Uganda regulator nabs 157 machines in crackdown on illegal gambling

Ansh Pandey January 29, 2025
Uganda regulator nabs 157 machines in crackdown on illegal gambling

The Uganda National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) recently confiscated over 157 unauthorised gaming machines as the authorities ramp its efforts to tackle illegal gambling and continues targeted operation in Western Uganda.

This operation was part of a broader strategy by the NLGRB to enforce strict adherence to gaming regulations. A spokesperson from the Board emphasised that ensuring effective enforcement is essential for providing a level playing field for operators. 

“We cannot talk about a fair and transparent gaming sector without emphasising enforcement,” the spokesperson stated, underscoring the need for decisive action against illegal gaming practices that undermine the integrity of the industry.

The crackdown in Western Uganda is the latest in a series of operations aimed at curbing unlicensed gaming activities. 

In May 2024, the NLGRB carried out a similar operation in Kampala, which resulted in the confiscation of 198 illegal slot machines and 12 boxes of spare parts. Similarly, in late 2023, the Board conducted a significant raid in Eastern Uganda, seizing more than 120 unauthorised gaming devices. 

Uganda gaming market skyrockets

As part of its ongoing efforts, the NLGRB is in the process of dismantling and destroying the confiscated illegal equipment. This initiative is designed to protect citizens from substandard, unlicensed gaming machines, which pose risks to both players and the industry as a whole.

The Board has also reassured the public that these measures will help to create a more regulated and accountable gaming sector, fostering long-term sustainability in the industry.

Uganda’s gambling and gaming sector has seen substantial growth in recent years. In the financial year 2022/23, the industry generated over UGX 151 billion (€39 million), marking a sharp increase from UGX 17.4 billion (€105 million) in the 2015/16 period. 

This surge is largely attributed to the rise of online gambling, which now accounts for 93 percent of total gambling activities in Uganda. On average, Ugandans stake UGX 20 billion per day, translating to UGX 2.8 trillion between 1 July 2024 and 30 November 2024. The majority of this betting takes place in the Kampala Metropolitan area, which hosts 60 percent of all gambling activities in the country.

Gambling addiction takes a toll

However, the rapid growth of the sector has also raised concerns. The proliferation of online gambling platforms has given rise to illegal and unregulated sites, complicating the work of enforcement agencies. The NLGRB has responded by shutting down several illegal websites and seizing thousands of unlicensed gaming devices.

Additionally, there are increasing worries about the impact of gambling on Uganda’s youth. Studies suggest that 57 percent of young Ugandans aged 17-35 have engaged in gambling activities, often influenced by excessive screen time and exposure to online gaming. 

This trend has led to concerns about gambling addiction and its social and economic consequences, prompting calls for greater regulation and education about responsible gambling.

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