National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board raises alarm over betting ads

The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has raised concerns over the uncontrolled advertising and promotion of betting odds by various media outlets, which has led to an increase in gambling-related mental health issues. 

Many individuals suffer from mental disorders after losing significant amounts of money, driven by misleading advertisements that overhype betting chances.

In response, the board is partnering with media stakeholders to launch a sensitisation campaign aimed at encouraging people to view sports betting as a form of leisure rather than an investment.

This was discussed during a one-day stakeholders' engagement between the board and the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kololo. Richard Kavuma Muteesasira, Senior Manager in charge of Compliance at NLGRB, condemned the deceptive advertisements broadcast on radio, printed in newspapers, and posted on social media platforms, which lure people into spending large sums of money on betting odds, falsely guaranteeing them a "sure win."

"These advertisements assure people that the odds are guaranteed, yet it is a game of chance," Kavuma explained. He emphasized the need for all betting adverts to be regulated in accordance with the law before being aired, with specific attention given to preventing minors from exposure to such ads.

Kavuma also highlighted the importance of responsible gaming, urging stakeholders to adhere to regulations, including licensing requirements for all participants, including intermediaries.

Denis Ngabirano, CEO of NLGRB, noted the growth in Uganda's gaming industry, citing a revenue increase from sh500b in 2021-22 to sh4.3 trillion in 2023-24, with sh103b in revenue contributed to the government in the last financial year. For the current year, the board is targeting a revenue turnover of UGX 250 billion. "The board is committed to fostering a transparent and beneficial gaming industry for all Ugandans," Ngabirano said, adding that the challenge lies in ensuring the public benefits from this growing sector.

Ivan Musenero, a mental health expert from Butabika Hospital, warned that gambling addiction can lead to severe mental disorders and even suicide, noting that individuals who pass through five stages of addiction may face a chronic, relapsing condition.

USPA President Al Sayed Lubega acknowledged the media's role in amplifying betting culture and urged journalists to be more responsible in their portrayal of betting. Other stakeholders present, including FUFA's legal officer Denis Lukambi, Human Rights Network Executive Director Robert Ssempala, sports lawyer Phillip Munaabi, and MP Godfrey Kayemba Solo, discussed the need for stricter regulation of betting advertisements.

The Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, was represented by Joseph Oluga, General Secretary of the National Council of Sports (NCS).