NLGRB Highlights Link Between Problem Gambling and Mental Health at National Awareness Camp
The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) participated in the 4th Annual National Mental Health Awareness Camp, held in the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health, alongside other key stakeholders.
The two-day event brought together legislators, health professionals, regulators, civil society actors, and members of the public with the aim of advancing national dialogue on mental health, reducing social stigma, and strengthening multi-sector collaboration.
By participating in this forum, the NLGRB highlighted the direct link between problem gambling and mental wellbeing. The NLGRB emphasized that gambling-related harm quietly affects individuals, families, and communities through addiction, financial distress, and social strain.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Alicia Atukunda, NLGRB’s Senior Manager of Licensing and Responsible Gaming, explained that the Board’s Responsible Gaming program actively promotes public education, informed decision-making, consumer protection, and safer gaming practices. She emphasized that collaboration with health workers, policymakers, operators, and communities is essential to prevent problem gambling and support those at risk.
Established under the Lotteries and Gaming Act No. 7 of 2016, the NLGRB is mandated to protect the public from the adverse social and financial effects of gaming and betting. To advance this public health framework, the Board has established direct working partnerships with regional healthcare providers, including Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital and Itojo Hospital.
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Through their Mental Health Units to facilitate early intervention, voluntary counseling, and specialized support for individuals affected by gaming-related harm. This is supported by the Ministry of Health’s Mental Health and Control of Substance Abuse Division and forms part of a coordinated public health response that local communities can champion.
Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, the Speaker of Parliament, speaking at the closing of the two-day camp, pledged continued support for mental health advocacy. He emphasized the necessity of keeping mental health firmly on the national agenda.
The speaker underscored the shared duty across Parliament, regulators, health workers, families, and communities to create supportive environments where individuals can seek help without stigma.
This engagement underscores the regulatory body’s commitment to addressing problem gambling not merely as a compliance issue but as a critical public health and behavioral health priority.
