Uganda's traders learn responsible gaming to protect mental health and livelihoods
The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has teamed up with mental health experts to promote safer gaming habits among traders. A recent session at Kitooro Market focused on teaching responsible gaming practices, including how to spot early warning signs of harmful behaviour. The initiative aims to ensure that gaming stays a form of entertainment without threatening financial stability or personal well-being.
The workshop brought together traders and a mental health specialist from Butabika Hospital. Attendees learned how to set firm limits on time and money spent on games, preventing it from disrupting work, family life, or business. Experts also shared strategies for managing stress and coping with games-related pressures, stressing the need for early intervention when problems arise.
Susan Hope, Senior Responsible Gaming Officer, warned that games should never come at the cost of livelihoods, mental health, or relationships. The Board reinforced that responsible gaming protects both players and the industry's reputation.
This effort builds on years of growing awareness in Uganda. Since 2020, public education campaigns and stricter regulations—like the 2019 Lotteries and Gaming Act—have pushed for safer practices. Surveys show a steady rise in positive attitudes toward responsible gambling, climbing from 35% in 2021 to 52% in 2025. Measures such as age checks and self-exclusion programmes have also played a key role in reducing risks.
The collaboration between the NLGRB and mental health professionals highlights the importance of keeping games safe and controlled. By encouraging informed participation, the Board aims to maintain a balanced industry where entertainment does not turn into harm. The ongoing campaigns and regulations continue to shape a more responsible gaming culture across Uganda.
