Rwanda unveils 2024 Gambling Policy to promote responsible gambling and regulation

The Rwanda Development Board has introduced its 2024 Gambling Policy on November 23 to regulate the gambling sector, promote responsible practices, and protect vulnerable populations. This policy addresses the rapid growth of the gambling industry in Rwanda, which has led to regulatory challenges and social issues like addiction and financial instability among low-income groups. Concerns about unregulated cash transactions potentially facilitating money laundering have also risen. The proliferation of gambling facilities, coupled with widespread mobile technology, has exacerbated these problems, particularly for youth and vulnerable communities.

The policy aims to establish stringent oversight mechanisms to harness the economic potential of gambling while ensuring consumer protection. It emphasizes using gambling revenues for public health initiatives and social programs, contributing to Rwanda’s socio-economic development. Rwanda benchmarked its policy against regulatory frameworks from countries like Kenya, Tanzania, the UK, and Singapore. Key pillars include minimizing socio-economic harms, maximizing economic benefits, and creating a robust regulatory framework.

By adopting global best practices, Rwanda seeks to address current challenges and position itself as a regional leader in responsible gambling. The policy strives to balance a safe gambling environment with the economic benefits of a thriving industry.