Uganda needs adaptable online gambling laws, says regulatory chair
Chairman Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri calls for policy innovation as digital betting surges across Uganda.
Uganda.- Uganda’s top gaming regulator has called for a more flexible, forward-thinking approach to gambling legislation as the country’s digital gaming footprint continues to grow. In a June 11 blog, Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri, Chairman of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), urged policymakers to embrace adaptable regulation that balances innovation with responsibility.
“In the bustling streets of Kampala, from the busy thoroughfares of Wandegeya to the vibrant trading centres of Mbale, a transformation has taken place,” Adyeri reflected. That transformation, he says, is the rise of betting, from informal street corners to sophisticated online platforms that now operates 24/7 across Uganda.
The catalyst behind this boom? Widespread smartphone use and mobile money platforms, which have democratised access to gambling markets, especially among youth. Bettors are now wagering on everything from Premier League football to local matches, lured by life-changing jackpots and the thrill of the game.
But Adyeri is clear-eyed about the challenges.
“Recent studies indicate that a notable percentage of regular gamblers in Uganda exhibit signs of problem gambling, a figure that demands attention,” he warns.
While the Lotteries and Gaming Act No. 7 of 2016 established the NLGRB to bring order to a previously unchecked sector, Adyeri believes the time has come to revise Uganda’s approach.
“Adaptable policies are no longer optional, they are essential,” he stresses in the blog.
The numbers support his call
Globally, online gambling was valued at $69.12bn($69.12bn) in 2023, projected to soar to $178.25bn ($178.25bn) by 2032, according to Straits Research. Uganda, though still catching up in terms of infrastructure, is part of that global wave.
To safeguard citizens, the Board has implemented responsible gaming initiatives, including self-exclusion programs, counselling support via a dedicated Call Centre, and nationwide awareness campaigns involving boda boda riders, teachers and even the Uganda Sports Press Association.
“Responsible Gaming is not just a slogan, it’s a commitment,” Adyeri insists.
He highlighted the introduction of the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS) that tracks gaming data in real-time to prevent illegal activity and ensure tax compliance.
“We’re not just enforcing rules, we’re shaping a culture,” he concludes.
“With the right balance of freedom and protection, Uganda can become a regional leader in responsible gaming.”
