Rwanda government vows stronger action against betting

By The Inspirer.

The Rwandan government says it will step up efforts to address gambling and betting, amid concerns that the growing practice is driving some people into poverty and contributing to family breakdown.

Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva made the remarks on October 2, 2026, while presenting the government’s progress in developing the financial sector before Parliament.

The issue was raised by Senator Charles Murigande, who called on the government to take stronger measures against gambling, saying it is leaving some people financially distressed to the point that even employed parents struggle to afford their children’s school expenses.

“The problem of people engaging in gambling is causing poverty in this country, and it is not only about poverty; it is increasingly breaking up families. Just as the government has taken action against illicit alcohol, it should also step up the fight against gambling because it is destroying families and impoverishing people,” Murigande said.

He argued that addressing the problem would help people improve their livelihoods and build savings, which in turn would contribute to the development of the financial sector.

Prime Minister Nsengiyumva said the government was aware of the concerns surrounding gambling and had already taken some measures, including closing some betting shops. However, he acknowledged that more needed to be done.

“We will also look into this issue, just as we did with illicit alcohol, because the measures we have taken so far appear not to have eliminated the problem,” he said.

Across the country, some residents have also raised concerns about the impact of gambling, particularly the temptation to stake small amounts of money in the hope of winning much larger sums based on odds offered on different sporting events.

Gambling activities in Rwanda include sports betting as well as other forms such as Akadege, casinos, horse racing and lotteries.

The Prime Minister’s remarks signal that the government is considering additional measures to address the social and economic consequences associated with gambling and betting.