Uganda launches new National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Boardrewrite above title

Key points:

– Uganda’s new gaming regulator has officially begun operations
– The Board is tasked with regulating both lotteries and betting in the country
– Lawmakers are urging the body to prioritise gambling addiction prevention

Uganda’s new National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has started its work. Legislators are urging the board to help with the growing issues related to gambling harm.

The Board was started in a formal meeting in Kampala. It is now in charge of the country’s betting and lottery sectors. Officials highlighted the need for regulation to go beyond licensing and enforcement. Several speakers expressed concern over betting addiction, particularly among young people, and encouraged the board to prioritise public protection in its mandate.
Members of Parliament stressed the need for the regulator to balance market oversight with consumer protection.

Officials from the Ministry of Finance were also at the launch. They said that creating the Board is part of a plan. This plan aims to formalize and better monitor gambling activities in the country.

Matia Kasaija, the Minister of Finance, started the new Board. He said, “The Government sees the gaming sector as important. It is a source of non-tax revenue and helps promote responsible gaming.”

Good to know: Uganda recently allocated betting tax revenue to support AFCON 2027 preparations

While Uganda has experienced growth in its gaming sector, concerns about underage gambling, unlicensed operators and increasing social impacts have drawn greater scrutiny from the country’s Government.

The Board is expected to develop new policies, collaborate with stakeholders and implement a framework that addresses both market regulation and consumer protection.