Has Sporty Bet Closed Shop in Uganda?

For the past month, the Ugandan betting scene has been thrown into disarray as Sporty Bet, a popular sports betting platform, ceased its deposit operations. The website, while remaining accessible, has been displaying an error message to its users attempting to make deposits: “Currently, we are unable to process any deposits. However, you can still enjoy placing bets and making withdrawals. We apologize for any inconveniences this may cause.”

This sudden service disruption has left many punters in a state of frustration, seeking answers and clarity. According to reliable sources, the underlying issue stems from a licensing complication. The Gaming and Lotteries Board in Uganda, in conjunction with payment service providers, reportedly deactivated Sporty Bet’s deposit functionality on April 15 due to the expiration of its operating license.

The licensing process in Uganda, governed by the Lotteries and Gaming Act, 2016, is a meticulous procedure that can extend up to a month. Under Section 41 of the Act, the Board is empowered to grant licenses, provided applicants submit a comprehensive dossier including details such as the nature of the activity, personal or corporate information, and the necessary fees and documentation.

Further scrutiny is applied as per Section 42, where the Board evaluates the applicant’s integrity, competence, and financial standing to ensure compliance with the Act. The Board’s decision, following a thorough investigation, must be communicated within twenty-one days, either granting the license, rejecting the application, or issuing a partial approval.

The requirements for licensing are extensive, ranging from proof of incorporation to audited financial statements and detailed business plans. Applicants must also provide security guarantees and pay the stipulated license fees.

In light of these regulations, Sporty Bet’s silence on the matter has only fueled speculation. The company’s officials have refrained from providing a concrete explanation, while their social media responses have been consistently vague, promising a resolution to the technical difficulties without offering a definitive timeline.

For now, the future of Sporty Bet in Uganda hangs in the balance, with punters hoping for a swift return to normalcy and the company striving to navigate the complexities of the licensing labyrinth.