With wagers to hit USh14.1 trillion in the 2025/26 financial year, it marks a growth of nearly double that of the USh8.3 trillion in 2024/25. What does this mean for the future of gambling in Uganda?
Uganda’s betting industry is expected to hit unprecedented levels, with more than USh14.1 trillion staked in the 2025/2026 financial year. This is all thanks to the government's new centralised monitoring system, marking a dramatic rise in gambling activity.
The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) introduced the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS), which ensures that all bets and payouts pass through a central gateway.
Since its introduction, betting companies have reported stakes of USh2.4 trillion in 2022/2023. In 2023/24, after the start of the NCEMS, this number jumped to USh4.3 trillion. That number rose again to USh8.3 trillion in 2024/2025. And for 2025/26, we’re expecting the number will reach USh14.1 trillion.
This new system has also boosted tax compliance, and all operators are required to process any wagers and payouts via the centralised gateway licensed by the Bank of Uganda. This allows for real-time monitoring of transactions.
All changes are met with some form of pushback, which is evident when the centralised gateway was first proposed. The industry showed concern regarding the developments. The Uganda Betting and Gaming Alliance, under the leadership of Dr Innocent Nahabwe, warned that a rapid rollout could hurt approved casino operators and limit cash-based transactions. They rooted for a phased approach that would allow the industry and people to adapt.
Despite the fears, the governments’ gamble paid off with the system increasing transparency, enhancing compliance with operators meeting tax obligations and a boost of public confidence since activity can now be tracked more effectively.
The former NLGRB chairperson, Aloysius Mugasa Adyeeri, has reiterated that compliance is not a burden but rather the foundation of what is considered a credible industry. With stronger oversight, the vulnerable are protected, and revenue is increased. It’s a win on all fronts.
The betting industry in Uganda has led to the creation of 150,000 jobs, especially among young people. With betting shops and casinos becoming fixtures within towns and cities, they are actively contributing to the economy.
There are also several questions still regarding how the rapid growth affects responsible gambling. As trillions are being staked, the call is for regulators to balance revenue generation with measures that actively protect against and prevent financial and addiction harms.
While the centralised system provides tools for oversight, player education and enforcement remain critical.
At the end of the day, the new system means safer transactions, operator accountability, and fair payouts. With players being able to safely play, it’s an exciting time for all.
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