Gambling: Striking a balance between fun and responsibility

The word "gambling" is commonly used among sports lovers and media practitioners, especially when discussing tactics for different sports coaches.

For instance, a coach might need to "gamble" with their team setup or formation to win a game, though this is always risky, as any gamble involves uncertainty.

Gambling is the act of wagering something despite an uncertain outcome. In essence, people place an item of value at risk (money, house, car, etc.) in an attempt to gain something of even greater value. Most gambling is centered around events of interest, such as the Uganda Premier League, Uganda Cranes matches, cricket, or motor racing. Many sports enthusiasts particularly enjoy betting on European leagues due to their popularity and allure.

Sometimes, gambling serves as a social activity, a friendly gesture for bonding with others. Some people view gambling as harmless social fun, while others place high expectations on winning big, which can lead to problems. It is crucial that all responsible parties, including betting companies, lotteries and gaming regulators, and sports associations, help people understand the difference between responsible and problem gambling.

We live in an age where it is incredibly easy to place a bet, whether through legal online sportsbooks, smartphones, or other gambling platforms. Last week, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) held a one-day stakeholder engagement with the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kololo to discuss the importance of responsible gaming and raise awareness about problem gambling. This was a positive step toward helping people gamble responsibly and changing perceptions of the industry, particularly for those who do not understand other aspects of the Uganda gaming industry, as highlighted by Denis Ngabirano, CEO of NLGRB.

However, more needs to be done in this regard. Despite the industry's exponential growth (a revenue increase from sh500b in 2021-2022 to sh4.3 trillion in 2023-2024), there are still concerns about the sector causing harm in the form of addiction, idleness, and increased crime. Statistics show that since 2015, approximately one in four adults has engaged in some form of gambling. While we cannot eliminate gaming, it is critical to implement strategies that protect people from harming themselves.