Some of the affected machines were previously licensed<\/strong> but no longer comply with the updated 2024 gambling framework<\/strong>. Authorities found that certain operators had installed machines outside approved venues or exceeded licensing limits<\/strong>, and older licensing agreements are no longer valid under the new regulations, which restrict slot machines to fully licensed casinos<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Jacques Habyarimana<\/strong>, Head of Gaming Activities at RDB, said: \u201cThese companies have been given a three-month deadline, that started in September 2025, to withdraw<\/strong> their machines and repatriate<\/strong> them to countries where they are permitted. By December, none of these machines should remain in Rwanda.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most affected companies had previously operated slot machine networks<\/strong> in small arcades, bars and retail outlets under older licensing agreements, which are no longer valid under the new regulations<\/strong>. Under the revised framework,<\/strong> these business models no longer comply, ensuring that slot machines are only used responsibly within regulated casino environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The RDB, in partnership with Enviroserve<\/strong> Rwanda, has launched a nationwide crackdown targeting over 7,000 unlicensed slot machines. Authorities are dismantling and recycling the machines to curb gambling-related harm and ensure safe disposal of hazardous electronic components<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Officials recently oversaw dismantling at a recycling facility in Bugesera District. Olivier Mber<\/strong>a, Country General Manager of Enviroserve Rwanda, said: \u201cWe are currently dealing with over 7,000 slot machines<\/strong>. So far, we have collected more than 3,500 from Kigali and the Eastern Province.\u201d The collection drive, which began two months ago, is expanding into the Southern, Western and Northern provinces<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During dismantling, hazardous materials are separated<\/strong> from reusable parts<\/strong>. Steel, copper and aluminium are recovered; plastics are sent to Asia for recycling into clothing fibres; and circuit boards containing precious metals are exported<\/strong> to Dubai for smelting. Enviroserve is also training local youth in safe dismantling practices, thereby creating new employment and skills development opportunities<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Authorities are enforcing Rwanda\u2019s national gambling policy<\/strong>, which emphasises responsible gambling, minimising social harm, maximising economic benefits and strengthening regulatory oversight<\/strong>. Although legalised under a 2011 law, misuse and unauthorised installations<\/strong> in local communities led to a ban in 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The government aims to have all unlicensed and non-compliant machines<\/strong> removed by December 2025, marking a significant step in overhauling the country\u2019s gaming sector.<\/p>\n\n\nBroader crackdown on unlicensed slot machines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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