Gambling addiction in Kibuku has become a growing crisis, with local authorities raising alarms over its harmful impact on youth, education, and public safety. Initially limited to a few kiosks, betting has now become a daily ritual. Young people gather outside makeshift booths, hoping to win quick cash. However, for many, this leads to addiction, crime, and broken families.
Take Ronald Kibwika, a 17-year-old student who began gambling casually with friends. Before long, he had quit school, sold personal items, and turned to petty theft to fund his habit. Clearly, his story reflects a wider pattern of destruction affecting the district.
“Kibuku faces a silent epidemic,” warned Matia Mulindwa Kagugube, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner. “Gambling addiction in Kibuku is driving school dropouts, family conflicts, and an alarming surge in criminal activities.”
During a recent security meeting in Tirinyi Town Council, Mr. Kagugube revealed that most crimes in the area were committed by young men struggling with gambling-related losses. Consequently, police officials have intensified enforcement operations. Dickens Turyagenda, the District Police Commander, noted that community complaints have surged in recent months. As a result, local leaders and police are collaborating to curb the crime wave.
Moreover, Zadock Kajera, officer-in-charge at Tirinyi Police Station, claimed that some local council leaders are enabling illegal betting. He said, “There’s a gang called the ‘Gaza boys’ that is terrorizing neighborhoods. Fortunately, we’ve arrested a key suspect and are tracking his accomplices.” Police plan to increase patrols in Bukasambya, Market, and Pallisa Road, which have become known as gambling hotspots.
Meanwhile, LC3 Chairman Ivan Wampula of Tirinyi Town Council emphasized prevention. “We urgently need awareness campaigns to educate the public about gambling’s risks. In addition, setting strict operating hours for betting shops can help reduce youth exposure,” he said.
Even though gambling is regulated under Uganda’s Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board, enforcement in rural areas like Kibuku remains weak. Unlicensed kiosks openly operate and allow underage gambling, creating a lawless environment.
In response, community leaders, school administrators, and religious institutions are working together. Their goal is to launch outreach programs aimed at prevention and rehabilitation.
Ultimately, gambling addiction in Kibuku is more than a personal issue—it’s a social emergency. It undermines education, promotes crime, and destabilizes households. Nevertheless, through community vigilance, tighter regulations, and continuous education, Kibuku has a chance to reverse the trend and protect its youth from further harm.
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