Uganda has joined other African countries in marking the inaugural Africa Safer Gambling Week, with the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) highlighting the importance of stronger player protection as the country’s gaming industry continues to expand.
According to the NLGRB, Uganda’s gaming sector generated UGX 355.4 billion in government revenue during FY2025/26 and supports more than 24,000 jobs. However, the regulator noted that the industry’s growth also brings greater responsibility to protect players from gambling-related harm.
With approximately 93% of gaming activity in Uganda now taking place online, the NLGRB said player protection has become increasingly important as consumers gain greater access to digital gaming platforms. The regulator outlined three key areas underpinning its responsible gaming approach: prevention, protection and support.
The NLGRB said education remains a key component of its efforts to prevent gambling-related harm, particularly among young people and communities. Through school and community programmes, the regulator has reached more than 33,500 students and 1,600 teachers, promoting the message that gaming should be viewed as entertainment rather than a source of income.
Technology is also being used to strengthen safeguards across Uganda’s gaming sector. The NLGRB highlighted the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS) as an important tool for improving visibility across gaming activities and supporting player protection measures, including self-exclusion.
According to the regulator, more than 16,700 players have been registered for self-exclusion. The NLGRB has also continued enforcement action against illegal gaming operations, reporting the confiscation of more than 9,400 illegal gaming machines since FY2021/22
Beyond prevention and enforcement, the regulator said it provides access to confidential counseling and rehabilitation services for individuals experiencing gambling-related harm. The NLGRB is also taking its responsible gaming initiatives directly into communities, engaging groups including boda boda riders, market communities and students to encourage greater awareness of the risks associated with gambling.
The regulator stressed that responsible gaming should not be viewed solely as a regulatory obligation, but as a shared responsibility involving regulators, operators, communities and players. It encouraged members of the public to set personal gambling limits, avoid borrowing money to gamble and refrain from chasing losses.
As Uganda participates in the inaugural Africa Safer Gambling Week, the regulator said its efforts reflect the need for a responsible gaming environment that balances industry growth with effective player protection.
