Uganda Introduces New Gaming Regulations
Uganda’s National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has taken a significant step towards creating a safe and fair gaming environment. The board has introduced the Responsible Gaming Directives 2025, which aim to promote responsible play and reduce the risks associated with gambling activities. These directives are designed to apply to all forms of gaming and betting, including both land-based and online platforms.
What the Directives Entail
The directives comprise a comprehensive seven-page document that outlines the legal obligations for all gaming operators. A concise one-page public notice also highlights essential rules and protective measures for both players and operators. The directives were signed on October 16, 2025, and officially made public on November 14, 2025. Every licensee is required to maintain a Responsible Gaming Policy that commits to responsible gaming, player protection, and harm minimization.
Employee Training and Responsible Gaming Practices
Operators are now required to ensure that all employees receive training on responsible gaming, recognizing problem gambling, and understanding available support resources. The directives state that every licensee must provide annual training on responsible gaming for all employees, including new hires. This training is crucial in promoting a safe and responsible gaming environment.
Player Protections
The directives outline several player protections aimed at promoting responsible gambling. These protections include options for self-exclusion, as well as implementing deposit and time limits to help players manage their gambling activities more effectively. Licensees are required to enforce self-exclusion, refuse service to excluded persons, and prevent marketing materials from reaching excluded persons. They must also remove excluded persons from marketing databases, close their accounts, and refund balances.
Additional Guidelines for Operators
The directives establish clear eligibility standards for employees, disqualifying underage individuals, politically exposed persons, restricted persons, and anyone with a criminal record from participation in the gaming industry. Operators are required to make responsible gaming information readily available, including displaying helplines, treatment resources, and game rules. Promotions or credits that incentivize excessive gambling are strictly forbidden, and online operators must prominently display essential licensing information, contact details, age warnings, and a clear message stating that betting can be addictive and psychologically harmful.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The directives outline consequences for licensees who fail to comply with the guidelines. These consequences include fines, surcharges, and the potential suspension or revocation of licenses. Any licensee who fails to comply with the directives commits a breach of license conditions and may face an express fine for each breach. Continued non-payment may result in suspension or revocation of the licensee’s license.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Responsible Gaming Directives 2025 marks a significant step towards creating a safe and responsible gaming environment in Uganda. The directives provide a comprehensive framework for promoting responsible gaming, protecting players, and preventing problem gambling. By ensuring that all employees are trained on responsible gaming practices and that players have access to protective measures, the directives aim to minimize the risks associated with gambling activities. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize responsible gaming and player protection to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all players.
