JACKPOT GOES BUST! ITHUBA Shuts Shop Just 2 Years After Launch

The dream of becoming Uganda’s next instant millionaire has suffered a major blow after ITHUBA Uganda Limited, the operator of the National Lottery, abruptly shut down operations—barely two years after its high-profile launch.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB) confirmed that ITHUBA officially ceased operations in Uganda on July 1, 2026, despite having launched the National Lottery under a 10-year licence.
The regulator said it has taken over management of the operator’s exit process and is monitoring compliance to ensure winners and other stakeholders receive what is owed to them.
Players with outstanding winnings or account balances have been advised to contact ITHUBA through its official communication channels to process their claims as the regulator oversees settlement of valid obligations.
Sources at ITHUBA told Red Pepper that the company was forced out of business by the difficult economic environment, although they declined to elaborate further. The company says its offices remain open to handle all legitimate claims from players with outstanding winnings.
ITHUBA entered the Ugandan market with much fanfare in 2024 after securing a 10-year licence to operate the National Lottery. Official ticket sales began in June 2024, with the company promising life-changing jackpots for lucky Ugandans.

Its sudden exit has now left players, agents and stakeholders asking what went wrong.
While the official explanation points to a tough business environment, Red Pepper has established that the closure may have been preceded by deeper internal challenges.
Highly placed sources say serious disagreements allegedly emerged between the shareholders behind the National Lottery operation. ITHUBA, the South African investor, reportedly held a 65% stake, while its Ugandan partner, Verscalli Ltd, owned the remaining 35%.
According to sources familiar with the matter, disputes over finances and the running of the business allegedly escalated to a point where the partners could no longer work together.
There are also reports that some players winnings were delayed or remained unpaid and this sharply divided the investors.
WATCH THIS SPACE! In our next editions, we reveal the inside story of the alleged boardroom war, the money disputes, and what really happened behind ITHUBA’s dramatic exit from Uganda.