The NLGRB recently convened licensed operators at Mestil for a focused stakeholder engagement on compliance. The face-to-face session attracted chief executives, legal advisers, and technical managers who welcomed the chance to clarify obligations, share operational challenges, and hear first-hand about upcoming regulatory advancements.
In his opening remarks, Denis Mudene, the Chief Executive Officer of the NLGRB, thanked the operators for attending and revealed two significant developments. First, the NLGRB headquarters will relocate to Luthuli House in Bugolobi. Second, regional offices in Gulu, Mbale, and Jinja are expected to open by the end of July. These branches are expected to ease licence processing, shorten inspection response times, and improve access to guidance for firms operating outside the capital.
Mr. Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri, Chairman of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board, set the tone for the day. He explained that the meeting aimed to deepen understanding of four areas: adherence to the Lotteries and Gaming Act, Cap 334, and its attendant regulations; anti-money laundering requirements; licensing and operational standards; and integration with the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS).
“Compliance is not a burden, and it is the baseline. It is the foundation upon which a credible and sustainable industry is built. When operators fully comply with the law, the sector benefits: Public confidence is enhanced, government revenue increases, and vulnerable populations, especially the youth, are better protected,” said Aloysious Mugasa Adyeri.
After the Board’s presentations, the discussion shifted to the private sector. Speaking on behalf of operators, David Kyilonde announced that operators had formed an association that they believe will support the Board in fulfilling its purpose and confirmed his role as the Association’s General Secretary. Many attendees welcomed the initiative, arguing that a unified industry body could streamline consultations and foster voluntary best-practice programmes that complement statutory oversight.
Regulatory compliance team pinpoints key gaps
Richard Muteesaasira Kavuma, Senior Manager of Regulatory Compliance, delivered a detailed briefing on information technology safeguards, and data reporting formats. He pointed out that, “Compliance with the regulatory requirements will improve the operator’s performance and keep the regulator’s whip away.”
The closing segment emphasised that stakeholder engagement is intended not only to identify compliance gaps but also to develop realistic solutions. In return, operators committed to sharing anonymised player data that might assist the regulator in crafting evidence-based policies.