The NLGRB promotes cooperation within the industry amid legislative amendments
In a meeting held at Mestil Hotel on 11th April 2025, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) of Uganda took a step towards consolidating the regulatory framework of the gaming industry. The meeting brought together operators to discuss draft amendments to the Lotteries and Gaming Act Cap. 334. The move is a representation of commitment to fostering an open-minded spirit as the industry encounters new challenges and possibilities.
Promoting consensus for regulatory reform
The gathering was intended to help gather input from multiple stakeholders within the industry. Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri, Chairman of the NLGRB, stressed the need for consensus discussion in establishing an equitable gaming policy. “The intention of this dialogue is not to swap changes but to agree. To listen, consult, and refine. These amendments are not set in stone. “They have to be based on industry realities,” he stated. These remarks are an indication of a shared dedication to working together for unified reform.
While speaking on the need for modernisation in the existing laws, Mugasa Adyeri stated, “The law is old. We are amending it to guide us through the challenges of the times. We seek to interpret the indefinite provisions within the law, particularly in new fields such as internet gaming.” The suggested amendments to the regulatory framework are intended to bring clarity to sectors with rapid technological advancement, ensuring that Ugandan regulations are capable of keeping pace with modern gaming activities.
The discussion also represented a significant leap towards the encouragement of corporate social responsibility within the gaming industry.
The move by the NLGRB to re-introduce a 1% turnover contribution was announced to encourage operators to make a positive contribution to society. “The 1% turnover contribution is being reintroduced so that it can help us to galvanise our corporate social responsibility. We want the gaming industry to contribute to society and the community,” stated Mugasa Adyeri.
This campaign not only cements the gaming industry as a valuable economic contributor but also highlights its contribution to social well-being nationwide.
Enhancing industry voice and economic influence
One primary topic that arose from the discussion was the importance of consolidating operators. Mugasa Adyeri stated, “We need regulations that will make your businesses flourish. We need Uganda to be an example of gaming in Africa. Other countries are coming to benchmark from us.” His vision for the industry is for the creation of a strong association among operators, reinforcing the notion that the voice of the group is heard louder than the voice of one. “United we stand; when you speak collectively, you are heard sooner than if you speak individually,” he further added.
The significance of a strong gaming sector for Uganda’s economy was another key point throughout the interaction. Mugasa Adyeri underlined the importance of the industry, asserting, “Gaming is capable of reducing the amount of borrowing this country can do. Gaming is holding serious responsibility to Uganda’s economy.” This perspective highlights the ability of gaming to act as a steady source of revenue, therefore playing a constructive role in national affairs and economic development.
The Chair concluded the session by advocating regulatory fairness, in the hope of striking a balance between enforcement and assistance. “We want the fines we levy to be deterrent, not punitive. When you do ABC, there is a penalty for the operator.” His pragmatic approach was endorsed by stakeholders present, as it provides a regulatory framework that promotes business and innovation rather than halting growth.
The engagement between the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) and operators serves as a testament to the power of transparent communication and collaborative policymaking. This proactive approach is expected to lead to a more robust regulatory framework that elevates industry standards in Uganda and positions the country as one of the leading countries in progressive regulations across Africa.
