Tanzania Suspends New Foreign Gaming Machine Licences and Plans Revenue-Sharing Reform

Tanzania has suspended the issuance of new gaming machine licences to foreign operators while authorities assess the sector's economic and social impact. The government is also preparing a revenue-sharing agreement with local councils and introducing electronic monitoring.

Tanzania is tightening oversight of its gaming machine industry, with the Gaming Board of Tanzania (GBT) suspending new licences for foreign operators of slot machines, locally known as madubwi.

Deputy Finance Minister Mshamu Munde announced the measure in Parliament on October 29, explaining that authorities intend to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the machines' social and economic impact, particularly in rural communities.

The announcement follows an earlier GBT notice issued in April 2026, which temporarily halted new slot machine and route-operation licences while the regulator developed an Electronic Monitoring System. Authorities have not clarified whether the latest restriction represents an extension of that suspension or a separate measure targeting foreign applicants.

The government is also finalising a revenue-sharing agreement between central authorities and local councils. The proposed arrangement is intended to strengthen local oversight and determine how revenue generated by gaming machines will be distributed. Specific percentages have not yet been announced.

Meanwhile, the GBT is developing technology to monitor gaming machines in real time, supported by cooperation with local government bodies, tax authorities and law enforcement agencies.

Over the past three years, Tanzanian authorities have seized and destroyed 1,702 gaming machines during operations against illegal gambling businesses.

Munde acknowledged concerns about gambling addiction but noted that available research had not established a direct connection between gaming machines and broader claims of moral decline.

The measures could reshape licensing conditions for international gaming businesses and equipment suppliers. Further clarity on the duration of the suspension and implementation of electronic monitoring will be essential for companies assessing opportunities in Tanzania.