The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) joined the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health and other key stakeholders for the 4th Annual National Mental Health Awareness Camp, a two-day engagement that brought together legislators, health professionals, regulators, civil society actors and members of the public to strengthen national dialogue on mental health.
The camp provided an important platform for open discussion on mental health, stigma reduction, prevention, early intervention and the need for stronger collaboration across sectors. Opening the engagement, Hon. Obigah Rose, Chairperson of the Uganda Parliamentary Forum on Mental Health, reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to prioritising mental health during the 12th Parliament and called for sustained advocacy, policy support and partnerships to address mental health challenges affecting communities across the country.
NLGRB’s participation underscored the Board’s continued commitment to promoting Responsible Gaming as part of its wider mandate to protect the public from gaming-related harm. The Board used the platform to highlight the connection between problem gambling and mental wellbeing, noting that gambling-related harm can quietly affect individuals, families and communities through addiction, financial distress and social strain.
In her presentation, NLGRB’s Senior Manager Licensing and Responsible Gaming, Ms. Alicia Atukunda said through the Responsible Gaming program, the Board continues to promote public education, informed decision-making, consumer protection and safer gaming practices. The engagement further reinforced the importance of working with health professionals, policymakers, operators, communities and other stakeholders to prevent problem gambling and support those at risk.
Closing the camp, the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, pledged continued support for mental health advocacy and emphasised the importance of keeping mental health firmly on the national agenda. His remarks amplified the shared responsibility of Parliament, regulators, health workers, families and communities in creating supportive environments where people can seek help without stigma.
As the country continues to strengthen mental health awareness and response, NLGRB remains committed to advancing Responsible Gaming, supporting public health efforts and working with partners to reduce gaming-related harm. Mental health is a national responsibility, and collective action remains essential in protecting the wellbeing of all Ugandans.