Minister Atanga Nji’s Ban on Betting Deposits Reversed

It’s the weekend, the period most Cameroonians bet on because of numerous games in Europe like the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1. On Saturday, many could not bet because Betpawa, 1xbet, Betwinner, and Betmomo were not receiving deposits. The deposit option wasn’t available. Instead, what was indicated was a message showing that the networks, like MTN or Orange, were unavailable. Many couldn’t withstand the pain of seeing their favourite teams play without them cashing out. However, Betpawa appeared not to be the only betting platform not receiving deposits.

Minister Atanga Nji’s Interference

While speculations were rife online as to what happened, a letter from Atanga Nji, Minister of Territorial Administration, dated January 22, started circulating online. According to the letter addressed to Orange Manager, the minister said, “As part of the regulation of the gambling and games of chance sector, the Ministry of Territorial Administration, the administration responsible for games, has decided to set up a control system to better monitor operators in this sector.” According to the minister, in this regard, the partner company INTOUCH Cameroon, whose headquarters is in Douala, was selected by the administration. “As a result, all operations related to the reloading and unloading of online player accounts must go exclusively through the technical integrator designated above as of January 30, 2025.” The new order seemed to have been responsible for why platforms were denying deposits.

Betpawa had put up a notification saying, “Deposits through MTN are currently unavailable. We’re working with them to resolve this as quickly as possible. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.” Before that, it had informed clients that “unexpected regulatory changes have given InTouch Group exclusive rights to process gaming payments. Your money is safe, and we’re working to continue to offer you the best BetPawa user experience.” Other gaming sites, meanwhile, reported that the online deposit had been halted in response to a directive from Paul Atanga Nji, the interior minister.  As such, they were redirecting all online stakers to physical networks, which included agencies, kiosks, and express shops.

Decision Reversed – Platforms Back to Normal

However, the government has reversed the decision, allowing betting platforms to resume normal operations. Following widespread public outcry and concerns from stakeholders in the gaming industry, the Ministry of Territorial Administration announced that online deposits can now proceed as usual.

Betpawa, 1xbet, Betwinner, and Betmomo have since reinstated their deposit options, and users can now fund their accounts seamlessly through MTN and Orange networks. A new statement from Betpawa reads, “We are pleased to inform our users that deposits are now fully operational. Thank you for your patience and support.”

This sudden reversal has been met with relief from the betting community, with many expressing joy at being able to place their wagers once again.

Many cry. Many rejoice.

Statistics show that about 44 percent of the Cameroonian population is involved in sports betting. Owing to growing poverty and lack of jobs, many now rely on betting with hopes to make millions. Statista projects that the betting market in Cameroon will grow by 5 percent between 2025 and 2029. This will result in a market volume of 33 billion FCFA by 2029. That is why when many couldn’t deposit, they invaded online betting platforms on the official Facebook page.

Comments under the Betpawa post were unique. “Deposit isn’t going through,” many said. “Match starts in 28 mins. Still, I can’t deposit. Just know you guys have lost a customer. I have a sure match today. Why are you people this wicked? I have texted Telegram yet no response. BetPawa Cameroun,” a girl by the name of Choco Stress, commented. Mark Graphic said, “Dishonest good guys… As soon as the algorithms report the victories on the favourite teams of the day’s bets, they block the deposits to prevent people from betting, for fear of paying… But when the matches are likely to make the bettors lose, the network never bothers… All the matches with the code 2UP will pass today. A hell of a rating; they know they are blocked.”

With the decision now reversed, many bettors are breathing a sigh of relief, eager to resume their betting activities without further interruptions.

Mimi Mefo Info