To strengthen collaboration among stakeholders and enhance regulatory enforcement in Uganda’s gaming industry, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) conducted a high-level meeting with officials from the Uganda Police Force in the Rwizi Region. The event took place at Lake View Hotel in Mbarara on May 27, 2025, bringing together District Police Commanders (DPCs), Officers in Charge of Criminal Investigations (OCIDs), local leaders, and other technical stakeholders from the region.
The main focus was on aligning enforcement strategies, improving compliance, and deepening understanding of Uganda’s gaming laws under the Lotteries and Gaming Act, Cap 334. During the opening remarks, NLGRB CEO Mr. Denis Mudene highlighted the importance of strategic collaboration between the Board and the Uganda Police Force in enforcing gaming regulations to protect citizens and maintain public order.
“Gaming is not a business or a guaranteed money-making venture. It is a leisure activity, and we encourage only those of legal age to participate responsibly,” Mr. Mudene stated.
A significant point discussed was the clarification of age restrictions in gaming. Mr. Mudene explained that while sports betting, casino games, and bingo are strictly reserved for individuals aged 25 and above, the National Lottery—issued by the Minister of Finance for public good causes—is open to those aged 18 and above.
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“The national lottery is the only license that permits participation from 18 years. This distinction is important to ensure both the public and operators comply with the law,” he clarified.
He also expressed concern over the increasing trend of children using parents’ phones to gamble online. He warned parents against registering SIM cards under their names and passing them to minors, as this makes it easier for underage gambling to go unnoticed.
“93% of gambling happens online, mostly by corporates. However, when a phone registered in a parent’s name is used by a 15-year-old, they pass all verification checks,” he explained, emphasizing responsible digital parenting.
Mbarara City Mayor, Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, praised the Board’s efforts in bringing regulatory oversight closer to communities. He expressed concern over the proliferation of unlicensed betting operations and children misusing school fees or resorting to theft to fund gambling.
“We appreciate this engagement. It’s been a problem for us to control betting centres operating illegally. Now, with the clarification that sports betting is for those aged 25 and above, it gives us a firmer ground for enforcement,” the mayor said.
He called for strict measures against operators who violate regulations, indicating that revoking licenses alone is insufficient and that arrests should follow when crimes are committed.
Deputy Regional Police Commander for Rwizi Region, SSP Bosco Bakashaba, reaffirmed the Uganda Police Force’s commitment to working with the NLGRB to uphold the law.
“We shall offer total support to reduce offenses and illegal operations. Gaming houses that admit underage individuals or operate without licenses, especially in villages, will face legal consequences,” SSP Bakashaba asserted.
He pointed out the use of crime intelligence and informants to trace illegal slot machines and betting centres in unauthorized areas.
“Gaming is like a razorblade, used correctly, it’s useful. Used wrongly, it causes harm,” he concluded.
Since its establishment in 2017, the NLGRB has steadily increased its presence. Starting July 1, 2025, regional offices in Mbarara, Gulu, and Mbale will become operational, with plans to establish a total of six offices nationwide to improve oversight and service delivery.
The meeting emphasized the importance of ongoing awareness campaigns, collaborative enforcement, and community responsibility in addressing the social risks linked to gambling.