Govt eyes Sh300 billion revenue as Uganda National Lottery is launched

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Government has hailed Uganda National Lottery as a constructive and responsible means of giving back to the community, as it benefits citizens, across all social classes.

Prime Minister of Uganda Robinah Nabbanja, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, Security Minister Jim Muhwezi together with Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa have all urged Ugandans to recognize the significance of the lottery initiative and lend their full support.

“The Uganda National Lottery represents a constructive and responsible way of giving back to our communities. It is crucial that we all appreciate this effort and extend our full support and endorsement to ensure its success,” said chief guest Tayebwa July 26.

He joined industry leaders, business magnates, and key government officials from across Africa who gathered to celebrate alongside ITHUBA Uganda, the newly appointed operator of the national lottery.

The high-profile offical launch event at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Friday, follows the Uganda National Lottery’s ticket sales launch on June 1, 2024.

Since ticket sales began, over 3,000 winners have already claimed their prizes. Charmaine Mabuza, CEO of ITHUBA, highlighted this achievement, stating, “We are thrilled to see over 3,000 winners since our launch and are eager to share more stories of how these winnings are transforming lives.”

He said the celebration underscores ITHUBA Uganda’s commitment to creating positive change through the Uganda National Lottery.

The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), an integral partner in the success of the event, was also represented by Board Chairman, Aloysius Mugasa Adyeri, who was joined by fellow board members of the board and CEO, Dennis Mudene.

PM Nabbanja expressed the government’s optimism about the benefits of the Uganda National Lottery for all citizens, across all social classes.

She commended the collaborative efforts, saying “I congratulate all those who contributed to this project, including the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, the NLGRB, as well as the ITHUBA Uganda team.

“I am optimistic that the Uganda National Lottery is going to significantly benefit our country, offering opportunities to the citizenry across all social classes. I am confident that under ITHUBA, we will see growth and integrity in Lottery operations,” she said.

By generating significant revenue, 30% of which is rendered to the Ugandan government, the Uganda National Lottery will support key sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sports, ensuring continuous investment in Uganda’s sustained development.

The official launch of the Uganda National Lottery marks a pivotal opportunity for individual Ugandans and the nation as a whole,officials said.

Finance Minister Matia Kasaija revealed that the NLGRB enabled the government to collect taxes amounting to 193 billion Shillings from gaming, against a target of 160 billion Shillings for the fiscal year 2024. With the launch of the Uganda National Lottery, the government believes that this figure could grow to 300 billion Shillings.

“We envision the Uganda National Lottery as a key contributor to our nation’s development goals, supporting vital sectors. I have directed that this financial year’s proceeds are earmarked for the development of sports infrastructure as Uganda prepares for AFCON 2027,” Hon. Kasaija noted.

Chairman of ITHUBA Uganda, Bob Kabonero, highlighted the commitment to international excellence and the unique adaptation of the National Lottery to Uganda. He emphasized the importance of transparency and the Uganda National Lottery’s role in fostering meaningful change and transformation in the country.

“We have endeavored to uphold international best practices to ensure our operations are transparent and promote significant benefits that contribute to Uganda’s development and transformation,” Kabonero said.

Kabonero also noted that the National Lottery is designed to be affordable and accessible, with offices and agents in various parts of Uganda as well as online platforms making it easy for everyone to participate.

Denis Mudene Ngabirano, CEO of the NLGRB, was flanked by his team at the event. According to him, responsible gaming has been upheld by the Uganda National Lottery, ensuring that all practices align with ethical standards and protect participants.

“Under our stewardship, the Uganda National Lottery is committed to upholding responsible gaming practices. We ensure that our operations not only provide entertainment but also adhere to the highest ethical standards. Our focus is on safeguarding participants and promoting a safe, fair, and responsible gaming environment,” Ngabirano noted.

The Uganda National Lottery, features popular games such as LOTTO, POWERBALL, DAILY LOTTO, SPIN 4 CASH and SPORTSTAKE 10, with estimated jackpots of over UGX 2.8 billion up for the win.

“With an initial investment of $14 million, ITHUBA Uganda aims to provide a platform that not only offers the chance to change individual lives but also promises to significantly bolster national revenue and drive economic growth,” officials said.