Burundi is accelerating its Vision 2035 development strategy by transforming LONA, the National Lottery Agency (Loterie Nationale du Burundi), into the country’s sole gambling regulator. This strategic shift marks a significant departure from LONA’s previous dual role as both operator and overseer of gambling activities. By relinquishing its operational functions, LONA is now fully dedicated to regulation, a move aimed at enhancing transparency, curbing illegal gambling, and aligning the sector with international best practices.
The transformation is being implemented through a phased, multi-year plan that includes the deployment of advanced digital monitoring systems and the establishment of a robust legal and institutional framework. LONA has partnered with NSoft, a global technology provider, to develop a comprehensive regulatory infrastructure capable of supervising a wide range of gambling activities, including lotteries, sports betting, horse racing, and digital gaming platforms. Future phases will extend oversight to casinos and other high-stakes gaming environments, ensuring that all forms of gambling fall under a unified regulatory umbrella.
This overhaul is a cornerstone of Burundi’s broader Vision 2035 agenda, which seeks to modernize public institutions, strengthen governance, and stimulate sustainable economic growth. By centralizing control under a single regulatory body, the government aims to increase tax revenues, protect consumers, and foster a more accountable and professional gambling industry. The move also reflects a growing recognition of the economic potential of the gambling sector, particularly in the context of digital transformation and mobile accessibility.
LONA’s redefined mandate includes licensing, compliance enforcement, and consumer protection, functions that are critical to maintaining integrity and public trust in the industry. The agency is expected to play a proactive role in monitoring operators, preventing fraud, and ensuring that gambling remains a fair and responsible form of entertainment. This regulatory clarity is also intended to attract reputable investors and operators who are willing to comply with stringent standards, thereby boosting confidence in the market.
Burundi’s initiative mirrors a broader trend across Africa, where governments are increasingly formalizing and regulating gambling sectors that have expanded rapidly in recent years. The rise of mobile betting and online gaming has created both opportunities and challenges, prompting many countries to rethink their regulatory approaches. In this context, Burundi’s decision to separate regulation from operation and invest in modern oversight tools positions it as a potential model for others navigating similar transitions.
As the 2035 deadline approaches, the success of this initiative will depend on sustained political will, effective implementation, and the ability to adapt to an evolving digital landscape. If executed well, LONA’s transformation could not only strengthen the integrity of Burundi’s gambling sector but also contribute meaningfully to the country’s long-term development goals.