National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board e-Licensing System
The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), established under the Lotteries and Gaming Act No. 7 of 2016, is mandated to regulate lotteries, casinos, gaming, and betting activities in Uganda. To enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in licensing processes, the NLGRB has partnered with the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) to implement the e-Licensing System. This cutting-edge digital platform streamlines the application, processing, and issuance of licenses for gaming operators, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while promoting responsible gaming.
The e-Licensing System is hosted on a secure, user-friendly portal powered by NITA-U’s robust IT infrastructure. It is designed to simplify interactions between the NLGRB and gaming operators, reduce administrative bottlenecks, and foster a transparent and accountable gaming industry in Uganda.
Key Features of the e-Licensing System
The NLGRB e-Licensing System offers a range of features to support gaming operators and regulatory oversight:
Online Application Submission: Applicants can submit license applications for lotteries, casinos, gaming, and betting activities through the e-Licensing portal, eliminating the need for physical paperwork.
Real-Time Application Tracking: Monitor the status of your application in real time, from submission to approval, ensuring full transparency.
Secure Document Upload: Upload required documents, such as proof of incorporation, shareholder details, and gaming machine specifications, in a secure environment compliant with data protection standards.
Automated Compliance Checks: The system verifies applicant suitability and compliance with the Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, including age requirements and equipment standards.
Digital Payment Integration: Pay application and licensing fees seamlessly through integrated payment platforms, including mobile money and bank transfers, powered by NITA-U’s e-Government framework.
License Renewal and Updates: Existing licensees can renew licenses, update operator details, or report changes (e.g., temporary closures) directly on the platform.
Machines Register: A dedicated feature allows operators to register gaming and betting machines, ensuring all equipment meets regulatory standards.
Stakeholder Support: Access FAQs, user guides, and a helpdesk for technical assistance, with options to request callbacks or report issues.
Benefits of the e-Licensing System
The e-Licensing System transforms the licensing process by offering:
Efficiency: Reduces processing time for license applications, enabling faster market entry for compliant operators.
Transparency: Provides clear visibility into application progress and regulatory requirements, fostering trust among stakeholders.
Accessibility: Available 24/7, the online platform allows applicants to engage with the NLGRB from anywhere in Uganda or beyond.
Compliance: Ensures all operators adhere to the Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, protecting players and promoting responsible gaming.
Cost Savings: Minimizes travel and administrative costs associated with manual licensing processes.
Data Security: Leverages NITA-U’s secure IT infrastructure to protect sensitive applicant information.
How to Access the e-Licensing System
The e-Licensing System is accessible via the official NLGRB e-Licensing portal: https://licensing.lgrb.go.ug/
Steps to Apply for a License:
Register an Account: Create a user profile on the e-Licensing portal with your details and company information.
Select License Type: Specify the activity (e.g., lottery, casino, betting) and license type as per Section 41 of the Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016.
Complete the Application Form: Provide required details, including applicant age (for individuals), shareholder information (for companies), and supporting documents.
Upload Documents: Submit proof of incorporation, equipment specifications, and other prescribed documents in digital format.
Pay Fees: Use the integrated payment system to settle application fees via mobile money, bank transfer, or other approved methods.
Track Application: Monitor your application status and respond to any requests for additional information from the NLGRB.
Receive License: Upon approval, download your digital license or request a physical copy, valid for the period specified (typically January 1 to December 31 annually).
Note: Only registered companies are eligible to apply, and minors (persons under 25) are prohibited from engaging in gaming activities. Operators must verify player ages using national IDs.
Why the e-Licensing System Matters
The e-Licensing System aligns with Uganda’s vision of leveraging technology to drive regulatory excellence and economic growth. By digitizing the licensing process, the NLGRB and NITA-U are:
Promoting Responsible Gaming: Ensuring only compliant operators are licensed to protect players from underage and problem gambling.
Supporting National Development: Channeling lottery and gaming revenues to fund critical sectors like education, health, and infrastructure, as seen in partnerships like ITHUBA Uganda.
Enhancing Stakeholder Collaboration: Facilitating engagements with gaming operators, sports associations, and educational institutions to strengthen regulatory compliance and public awareness.
Resources and Support
User Guides: Download step-by-step guides on using the e-Licensing System from the NLGRB website https://www.lgrb.go.ug/
FAQs: Find answers to common questions about licensing requirements, fees, and compliance.
Helpdesk: Contact the NLGRB support team via the e-Licensing portal or email for technical assistance.
Stakeholder Updates: Stay informed about regulatory changes, such as the temporary closure of operators like Casino Golden City Limited or new responsible gaming initiatives.