The gaming and betting industry in Uganda continues to grow, providing both entertainment and economic opportunities. Each year, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) issues licenses to operators, ensuring legal compliance and responsible practices within the sector.

For 2025, a new list of licensed companies has been released, detailing the operators permitted to run gaming, betting, and lottery services. This article provides a clear overview of these companies, their operations, and the types of licenses they hold.

The Regulatory Framework

Uganda’s gaming industry is governed by the Lotteries and Gaming Act, No. 7 of 2016.

This act empowers the NLGRB to regulate the industry, ensuring operators adhere to strict guidelines. Licensed operators must meet criteria including financial transparency, fair gaming practices, and measures to protect consumers.

By issuing licenses, the board aims to curb illegal gaming activities while fostering a fair and secure environment for players.

For 2025, licenses cover various categories such as general betting, casino operations, gaming machine operations, and gambling software development. Operators can run land-based, online, or hybrid (both online and offline) models, depending on their licensing agreements.

Highlights from the 2025 Licensed Companies List

Here is a summary of some key operators and the services they provide in Uganda:

General Betting Operators

1. A Better Place Limited
   • Licenses: General Betting Operating License, Casino Operating License
   • Mode of Operation: Land-based and online
   • Website: gsb.ug
2. ABA Ventures Ltd
   • Licenses: General Betting Operating License, Gambling Software License, Gaming Machine License
   • Mode of Operation: Online
   • Website: ababet.ug
3. Advanced Gaming Limited
   • License: General Betting Operating License
   • Mode of Operation: Online
   • Website: 1xbet.ug

Casino Operators

1. Arcadia Hospitality Limited
   • Licenses: Casino Operating License, General Betting Operating License
   • Mode of Operation: Online
   • Website: 22bet.ug
2. Arua Casino Limited
   • Licenses: Casino Operating License, Gaming Machine License
   • Mode of Operation: Land-based
   • Website: Not provided
3. Golden Tripod (U) Limited
   • Licenses: Casino Operating License, Gambling Software License
   • Mode of Operation: Land-based
   • Website: Not provided

Hybrid Operators (Land-based and Online)

1. Eldorado Company Limited
   • Licenses: General Betting Operating License, Gaming Machine License
   • Website: premierbet.ug
2. Enterprise Gaming (U) Limited
   • Licenses: General Betting Operating License, Gambling Software License, Gaming Machine License
   • Website: admiralbet.ug
3. Kings Investments (U) Limited
   • Licenses: General Betting Operating License, Gaming Machine License
   • Website: kingssportsbet.com

Gambling Software Developers

1. Convex Innovations Limited
   • License: Gambling Software Operating License
   • Mode of Operation: Online
   • Website: Not provided
2. Novogames (U) Limited
   • Licenses: Gambling Software License, Gaming Machine Technical License
   • Mode of Operation: Land-based and online
   • Website: novogames.ug
3. Mediasoft System D.O.O
   • License: Gambling Software Operating License
   • Mode of Operation: Online
   • Website: media-soft.info

Trends in Uganda’s Gaming Industry

Online Operations

One noticeable trend in the 2025 licensing list is the rise of online operators. Companies such as ABA Ventures, Advanced Gaming, and Arcadia Hospitality Limited focus heavily on online platforms, leveraging the increasing internet penetration in Uganda.

These platforms offer convenience and accessibility, allowing users to participate in betting and gaming from the comfort of their homes.

Hybrid Models

Many companies are embracing hybrid operations, combining land-based and online services. Examples include Eldorado Company Limited and Enterprise Gaming (U) Limited. This dual approach caters to a broader audience, meeting the needs of both traditional players and tech-savvy users.

Emphasis on Software Development

The gaming industry increasingly relies on robust software solutions. Licensed gambling software developers like Convex Innovations and Novogames play a crucial role in powering online platforms, ensuring secure and seamless user experiences.

The emphasis on software development highlights the industry’s shift towards technological sophistication.

The Importance of Licensing

Licensing serves as a benchmark for quality and integrity within the gaming industry. Players can trust licensed operators to provide fair games and safeguard their data. Additionally, licensed companies contribute to Uganda’s economy through taxes and job creation.

For operators, obtaining a license signifies credibility and compliance with regulatory standards. It also opens doors to partnerships and collaborations within the industry, fostering growth and innovation.

Conclusion

The release of the 2025 licensed companies list by the NLGRB underscores Uganda’s commitment to a well-regulated gaming industry. With a diverse range of operators offering services across various platforms, players can look forward to secure and enjoyable gaming experiences.

As the industry evolves, the focus on licensing, technological advancement, and responsible gaming practices will remain pivotal.

Whether you are a player seeking trusted operators or an investor exploring opportunities in Uganda’s gaming sector, the 2025 licensed companies list serves as a valuable resource.

By choosing licensed operators, you not only enjoy peace of mind but also contribute to the growth of a transparent and vibrant gaming ecosystem.

Source: National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB).