Burundi LONA warns against illegal betting at Bujumbura press conference
Licensed concessionaires are required to contribute 10 per cent of the profits generated from their operations.
Burundi.- The Loterie Nationale du Burundi (LONA) has warned gambling companies, street agents and payment service providers against participating in illegal gambling operations, as it steps up enforcement of the country’s regulated gaming market.
The warning was issued during a press conference held on June 26 at the Zion Mount Hotel in Bujumbura, where the regulator addressed illegal gambling practices and reminded stakeholders of the obligations that apply to licensed operators.
LONA said unlicensed gambling reduces government revenue and operates outside regulatory oversight. The organisation urged companies, mobile agents and payment houses involved in illegal activities to comply with the law or face sanctions.
During the briefing, the head of LONA’s commercial department also explained the contribution structure for lottery games offered through licensed concessionaires.
He said players are required to contribute 10 per cent of every deposit and 10 per cent of every withdrawal made through authorised lottery platforms. Licensed concessionaires are also required to contribute 10 per cent of the profits generated from their operations.
According to the regulator, these contributions are part of the financial obligations governing licensed lottery operations in Burundi and go towards funding public interest programmes.
LONA said enforcing the legal framework is intended to protect government revenue, and ensure licensed operators meet their statutory obligations.
The announcement comes as Burundi continues implementing reforms aimed at strengthening oversight of its gambling industry. The country is moving towards a centralised regulatory framework that will increase supervision of licensed operators, improve revenue collection and enhance measures against illegal gambling.
