Burundi appoints new directors to oversee National Lottery operations

On December 5, 2024, significant leadership appointments were made at the National Lottery of Burundi (LONA). President Evariste Ndayishimiye issued Decree No. 100/419, appointing new officials to key positions within the organization. The changes include Fabrice Niragira as the new Director General, Aloys Baricako as the Administrative and Financial Director, and Félicien Ndoricimpa as the Commercial Director.

These appointments follow a series of laws and decrees that define the governance of public establishments in Burundi, emphasizing the distinction between political and technical functions in public administration. The decree repeals previous provisions and tasks the Ministry of Commerce, Transport, Industry, and Tourism with overseeing its implementation.

LONA, established in August 2021, is responsible for regulating all legal gambling activities in Burundi. Its operations include managing the national lottery, licensing sports betting platforms and running the Lydia Ludique Burundi casino in Bujumbura. The organization also works to combat illegal gambling and enhance regulatory oversight in the sector.