Uganda’s gambling sector soars: Six-fold revenue growth in just five years
Sharp reforms and stronger regulation fuel job creation, investor confidence and booming government earnings.
Uganda.- Uganda’s gambling sector has seen massive growth in the last five years, with annual revenue now six times higher than it was before. This is a sure indication that a well-regulated industry can help create jobs, attract investment and boost government funds.
In 2019/20, gaming revenue stood at UGX 50.6bn ($14.1m). By 2024/25, it had climbed to UGX 323bn ($90.2m), representing more than a sixfold increase and demonstrating a strong upward trend in Uganda’s gambling industry.
These statistics were released by the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) during the recent swearing-in ceremony of the new leadership, showcasing the impressive strides made by the outgoing board.
The total amount wagered by Ugandans saw a dramatic rise. In 2021/22, people bet a total of UGX 500bn ($139.0m), but by 2024/25, that number had jumped to UGX 8trn ($2.24bn).
Non-tax revenue, which comes from fees, penalties and other charges, also rose substantially. It increased eight times, from UGX 1.14bn ($318,000) in 2019/20 to UGX 8.79bn ($2.46m) in 2024/25.
This shows the sector is growing fast and becoming more transparent. In addition, it is now bringing in serious government revenue, creating jobs and attracting new investors.
New board sworn in, outgoing leadership praised
At the ceremony held on July 24 to swear in the leadership of the new board, Finance Minister Hon. Matia Kasaija praised the old board’s impactful measures, which he said transformed the sector into a formal and compliant business.
He also singled out the outstanding work done by outgoing board Chair, Aloysius Adyeri, and CEO Denis Ngabirano.
“The outgoing Board was entrusted with the responsibility to transform the gaming sector. They did not just preserve the status quo; they improved, multiplied and grew the institution and its outcomes. Thank you for your integrity, diligence and patriotism,” said Kasaija, according to a press release.
Outgoing Board Chair Adyeri said he’s proud of what the Board achieved. “As I step down, I carry with me not only satisfaction in what we have achieved but also great optimism for what lies ahead. I am confident the NLGRB will continue to grow stronger and more impactful.”
Some key wins from the outgoing board include launching the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS), bringing unregulated operators into the formal sector and appointing Ithuba Uganda Limited as the National Lottery Operator.
The new board, led by Kenneth Kitariko, brings experience in regulation, law enforcement, tax and sports governance. William Blick serves as vice chairperson, drawing on his background in international sports governance.
Together with others, the team is ready to carry on the work and help Uganda’s gaming sector keep growing while staying well-regulated. The minister said he believes they’re the right group to lead the way forward.
