Government Issues Tough New Directives on Alcohol, Betting

What the report says

Uganda’s Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi has issued new directives to local councils, ordering them to open sittings to journalists, publish approved budgets and tighten controls on alcohol and betting operations. According to Nile Post, the circular is dated August 10, 2026 and was sent to LCV chairpersons, city mayors, division mayors and council speakers, with immediate effect.

The measures are framed as part of a push for transparency, accountability and community discipline. Councils are being told to allow press access to their meetings, while approved budgets must be displayed on council notice boards and other public spaces so residents can track spending and project delivery. The minister also said the changes are meant to help citizens follow local decision-making more closely.

On alcohol, the directive warns operators against selling to anyone under 18 and says those who do so may be arrested and prosecuted. It also says bars, Malwa joints and similar outlets should not open before 3pm on working days, subject to applicable laws and licensing rules. Repeated breaches could lead to closure and other enforcement action.

The circular further instructs local governments to regulate betting company operating hours, with the stated aim of reducing harm, especially among young people. Nile Post reported that security teams and council enforcement officers are expected to support implementation, while local leaders are required to oversee compliance and report problems through official channels.