The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) has announced the abrupt cessation of operations by Ithuba Uganda Limited, the company that has been running Uganda’s National Lottery, bringing an unexpected end to its activities in the country.
In a public notice issued on July 2, 2026, the regulator confirmed that Ithuba Uganda officially stopped operating as the National Lottery operator on July 1, 2026.
The announcement marks a significant development in Uganda’s gaming industry, with thousands of lottery players now left wondering what becomes of their winnings, balances, and ongoing games.
The NLGRB said it has taken over the process of managing the operator’s exit in accordance with the Lotteries and Gaming Act and the terms of Ithuba’s licence and concession agreement.
While the regulator did not disclose the reasons behind Ithuba’s exit, it assured the public that it is overseeing the winding-up process to ensure all legal obligations are fulfilled.
Players with pending winnings or account balances have been directed to contact Ithuba Uganda through its official communication channels to lodge their claims. The regulator says it will continue monitoring the settlement of all valid claims and ensure affected customers receive what they are owed.
“The Board will continue to monitor compliance and the settlement of valid claims and obligations,” the notice states.
The sudden announcement is expected to trigger questions about the future of Uganda’s National Lottery, including whether government intends to appoint a new operator or restructure the lottery system altogether.
Ithuba Uganda has been the licensed operator responsible for running the National Lottery under the supervision of the NLGRB. Its exit leaves a vacuum in one of Uganda’s most closely regulated gaming segments.
For now, the regulator has promised to issue further public guidance as the transition unfolds, while players are urged to remain vigilant and use only Ithuba’s official channels when following up on outstanding claims.
The development comes at a time when Uganda’s gaming sector has witnessed increased regulatory oversight, with authorities intensifying efforts to enforce compliance and strengthen accountability across betting and lottery operators.
