Uganda’s National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) appointed a new board of leadership. The ceremony took place on 23 July 2025, in Kampala and marked an integral moment for Uganda’s regulator. Minister of Finance Matia Kasaija oversaw the handover and commended the outgoing board for its efforts in revitalising the sector.
Recognising the outgoing board’s achievements
Minister Kasaija noted the successes of the outgoing board, which Chairman Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri led. He attributed to them the saving of a “once chaotic sector” and its transformation into “a modern, transparent, and credible regulatory body.” The Minister noted that reforms implemented by the outgoing leadership had established a solid foundation for future growth.
In his speech, Minister Kasaija called the new board appointment “both a recognition of individual competencies and a collective strategic investment in Uganda’s broader development and revenue mobilisation goals.” This change highlights the government’s commitment to enhancing regulatory oversight and increasing the iGaming sector’s contribution to national development.
A legacy of innovation and growth
Chairman Emeritus Adyeri reflected on the institutional gains achieved under his leadership. He chronicled several milestones under their belt:
- Revenue grew six times, from UGX 50.6 billion ($14.2 million) in FY2019/20 to UGX 323 billion by June 2025.
- The National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS) allows for real-time monitoring of operators.
- Formalisation of illicit operators, broadening the tax base and facilitating compliance.
- Successful onboarding of Uganda’s .
- Sustaining operational resilience amidst government rationalisation activities under RAPEX.
Adyeri was optimistic about the future, saying, “I carry with me… great optimism,” and expressing confidence in the ongoing strength and ability of the NLGRB to regulate effectively.
An experienced and diverse new board
Appointed to a three-year term, the new board introduces a richness of multi-sectoral experience that will be called upon to steer the dynamic gaming environment. Chaired by Chairman Kenneth Kitariko, an established name in capital markets regulation, the team also comprises:
- Ms. Esther Akullo: an expert in planning and public sector accountability. Mr. William Blick: has experience in international sports governance and stakeholder management.
- ACP Odong Mark Paul: who has specialised in compliance, enforcement, and public safety.
- Ms. Faridah Bahemuka: carrying experience in Legal, tax policy, and the private sector.
This diverse composition aims to support innovative solutions, enhance regulatory frameworks, and promote responsible gambling habits throughout Uganda.
Commitment to Uganda’s stability
CEO Denis Mudene Ngabirano reaffirmed the board’s commitment to stability, offering the Secretariat’s “full technical cooperation” and “unwavering support” to the new board. He saluted the outgoing leadership for their achievement of “digital transformation, enforcement efficiency, and vote status” that have substantially enhanced the operations of the sector.
Chairman Kenneth Kitariko emphasised the importance of partnership and open communication. He continued, “I’m here to listen, to guide, and to keep us on track, regulating with integrity, increasing our fiscal contribution, and protecting Ugandans.”
Kitariko also commended CEO Mudene Ngabirano’s instrumental leadership, highlighting the need for effective leadership in realising the board’s agenda. He also recognised the difficulties ahead. Kitariko said the new board would need “courage, focus, and an unwavering dedication to strategy execution” to bring regulations into line with national priorities and establish stakeholders’ trust.
