NLGRB Launches 2026 Gaming and Lottery License Renewal Process with Heightened Oversight

On October 3, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) officially opened the application period for 2026 gaming and lottery license renewals, signaling a year of increased regulatory scrutiny for operators, particularly those seeking to introduce new games or casinos. Operators have until October 31, 2025, to submit their applications via the e-licensing platform.

This year, the Board has made it clear that compliance expectations are higher than ever. Under the updated regulations, which build upon the requirements outlined in Uganda’s Lotteries and Gaming Act of 2016, the NLGRB emphasized the need for strict adherence to rules from the outset. “Operators introducing new games must submit game rules, while casinos have additional obligations, including registration as accountable persons with the Financial Intelligence Authority and submission of annual Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) compliance reports,” the board stated in its official notice. The regulator also underscored the seriousness of enforcement, warning, “Only complete applications will be evaluated. False documentation will lead to automatic disqualification and prosecution.”

To renew their licenses, operators are required to provide a comprehensive set of documents. These include tax clearance certificates, good conduct certificates for directors and shareholders, and audited financial statements. Annual returns, business plans for 2026, and details of corporate social responsibility initiatives and employee training programs must also be submitted. Additionally, certification from the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) is mandatory, confirming that operators’ data collection and processing systems comply with national IT and security standards. Operators must also submit certificates of incorporation, memoranda and articles of association, franchise agreements, and lists of declared premises. Any electronic gaming machines (EGMs) must be connected to the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS) to allow the regulator to monitor compliance effectively.

Key employees are subject to careful scrutiny, requiring good conduct certificates, employment contracts, academic qualifications—such as CPA certification for CFOs—and statements of competence, along with proof of relevant professional experience. Machine and software providers must deliver authorization letters, detailed machine lists, software versions, user manuals, certification documents, and data protection/privacy policies to ensure their systems meet regulatory standards.

Pre-licensing inspections are mandated for all licensed premises. These inspections will confirm that locations meet specific criteria, including a minimum size of 30 square meters, secure facilities, and measures to prevent minors from accessing gambling areas. Premises must be easily accessible, prominently display licenses and responsible gaming messages, and be situated at least 100 meters from schools, markets, and places of worship.

The NLGRB has emphasized that all applications will be processed within 60 days and has encouraged operators to submit their paperwork as early as possible. By enforcing stringent rules and increasing scrutiny for new games and casinos, the regulator aims to safeguard players, ensure transparency, and maintain the integrity of Uganda’s gaming sector.

By fLEXI tEAM