For any gambling/gaming house to set up a firm, they will have to part with sh200m as security bond with the Government to pay their clients in case of failure on their part to meet their obligations, the National Lotteries Board (NLB) has decreed.
“Most of these sports betting firms are owned by foreigners. After making money, they close and run away without paying their clients. We are calling on anyone who wins and feels cheated to come and get help from us. If we establish that he/she genuinely won, we shall pay,” said Manzi Tumubweinee, the chairman of National Lotteries Board.
Tumubweinee also cited other activities prohibited from operating without licenses as gaming and popular pool spots.
“We have almost 50 gaming firms but only 32 are licensed. If any person enters a firm without a license, report that firm to Police because it is operating illegally,” he said.
According to the guidelines from January 1, 2014: “No person shall promote gaming and pool within Uganda unless he/she is the holder of a promoters license authorizing him or her so to act, which is for the time being in force, and if any person acts as a promoter in contravention of this subsection, he or she commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding ten thousand shillings or she commits an offence and is liable to a fine not exceeding ten thousand shillings or to a term of imprisonment not exceeding one year or both.”
The new regulations also require operators of casinos and gaming houses to operate less than 200 metres from churches, markets, mosques and government offices. They are not allowed to sell alcoholic drinks in the premises.
NBL wants betting companies located on the street, shops and in arcades to close such that they do not lure the public into their activities.
“We are planning to do a lot of enforcement. We are going to close all illegal firms so that we limit underage gambling, crimes and laziness. Very soon for anyone to bet, you will be required to show a betting permit,” said Jonathan Kyeyune, the officer in charge of NBL Operations.
By Carol Kasujja, The New Vision
