Gamcare Uganda advocates for safe and responsible gambling
As the leader of an initiative dedicated to preventing gambling harm, combating underage gambling, and providing free, non-judgmental support to affected individuals, Joshua Nyakairu, Founder and Team Lead at Gamcare Uganda, often faces one recurring question: why not push for the complete abolition of gambling?
His response is straightforward. “The reality is far more complex than it appears,” he said, explaining that gambling in Uganda has deep social and economic roots that cannot simply be erased.
In 2024/2025, government revenue from gambling reached UGX 323 billion ($93 million), while Ugandans wagered over UGX 8 trillion ($2.3 billion), and the figure continues to grow. With 77% of Uganda’s population under 25 and more than 10.7 million young adults unemployed or out of school, gambling has become a tempting yet risky escape.
The scale of gambling participation
Consider the boda boda industry, Uganda’s second-largest employer with 1.2 million riders. Over 80% of them gamble daily or weekly. The trend is not limited to riders. Street vendors, market traders, and even office workers participate regularly.
This widespread participation shows that gambling is now a part of everyday life for many Ugandans. However, the trend in learning institutions is particularly concerning, with underage gambling rising sharply.
Education as the first line of defence
Nyakairu believes the best way forward is not prohibition but education. “We should equip our people with the knowledge and tools to take control and gamble more safely and responsibly,” he said.
He emphasises that informed choices lead to safer habits. “When people are equipped with the right information, they make better choices and protect themselves from harm. Uganda’s future depends on how we guide our young population today.”
Promoting responsibility through action
Nyakairu insists that players can enjoy gambling responsibly if they apply knowledge, maintain control, and exercise balance. The Gamcare Uganda organisation runs several nationwide programs designed to raise awareness and promote safer gambling habits.
These include the Play Safe, Be Responsible campaigns in communities, the Annual Responsible Gambling Awareness Week Uganda held every November, and school-based advocacy programs aimed at curbing underage gambling.
A balanced and inclusive approach
“Our position is clear,” Nyakairu said. “Gamcare Initiative Uganda is neither for nor against legalised gambling. Our mission is to ensure that those who choose to gamble can do so responsibly, without harm to themselves, their families, or their communities, and that those who have problems with gambling get the support they need.”
Building a culture of responsibility
Nyakairu concludes that the goal is not to end gambling but to make it safer. He calls on stakeholders across the country to collaborate in shaping a responsible gaming culture.
“I invite regulators, operators, educators, and community leaders to join us in building a culture of responsibility that safeguards lives while sustaining the industry. Gambling is here to stay.”
In Alicia Atukunda, the Senior Manager for Licensing and Responsible Gaming for the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) words, operators in Uganda should treat compliance as a strategic investment rather than a cost or regulatory burden. Viewing it as more than a tick-box exercise ensures the long-term integrity and sustainability of their businesses. Strong compliance builds public trust, attracts investors, and strengthens the credibility of the entire gaming industry.
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