Uganda’s regulatory body urges investment in homegrown gaming tech
Gaming Regulatory Board calls for more investment in homegrown gaming technology to transform Uganda into Africa’s digital gaming powerhouse and reclaim billions lost to foreign firms.
Uganda.- Uganda can no longer afford to be just a consumer of foreign gaming technology. It must become a leader in developing its own, says the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB).
In a clarion call for change, NLGRB CEO Denis Mudene Ngabirano is pushing for a bold shift that would see Uganda transform into a creator and exporter of homegrown gaming solutions.
“Our vision is clear that Uganda should not merely adopt foreign technologies but become a leader in developing homegrown gaming technologies. This will involve transforming today’s imports into tomorrow’s locally manufactured gaming systems and positioning Uganda as a regional hub in Africa’s digital gaming revolution,” Ngabirano said in a blog post.
Uganda’s igaming sector is currently thriving, yet the lion’s share of technology, innovation and revenue flows from abroad. NLGRB estimates that foreign software providers alone earn over Shs100 billion ($28m) annually from Uganda’s gaming market.
However, little of this revenue is reinvested in local skills development or infrastructure and Ngabirano insists this must change. There is already evidence of local success, he claims.
To fuel this homegrown igaming future, the NLGRB is advocating for policies that compel global gaming giants like Novomatic to form partnerships with local firms and academic institutions. It is calling on the government to offer tax incentives, create digital innovation zones, and support entrepreneurship and upskilling initiatives in igaming technology.
New training programs could focus on game machine engineering, data analytics and artificial intelligence for responsible gambling, equipping Ugandans with vital skills to lead ethically and innovatively.
The National ICT Innovation Hub is emerging as a key force in shaping the country’s digital future. Ngabirano says it is giving local developers the tools and access they need, like open APIs from international companies, to build smart, relevant gaming solutions.
He said that as Uganda advances towards a digital future, the gaming sector presents a significant opportunity to drive local innovation and inclusive economic development.
Recognising this, the NLGRB has prioritised innovation in its Strategic Plan 2025/26 – 2029/30, with a focus on stimulating ICT growth, nurturing local talent and fostering partnerships between Ugandan institutions and global leaders in tech. With more investment, Uganda can replicate and scale success projects. With more investment, Uganda can replicate and scale success projects.
This effort goes beyond technology and marks a bold move for Uganda to reclaim economic control. With the right vision, investment and willpower, the country has a chance not just to play the game but to own it.
