Following decisive action by the National Lotteries & Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), Melbet has exited Uganda’s betting market. The government cancelled the operating license of Fox Bet Limited, which traded as Melbet in Uganda. The cancellation took effect on January 1 this year.
In a public notice published in terms of Section 4(j) of the Lotteries and Gaming Act, Cap. 334, the NLGRB made the announcement in a public notice. The NLGRB stated in its notice that MelBet no longer holds a valid licence to operate in Uganda. It added that all business activities of the company have ceased. The National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board also informed the public that Fox Bet Limited, trading as MelBet, has stopped all operations in the country. This is effective January 1, 2026. Moreover, the board has revoked its license.
The regulatory authority released an urgent notice to players who had accounts with MelBet after the shutdown. The NLGRB has instructed all players with MelBet accounts to immediately withdraw their remaining balances. It also ordered them to close their accounts as a precautionary measure. The regulator warned that continued use poses financial risks because MelBet is operating without a license. It meant that players who keep on using the site would not have any regulatory protections if disputes arise.
The NLGRB cited the MelBet case to underscore its concerns about illegal online gaming platforms, warning that operating outside the regulatory framework exposes consumers to the risk of losing funds and having disputes go unresolved. The regulator also reminded the public that engaging with unlicensed operators carries significant risks, including financial losses and a lack of legal protection. It is crucial that all players engage only with licensed and regulated gaming operators in Uganda to ensure their safety and financial security.
