobile money integration, a ubiquitous technology in Malawi, further fueled the industry's expansion, making wagers accessible even in remote corners of the country.

But as the economy boomed, people began to worry about possible social landmines. Aware of the dangers of gambling dependency, alongside responsible gaming procedures such as age checks and deposit limits to self-exclusion programs. Citizens were also educated about the potential dangers of excessive wagering through campaigns for public awareness.

Today, online betting is equally popular in Malawi, and the government raises a lot of revenue from it while employing many people. While it holds economic promise, the industry still struggles to maintain regulatory compliance and prevent underage gambling, as well as encourage responsible gaming.

As Malawi's online betting story unfolds, one thing is sure: The delicate balance between economic potential and social responsibility will be the industry's road map for future development.

How is online betting regulated in Malawi?

Since it became legal in Malawi in 2019, internet betting has grown quickly, created enthusiasm, and unavoidably presented difficulties. The National Gaming Board of Malawi (NGBM) has established a regulatory framework for player safety and commercial reward to guarantee this journey continues.

The licensing process sits at the heart of this framework. Only operators vetted and approved by the NGBM, like international giants and local startups, can legally operate. This ensures minimum quality standards and financial stability, minimizing the risk of scams and predatory practices.

In addition to licensing, the NGBM enforces several rules. Knowing Your Customer (KYC) standards fight money laundering and fraud, while age verification procedures keep minors out of the game. Deposit caps and self-exclusion plans are examples of responsible gambling policies that provide players the freedom to manage their bets and avoid addiction.

However, regulation extends beyond the NGBM's direct actions. Tax policies ensure the government reaps benefits from the industry's success, while advertising regulations control marketing practices to prevent excessive promotion and protect vulnerable populations.

Technology is also essential in the regulatory dance. The NGBM utilizes sophisticated monitoring systems to track operator activity and detect potential breaches. Collaborations with mobile money providers help identify suspicious transactions and implement age verification protocols.

Despite these measures, challenges remain. Unlicensed operators continue to operate in the shadows, and enforcing laws across Malawi's extensive and sometimes technologically impoverished environment may be difficult. Continued public education initiatives are also necessary to encourage safe gaming and increase knowledge of possible hazards.

In conclusion, the laws governing online betting in Malawi are dynamic and strive to strike a compromise between player safety and economic development. The NGBM, equipped with licensing, technology, and collaborative efforts, steers the industry forward, but the race to maintain a healthy and sustainable betting environment is far from over. Constant vigilance, adaptation, and public engagement will ensure that Malawi's online betting journey remains a game everyone can win.

🌍 Country	Malawi
👌 Language	English
💲 Currency	Malawian Kwacha (MWK)
⚽ Popular sports	Football, Tennis, Ice Hockey, eSports
⚖️ Is betting legal?	Yes
🏢 Regulator	Malawi Gaming & Lotteries Authority (MAGLA)
🧾 Gambling taxes	30% for companies and 5% for player winnings
💳 Most popular payment methods	MasterCard, eWallets, Mobile Money

Top 5 best online betting sites in Malawi

Malawi is known for its excellent online betting scene, and five websites are trendy because of their unique features. Let us briefly highlight their features below.

#1 1xbet

This is a top choice for online sports betting in Malawi. It offers many options, including football, tennis, and other sports. 1xbet is excellent for live events and betting styles, making it a hit with all sports fans.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit (MWK)	Deposit Methods
100% up to 110,000 MWK	35x wagering on bonus & deposit	37,000 MWK	VISA, Mastercard, eWallets, Mobile Money

#2 22Bet

22Bet simplifies online betting, perfect for newcomers and experienced players alike. It's easy for beginners and offers a wide range of sports and events for seasoned bettors.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit (MWK)	Deposit Methods
100% up to 110,000 MWK	35x wagering on bonus & deposit	37,000 MWK	VISA, Mastercard, eWallets, Mobile Money

#3 Megapari

Megapari is a big favorite in Malawi for sports betting. It's known for its good odds, which means better chances to win. It offers many sports markets, including famous international sports and local Malawian games. Its smooth online experience keeps bettors coming back.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit (MWK)	Deposit Methods
100% up to 110,000 MWK	40x wagering on bonus & deposit	18,000 MWK	VISA, Mastercard, eWallets, Mobile Money

#4 1Bet

1bet brings a fresh and innovative approach to online sports betting in Malawi, featuring cutting-edge technology and many betting opportunities for sports fans.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit (MWK)	Deposit Methods
100% up to 110,000 MWK	35x wagering on bonus & deposit	37,000 MWK	VISA, Mastercard, eWallets, Mobile Money

#5 20Bet

20Bet is a highly regarded online sports betting platform in Malawi, offering a unique combination of live betting, virtual sports, and traditional betting options to satisfy all preferences.

Bonus	Requirements	Minimum Deposit (MWK)	Deposit Methods
100% up to 110,000 MWK	35x wagering on bonus & deposit	37,000 MWK	VISA, Mastercard, eWallets, Mobile Money

What do we take into account when picking the best bookmaker in Malawi?

In selecting the best bookmakers in Malawi, the Allbets team considered a range of factors to ensure a comprehensive list to help you begin or scale your journey in online betting.

Regulatory Adherence
Choose platforms prioritizing compliance with Malawian laws and regulations, including the Gaming Act and the Act on Virtual Currency Providers. This ensures your chosen platform operates ethically and protects your interests.
Alignment with Malawian Sports Preferences
While football is popular, it caters to local preferences for sports like netball, basketball, and traditional wrestling. Consider platforms offering extensive coverage and betting options for these sports to enhance user engagement. Malawians love the excitement of live betting. Choose platforms with robust live betting options for local and international matches, allowing users to bet on the action as it unfolds.
Payment Methods
Prioritize platforms that seamlessly integrate with popular mobile money options like TNM Mpamba and Airtel Money. This caters to the preferred payment method for most Malawians and ensures a convenient betting experience.
Responsible Gambling
Select websites that follow strict guidelines for safe gaming. Look for measures that shield users from possible addiction, such as deposit limits, self-exclusion mechanisms, and awareness campaigns.
Collaboration and Commitment:
A strong dedication to player safety and adherence to impending rules is shown by platforms collaborating with regional government offices or non-governmental organizations supporting responsible gaming practices.
Bonuses and Promotions
Seek websites that provide new players with enticing welcome bonuses. Nonetheless, prioritize trustworthy sites with reasonable bonus terms and conditions. Select platforms with frequent promotions and loyalty schemes to retain and reward current players.
User Interface and Customer Support
Choose a betting site that is simple to use, even for novice gamblers. Among the platforms in our pick are those that provide consistent and helpful customer care by phone, email, and live chat.

How to bet online in Malawi Sportsbook?

To bet on sports online in Malawi, you can follow these simple steps:

Select a Betting Site:
step 1
Look for reliable sports betting sites in Malawi. Compare various websites, particularly those well-known in Malawi, based on user evaluations and their reliability. Signing up for multiple sites can help determine which one has the most incredible odds for sporting events.
Sign Up:
step 2
When you pick a site, sign up by giving personal information and completing a verification step. Most sites provide a welcome bonus for new users. Understand the bonus's wagering requirements to get the best out of it.
Understanding Odds:
step 3
Learn about the odds the site offers. The odds are significant because they affect how much you can win. They can differ a lot between betting markets.
Select a Sports Event:
step 4
Go to the site's 'Sports' or 'In Play' sections. Look through the sports events list and pick one to bet on. It can be a popular sport or something less familiar.
Making a Bet:
step 5
First, use a bank transfer, credit card, or e-wallet to add money to your betting account. Next, choose the kind of wager and the stake amount. Confirm your bet to finish the process.

Popular Sports for Betting in Malawi

Sport is a popular pastime across Malawi, although sadly, they have yet to really feature on the world stage in many established sports. The official national sport of Malawi is Gendaball, it;s virtually unique to Malawi in terms of of being played as a competitive sport. It’s a game based on throwing balls into holes shaped on a wall, with various points awarded for where the balls end up. The other national sport is football, though the international team’s proudest achievement is a knockout appearance in the 2021 African Cup of Nations at the time of writing. There are plenty of other sports that are played and gambled on across the region, however. It’s worth looking at more popular sports as bookmakers target these with more offers and promotions than others on their sites that are specific to that nation. Below is a list of the most popular sports that are bet on in Malawi, including our favorite bookmaker for each sport.

Sport	Local Competition	Best Bookmaker	Main Highlight
Gendaball	No Major League	None known	National Sport
Football	Super League of Malawi	1xBet	Lots of offers
Horse Racing	Local meets	22Bet	Regular Races
American Football	No national league	1Bet	Niche Sport
MMA	Local Meets	20Bet	Odds Boosts
Boxing	Local Meets	TonyBet	Big Event Offers
Basketball	Basketball Africa League	Megapari	Niche Sport

How to Choose a Safe Bookmaker in Malawi

Malawi is no different from any other region in the world in terms of what bettors are looking for when choosing an online bookmaker. The first thing most bettors think about is the choice of sports, the range of markets, odds, payment terms, bonuses, and promotions. But following on from this, you also need to carefully consider if a site is safe to play at, whether they are regulated and financially secure, etc. These are the same kind of checks that you would want to carry out when choosing a company for anything else in your life. Below is a rundown of steps to follow and think about when you are choosing a new online bookmaker to register with.

Check Our Bookmaker review! We consider all the below with every review we complete for bookmakers, so this should be your first place to check!
Licensing & Regulation -That a site is fully regulated and licensed with the appropriate local authority, the Malawi Gaming Board (MAGLA ). Or check that they are regulated by an appropriate offshore authority (For instance, Malta, Curacao, or Costa Rica). Beware of any bookmakers without the correct licensing, we advise not to play at these sites under any circumstances.
How long have they been operating? - With any company, the longer they have been trading, the more you can relax when dealing with them, and this is also true with online casinos.
Customer Service -Having a good customer service setup shows that a casino cares about its users and deals with issues quickly.
Responsible Gambling Tools - A casino should have a broad range of tools to help you regulate your gambling, such as taking a break and setting limits.
User Reviews - You can tell a lot about how a site is performing by looking at what current users are saying about it online.
Data Management - Looking after users' data is an important part of running an online casino; any site you sign up for should have a proper data management strategy in place and encrypt data fully.
Payment Methods - You should be able to know that a casino is using trusted payment providers for your deposits and withdrawals.
Sports Team Sponsorship - If a casino sponsors a sports team, you can usually place more trust in them with your hard-earned bankroll.

New Betting Sites in Malawi November 2025

Malawi's online betting scene is booming with new, tech-forward sites. Here's a look at the top five best new betting sites in Malawi:

🔝 1xbet: A popular name in the online betting world. 1xbet stands out with its broad sports selection and user-friendly design. It's perfect for those seeking a modern and dynamic betting experience.
⚽ 22Bet: Known for its vast sports betting options and easy navigation, 22Bet is a favorite for its excellent customer service. It's suitable for Malawian players looking for a new betting platform.
🎁 Megapari: Megapari offers competitive odds for popular sports markets. It also has a variety of betting markets, especially on mobile. It's an excellent choice for on-the-go betting.
⚡ 20Bet: With a mix of live and virtual sports betting, plus traditional options, 20Bet is user-friendly and frequently runs promotions. It's a promising choice for Malawian sports fans.
🪙 1Bet: 1Bet brings the latest technology and a wide range of betting choices. Its innovative features attract tech-savvy bettors in Malawi.

Best sports betting apps in Malawi

Malawi's sports betting scene features mobile apps renowned for their seamless experience, varied betting choices, and strong security. We will examine the main features of these leading Malawian betting apps.

#1 1xbet App

1xbet is a widely recognized sports betting platform in Malawi that offers a comprehensive selection of sports and live betting options. The app is available for Android and iOS users, ensuring accessibility across various devices.

#2 22Bet App

22Bet is known for its seamless user experience and extensive sports betting options, making it popular among Malawian bettors. The platform also boasts strong customer support. It is accessible on Android and iOS platforms, providing versatility for users with different smartphones.

#3 Megapari App

Megapari's attractive odds and variety of betting markets appeal to a broad spectrum of Malawian bettors. The platform is especially well-known for providing an amazing mobile betting experience. Designed to meet the demands of mobile consumers, Megapari's app may be downloaded on iOS and Android smartphones.

How to Deposit at Malawi Betting Sites?

Depositing funds into Malawian online betting sites is easy. You can choose from many payment methods, each one fitting different preferences. Here is a simple guide to help you:

Cards: Most Malawian online gamblers use Visa and Mastercard. They are easy to use. This wide acceptance makes them the first choice for many.
Bank Transfers: The safe and conventional choice that allows you to direct payments from your bank account in Malawi. Generally available, but please allow 1-2 business days for processing.
Vouchers: Paysafecard and similar coupons enable purchases made at retail establishments to be made anonymously. Perfect for privacy and spending management; however, deposit limitations are less than with alternative options.
Mobile Money: Well-known options like TNM Mpamba and Airtel Money provide quick deposits with low fees. Excellent for privacy and ease, although transaction limits may be lower.
Cryptocurrencies: Digital assets are anonymous, safe, and quick. These are becoming more and more common at betting sites in Malawi.
Visa Direct: Using this cutting-edge technology, you may instantly fund your account at the betting site using your Visa card. Quick and easy, just make sure your bank and the betting site accept it first.

Payment Options	Deposit Time	Withdrawal Tim	Deposit Limits (MWK)	Withdrawal Limits (MWK)
Debit/Credit cards	Instant to 2 hours	Instant to 2 hours	500 - 300,000	1000 - 500,000
E-Wallets	Instant to 24 hours	Instant to 24 hours	500 - 300,000	1000 - 500,000
Vouchers	Instant to 24 hours	Instant to 24 hours	300 - 100,000	2,000 - 250,000
Mobile Money	Instant to 24 hours	Instant to 24 hours	300 - 150,000	500 - 150,000
Cryptocurrencies	1 - 30 minutes	1 - 30 minutes	300 - 300,000	300 - 500,000

The Future of Online Betting in Malawi

Future Malawian internet gambling is predicted to be dynamic, focusing on user experiences and rapid technology improvements. Experts predict that the simplicity of use and accessibility offered by mobile phones will contribute to the growth of mobile betting.

As Malawian gamblers look for various betting alternatives and experiences, these foreign platforms may continue to draw interest in Malawian online betting. The evolution of the market, the adoption of new payment methods, and prospective legal changes are all influenced by trends in mobile betting, which cater to the requirements and desires of bettors in Malawi.

Responsible Play in Sports Betting in Malawi

Although the gaming scene offers many potential, there are also many complicated difficulties facing this industry today, which makes responsible gambling a crucial policy issue.

In addition to being enjoyable, responsible gambling protects your health and preserves a positive sense of balance. While gambling, players must accept complete liability and responsibility. It's better to establish a bankroll as a responsible player, play within your means, and remember that games are for entertainment and pleasure only—not a way of life.

To get help in Malawi, Lifeline Malawi/ANPPCAN Malawi Chapter provides free and confidential support by phone.

Betting in Malawi: Conclusion

Malawi has a thriving and diverse sports betting industry. It serves both domestic and international wagerers. Bettors love to wager on their favorite sports, such as tennis, ice hockey, and football. The ease of placing wagers online adds to the whole experience.

Creating and following a budget and playing responsibly while gaming is essential. We wish all Malawian participants a fantastic experience when betting on sports in Malawi. Make wise decisions and relish the excitement. We wish you luck!

Best Betting Sites in Malawi by Category:

1xbet: A rich array of sports and immersive experiences 👌
22Bet: Sleek design with a user-centric approach 🌟
Megapari: Exceptional sports betting options and features ⚽
1Bet: Leading the way in cryptocurrency gaming innovation 🚀
20Bet: Diverse betting markets with robust platform reliability 🏇

FAQ. Frequently Asked Questions

Is betting legal in Malawi?
In Malawi, betting and all associated activities are permitted. A regulating agency monitors the betting businesses and ensures fair play is maintained.
Can people in Malawi bet on foreign betting sites?
Yes. Malawi has no stringent laws restricting citizens from betting at offshore betting sites.
What are the common sports in Malawi to bet on?
Football, ice hockey, tennis, and esports are popular betting sports in Malawi.
What means of payment are available in Malawi betting sites?
Players in Malawi have access to a wide range of betting choices on betting sites. Card payments, e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, and mobile money are popular.
Can I bet online in Malawi?
You may place bets and withdraw profits since internet betting is permitted nationwide.

Team Members

Martins Lasmanis
CEO
With more than 10 years of experience in online marketing, and special focus on the gambling affiliation sector over 5 years, Martin Lasmanis is a true expert in his niche. Today, Martin's vision is to build the largest lead generator company in the world. Fortunately, we have the perfect team to make his dream come true!
Arturs Korolkovs
Head of Affiliates
Marketing specialist with 3 years of experience in affiliate and social media marketing in the iGaming industry. His deep understanding of the industry and a proven track record of driving growth make him an important "player" on the team.