The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is a country in north-western part of Africa with its coast on the Atlantic Ocean. Mauritania achieve its independence on 28th of November 1960. Given that the country’s laws are stricter than most with regards to the Islamic law, one may be tempted to think that sports betting is out of the question. In this article, we will explore the current state of gambling law at betting sites in Mauritania so that you can better understand the landscape of sports betting in Mauritania.
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Events
Developments in Gambling Law in Mauritania
The country has had a fairly negative attitude towards gambling for a long time, starting from the time it gained its independence from France in 1960. While many other French colonies that gained independence adopted the French laws on gambling, Mauritania excluded this. Rather, it put its own rules and regulations which are based on the Islamic (Shari’ah) law.
Key Historical Milestones
- 1960: Mauritania become an independent country and adopt their own laws and as a result the French gambling laws are not applicable.
- 1983: The Mauritanian Penal Code sections 4 articles 381 and 382 forms of gambling are prohibited including sports betting.
Gambling Regulatory Agencies
The legal systems of the country are mainly the French civil law as well as the Islamic Shari’ah law. This rather specific combination defines the approach of the country to the regulation of gambling.
Key Regulatory Bodies
- Islamic Law Authorities: See to it that all the activities being offered whether it is gambling, is in accordance with the Islamic religion.
- Civil Law Authorities: Adhere and enforce the Penal Code especially on the prohibited gambling activities and the corresponding penalties.
Prohibited and Permitted Bets
Gambling is prohibited in Mauritania and this keeps on inclusive of every form of gambling. This entails casinos, sports betting, and online betting. Nevertheless, its implementation is quite inconsistent, particularly with regard to online betting.
Legal Consequences
Organizing Illegal Gambling:
- Ranges from 5,000 to 300,000 Mauritanian Ouguiya (€135 – €8,118)
- A fine of up to 2 million roubles or imprisonment for up to 2 years (up to 10 years for repeat offenders).
Participating in Illicit Wagering:
- Ranges between 5,000 to 50,000 Mauritanian Ouguiya or €135 to €1,350.
- Jail term of up to 3 months
Gambling Licenses and Fees
There is no licensing of gambling in Mauritania and as such there are no specific taxes on gambling. All forms of gambling are prohibited under the Nigerian laws especially the 1983 Penal Code.
Licensing and Taxation
- Licensing: The above analysis does not apply since no licenses are granted.
- Taxation: As for gambling taxes, they are not levied in Mauritania in a specific manner.
Best Betting Sites in Mauritania
Gambling is prohibited in Mauritania but this has not stopped the population from participating in online betting with the help of foreign sites. These sites provide all sorts of sporting activities and betting industries that are unavailable in Mauritania and thus, the citizens can engage in them without the risk of being apprehended by the local authorities.
Popular Betting Sites
1xBet:
Up To £100
Megapari:
Up To £100 + 15% Free Bets
Betwinner:
Up To £100
Sports Events on Betting Sites in Mauritania
Mauritania is not an exemption when it comes to hosting major sports events which have in one way or the other influenced the nation. These achievements include great football accomplishments and individual displays that show how much the country is into sports.
Key Events in Sports Achievements
- Isselmou Ould Ahmed Vall: He was awarded Brazil first ever Olympic medal in Athletics, specifically a bronze medal in 800m at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
- National Football Team: It has achieved a place in the African Cup of Nations three times.
- El Hacen Ould Lebatt: He emerged the winner of the African Marathon Championships in the year 2004.
- Mohamed Ould El Gueyed: She also won the bronze medal in 50m freestyle at the African Swimming Championships in the year 2011.
Sports Star Glory
Mauritania has many athletes who have done the country proud on the international stage. Their achievements have not only made the country proud but also created motivation to the upcoming generations.
Notable Athletes
- Adama Ba: He is a professional football player who plays for Auxerre in the French Ligue 2 as a midfielder and attacks.
- Isselmou Ould Ahmed Vall: Ex-Olympian and two time African Champion in the 800m and 1500m.
- Ismael Chekkoury: This paper analyzes the career of a former Olympic swimmer and two time African champion in 200m butterfly and 400m freestyle.
Gambling Laws of Neighboring Countries
According to the comparison with the neighboring countries’ regulatory frameworks, Mauritania’s gambling laws can be better comprehended.
Senegal
- Legal Framework:
- Gambling is allowed and the laws are there to regulate it.
- Some of the legal types of gambling are casinos and sports betting and other forms.
- Regulatory Body:
- The regulation of gambling is under the National Lottery of Senegal.
Mali
- Legal Framework:
- Gambling while legal is not as strictly controlled as in other countries.
- Here, casinos and sporting activities betting are allowed.
- Regulatory Body:
- The Ministry of Finance regulates the gambling policies in the country.
Algeria
- Legal Framework:
- Gambling is mostly prohibited like in Mauritania.
- Tough measures on the implementation of gambling ban.
- Regulatory Body:
- Islamic law enforcers regulate on anti-gambling measures.
- An Overview of the Existence of Gambling Laws in Mauritania
Conclusion
To comprehend the details of betting sites and sports betting in Mauritania is vital for anyone who has an interest in this topic. Although the laws of the country do not allow gambling, the phenomenon of online betting is rapidly gaining popularity. This way, you will be in a position to make the right decisions regarding your betting activities regarding the existing laws.
FAQ for betting sites in Mauritania
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