Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which regulates the gaming industry, released a new policy for gambling in the country. The policy seeks to regulate the gambling subsector and reap economic benefits while minimizing economic and health effects on gamers.
Between 2013 and 2019, the gambling industry in Rwanda generated a gross revenue of Rwf264.3 billion, with taxes totaling Rwf8.8 billion. Contributions to the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB) amounted to Rwf623.2 million, while levies and fees reached Rwf334.2 million.
The New Times breaks down ten things to know about the gambling policy.
1. Objective of the new gambling policy
The newly published Rwanda Gambling Policy aims to create a well-regulated gambling framework that balances economic growth with public welfare. It focuses on minimizing social risks while maximizing the sector's economic benefits, fostering a safer and more structured gambling environment.
2. What is new?
Gambling policy of Rwanda adopts a comprehensive strategy built on three pillars: minimizing social harm, maximizing economic benefits, and strengthening regulatory oversight. Key measures include a centralized monitoring system, licensing reforms, and responsible gambling initiatives to ensure a balanced and well-regulated gambling sector.
3. New licensing standards
Gambling operators in Rwanda will face updated licensing requirements under the new policy, including premises permitting designed to align with safety standards and economic contribution.
4. Enhance consumer protection and social responsibility
The new policy strengthens consumer protection and social responsibility with measures like mandatory messages in ads about age and identity verification, and self-exclusion programmes to ensure responsible gambling.
It also requires operators to provide support programmes for those affected by gambling-related harms, working closely with health and social services.
5. Gradual phaseout of slot machines
The new policy mandates the immediate phase-out of slot machines due to their high social impact and low economic value. Confiscated machines from licensed operators will be managed through agreements with the regulator, while illegal machines will be disposed of per legal procedures.
6. Tax requirements for the gambling
The policy introduces a streamlined tax framework for the gambling sector. It aims to boost revenue collection, fund public health and social programmes, and curb excessive gambling. Tiered tax rates will be applied based on the social and economic impact of different gambling categories.
7. Support for businesses impacted by new policy
The Rwanda Development Board will support businesses impacted by the policy changes with clear licensing reapplication guidelines, a defined transition period for compliance, and resources for operational adjustments.
These efforts aim to ensure a smooth shift to a more structured and regulated gambling sector aligned with national social and economic objectives.
8. Re-licensing in fairness and transparency
RDB will implement a transparent re-licensing process for all gambling operators, both existing and new. This process will use uniform evaluation criteria to ensure compliance with high standards of social responsibility, financial transparency, and market fairness.
9. Guidelines for online gambling
The new policy supports online gambling within a regulated framework, requiring strict licensing and compliance to ensure consumer protection, transparency, and financial security. Online operators must follow detailed guidelines, including technical standards and responsible gambling protocols.
10. Long-term objectives for gambling policy
The new gambling policy aims to build a safe, regulated industry that enhances economic benefits while reducing social harm. Its long-term goals include a 60% reduction in gambling addiction by 2030, increased contributions to public programs, and positioning Rwanda as a regional leader in responsible gambling.