Uganda’s Gaming Regulator Welcomes New Board of Directors

A Defining Moment for the Regulator

Uganda’s National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has officially appointed its new Board of Directors. The handover ceremony took place on July 23, 2025, in Kampala and was presided over by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, marking a critical transition in the country’s gaming oversight framework.

Recognizing the Achievements of the Outgoing Board

Minister Kasaija commended the leadership of outgoing Chairman Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri and his board for transforming what was once “a chaotic sector” into “a modern, transparent, and trustworthy regulatory institution.” He emphasized that their reforms laid a solid foundation for future progress.

The Minister added that the new board’s appointment reflects “not only recognition of individual merit but a strategic investment in Uganda’s broader development and fiscal mobilization goals.”

A Legacy of Innovation and Growth

In his farewell address, Chairman Adyeri reflected on key institutional achievements during his term:

• Sixfold revenue growth: From UGX 50.6 billion ($14.2 million) in FY 2019/20 to UGX 323 billion by June 2025;
• Launch of NCEMS: A real-time National Central Electronic Monitoring System for operator oversight;
• Formalization of illegal operators: Bringing unlicensed entities into compliance to broaden the tax base;
• Appointment of the National Lottery Operator: Ithuba Uganda Limited officially licensed;
• Operational resilience: Sustained service through the RAPEX government integration project.

He expressed optimism for the future, stating, “I remain optimistic that NLGRB will continue to exercise sound regulatory oversight.”

A Diverse and Experienced New Board

The new three-year board term brings together professionals with expertise across several critical sectors. Leading the board is Chairman Kenneth Kitariko, a respected authority in capital markets regulation. Other board members include:

• Ms. Esther Akullo – Specialist in planning and public sector accountability
• William Blick – Expert in international sports governance and stakeholder engagement
• ACP Odong Mark Paul – Experienced in law enforcement, compliance, and public safety
• Ms. Faridah Bahemuka – Legal and tax policy expert with a private sector background

This diverse team is tasked with advancing innovation, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and promoting responsible gambling practices nationwide.

Institutional Support and National Priorities

NLGRB CEO Denis Mudene Ngabirano reiterated the organization’s commitment to stability and pledged “full technical support” to the new board. He applauded the outgoing board for its achievements in digital transformation, enforcement capacity, and improved governance, which have significantly enhanced operational efficiency.