We present a comprehensive rating of bookmaking companies offering their services to players in Rwanda.
Bookmaker Evaluation Methodology
The rating of a bookmaker company is based on a comprehensive evaluation of dozens of factors, divided into eight categories. Each category is rated by a group of specialists on a ten-point scale, with precision to tenths. The range of scores for each item is from 0 to 10.
Another point worth noting is that all items have different weights, reflected in coefficients.
The final rating score is formed as the sum of all scores, each multiplied by its coefficient. The coefficients are arranged so that if maximum scores are obtained in each category, the total score would be 100.
Thus, when forming the overall score, the following criteria are considered:
- Reliability and Safety – coefficient 1.8. This includes the presence of a license for the bookmaker and the place of its issuance. The absence of issues with personal data protection and the security of financial transactions are also studied. Player reviews are also considered;
- Reputation – coefficient 1.5. This assesses the overall brand image based on feedback about it, as well as its recognition in the country;
- Technology and Usability – coefficient 1.3. This evaluates the official website, its interface, ergonomics, design, and structure. The availability of a mobile version and mobile apps is also considered;
- Sports Betting Options – coefficient 1.3. The variety of sports and tournaments available for betting is assessed, as well as the number of options for specific events, the size of odds, and the margin. The live betting section is also considered;
- Payments – coefficient 1.2. This evaluates the variety of payment systems, the speed of deposit and withdrawal transactions, limits, and potential or real issues;
- Localization for the Local Player – coefficient 1.1. This assesses the availability of languages used by local users and support for the country’s official currency. Attention to local competitions and athletes is also considered;
- Bonuses and Promotions – coefficient 1.0. The bonus program and the presence of regular or irregular promotions are assessed, as well as the conditions for redeeming bonus funds;
- Support – coefficient 0.8. The convenience and variety of methods to contact support, as well as the speed of response and competence of employees, are evaluated.
To better understand the methodology for calculating the final score, let us provide an example:
| Criteria | Score | Coefficient | Score based on the coefficient |
| Reliability and Safety | 9,5 | 1,8 | 17,1 |
| Reputation | 9,2 | 1,5 | 13,8 |
| Technology and Usability | 8,8 | 1,3 | 11,44 |
| Sports Betting Options | 9,2 | 1,3 | 11,96 |
| Payments | 8,1 | 1,2 | 9,72 |
| Localization for the Local Player | 10 | 1,1 | 11 |
| Bonuses and Promotions | 7,9 | 1,0 | 7,9 |
| Support | 9,6 | 0,8 | 7,68 |
| Final Score | 90,6 | ||
Our portal does not collaborate with any bookmaking company. All the information for evaluating companies and forming the rating is taken from public sources and our own experience.
The Licensing of Bookmakers in the Country
The history of gambling in Rwanda is quite extensive. However, for a long time, local players were forced to use the services of illegal and unofficial bookmakers, often placing bets in underground establishments.
A significant shift occurred at the end of 2011 when the first law to regulate the gambling business was introduced. With some amendments, it still operates today. The key regulatory body is the Rwanda Gambling Board, which reports to the country’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. It is the Board that issues licenses to local bookmaking companies.
Interestingly, Rwanda’s gambling legislation completely ignores international bookmaking companies operating online. Thus, even without a local license, they can quite freely serve local players.
There are two important rules for the players themselves. First, only adults (those who have reached the age of 18) are allowed to play. Second, all winnings over 30,000 RWF at legal bookmaking offices are taxed at a 15% rate.
CAUTION: Remember that sports betting should be considered and positioned solely as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money. If you feel an uncontrollable desire to play and want to bet more frequently, immediately seek advice and help from a specialist.
How a Bookmaker Obtains a License to Operate in the Country
The licensing procedure is quite interesting and non-standard. Bookmaking companies that have physical betting points and have obtained a license for their operation automatically receive an online operating license as well. However, there is no mechanism for licensing companies that operate exclusively online in the country.
The activity of international betting companies in Rwanda via the Internet is not restricted by law. They are simply not mentioned. This creates a paradoxical situation: on one hand, they do not have a local license, but on the other hand, they cannot be called illegal due to the absence of a mechanism for this very legalization.
The country is only just beginning to pay closer attention to the operation of bookmaking companies on the Internet. Currently, there are no mechanisms for licensing them as separate entities, but this is expected to appear soon.
TOP of the Best Legal Bookmakers in the Country Today
Betpawa is a well-known African brand operating in 12 countries on this continent. In each of these countries, there is a separate local version of the site adapted specifically for local players. In Rwanda, the brand is represented by Choplife Gaming Limited, which has a Softpawa Ltd UK license.
Forzza bet. A British bookmaking brand that operates almost worldwide. It is significantly present in Rwanda as well. The official site is available in four different languages, allowing it to cover a maximally broad audience. The company operates under a license 365/JAZ obtained in Curaçao.
Fortebet is one of the most well-known bookmaking brands in Rwanda. It has been present in the country for about 10 years and accepts bets both in physical locations and online. The main advantage of this bookmaker is high odds. It has a betting license from the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Rwanda.
Of course, choosing a bookmaker is a personal matter for each individual, and tastes, as they say, are not to be disputed. However, we still recommend paying attention to our rating. Thanks to a comprehensive assessment by many independent specialists, it objectively reflects the situation on the Rwandan bookmaking market.
Frequently Asked Questions by Players
Can you gamble at international bookmakers online while in Rwanda?
Yes, local legislation does not regulate the activity of foreign online bookmakers.
What is the tax on winnings at legal bookmakers in Rwanda?
15%, but only on winnings over 30,000 RWF.
Can minors bet on sports in Rwanda?
No, only persons who have reached the age of 18 are allowed to play.
Do Rwandan bookmakers work with international payment systems?
This depends on the specific company, but the vast majority support international bank cards, electronic wallets, and payment systems.
What are the maximum and minimum possible ratings in your ranking?
Ratings for a specific indicator range from 0 to 10, while the overall score can range from 0 to 100.
