National Lottery of Burundi launches official website to modernize services and enhance transparency

The National Lottery of Burundi (LONA) has launched its official website, marking a significant step towards modernizing its services and providing greater access to information for players and the general public. The new platform features several key sections, including Accueil (Home), La LONA (About LONA), Réglementation (Regulations), Nos services (Our Services), Publication (Publications), and Contact.

This digital initiative is part of LONA's broader strategy to enhance the accessibility and convenience of its offerings. Through the website, users can explore the various games of chance provided by LONA, check draw results, and access detailed information on rules and procedures. Additionally, the site offers practical features such as online ticket purchasing, access to previous winning numbers, and the option to sign up for email or SMS notifications about draw results and special promotions.

LONA's website launch coincides with broader efforts to strengthen the regulatory framework governing gambling activities in Burundi. In June 2024, during a Council of Ministers meeting, the Minister of Trade, Industry, Transport, and Tourism introduced a draft decree aimed at regulating gambling, lotteries, and betting in the country. This move is seen as a crucial step towards establishing a structured and transparent regulatory environment.

Historically, LONA was the sole organizer of gambling activities in Burundi until 2000, primarily through scratch cards. Today, it operates alongside 15 licensed partners holding concession contracts for gambling and continues to receive interest from other businesses looking to enter the sector. LONA now serves both as an operator and regulator, overseeing bookmakers and betting operators to ensure compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape.

The government has also implemented a Strategy for the Control and Regulation of Gambling in 2023, aimed at creating a legal framework that supports the socio-economic development of the nation through the gambling sector.

In addition to launching its website, LONA remains committed to organizing traditional events and draws throughout the country. However, the online platform is expected to significantly broaden its reach and provide a more convenient and transparent experience for users.

As part of the ongoing transformation of Burundi's gambling industry, LONA has also embraced N-Soft's Gambling Management System (GMS). This advanced technology is designed to revolutionize revenue mobilization and enhance transparency within the betting sector. LONA recently completed training on the configuration, operation, and maintenance of the GMS system, conducted by the B&N Partners consortium in collaboration with N-Soft.

The GMS system will empower LONA to oversee the operations of eight existing gambling providers within the country, with the project being rolled out in two phases. Initially, it will focus on lotteries, online platforms, sports betting, and horse racing, followed by an expansion into casino operations, including slot machines. This comprehensive approach aims to address long-standing issues related to unreported and untaxed revenue in the industry.

The collaboration between N-Soft, the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry of Commerce in Burundi reflects a unified effort to ensure that the gambling sector contributes positively to the nation's economy. The launch of the LONA website is a key element in this broader initiative, symbolizing a new era of transparency and modernization in Burundi's gambling industry.