NLGRB requires operators to follow strict rules when they apply for licence renewals for 2026. New games and casinos will receive extra examination. Uganda – In 2025, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board, which is Uganda’s gambling board began to accept applications for 2026 license renewals. We have until October 31, 2025 to see our applications to the e-licensing platform. New games and casinos must meet tough regulatory standards. The Board wants operators to follow all rules in Uganda’s Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, from the beginning.

The Board published an official notice about stricter control for major operators: “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.” NLGRB will punish operators who break rules. “Only complete applications will be evaluated. False documentation will lead to automatic disqualification and prosecution,” the regulator stated.

Tough Requirements for 2026 Renewals

Operators who want to renew licences must provide important documents. These include tax clearance certificates, good conduct certificates for directors and shareholders, audited financial statements, annual returns, business plans for 2026 with corporate social responsibility initiatives and employee training plans. The National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) must certify operators’ data systems. This certification proves systems follow national IT and security standards.

Franchisees require the presentation of certificates of incorporation, memoranda and articles of association, franchise agreements, and lists of declared premises. Also, Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) have to report to the National Central Electronic Monitoring System (NCEMS). The regulator uses this system to monitor operations and check compliance.

Key Documentation Required from Gaming Operators

Important workers must give good conduct certificates, employment contracts, academic qualifications (CFOs need a CPA), statements of competence and proof of experience. Companies that supply machines and software must provide authorisation letters, machine lists, software versions, user manuals, certification documents and data protection/privacy policies. These documents prove operators’ systems satisfy regulatory requirements.

Licensed locations will get pre-licensing inspections. Requirements are for a space of at least 30m², secure facilities, which include measures to prevent minors’ entry, accessibility features, visible licenses and also info on responsible gaming. Also, it is required that premises located at 100 meters or more from schools, markets and worship places.

NLGRB will process applications within 60 days. The regulator wants operators to apply soon. Strict rules and careful checking of new games and casinos will protect players. These measures will create transparency and help Uganda’s gaming sector grow.