Kampala, Uganda: ITHUBA Uganda, the official operator of the Uganda National Lottery, Thursday unveiled a groundbreaking Corporate Social Investment (CSI) Empowerment Programme aimed at transforming the lives of boda boda riders through financial inclusion, digital skills training, and entrepreneurship.
The new initiative, launched in collaboration with the Boda Boda Association of Uganda, seeks to empower riders earn beyond their daily hustle just by training and registering them as National Lottery ticket sellers.
Through this model, participants will earn commission-based income while continuing their transport work, integrating skill-building with entrepreneurship opportunities that can uplift their livelihoods.
Speaking at the launch of the CSI initiative at the company’s head offices in Kololo, a Kampala urban suburb, ITHUBA Uganda Chairman Mr. Bob Kabonero described the programme as a new vision for corporate investment in communities.
“At ITHUBA, we believe true empowerment is not about giving handouts—it’s about creating opportunity. This programme gives riders the tools, skills, and support to build sustainable income and turn potential into progress,” Kabonero said.
Eric Mabuza Jr, the ITHUBA General Manager emphasized that the National Lottery’s mission goes far beyond gaming and entertainment. “Through this initiative, we are building entrepreneurs, not just participants. We’re turning everyday Ugandans into partners in progress,” he said.
Mr. Kenneth Kitariko, the Chairman of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), hailed ITHUBA Uganda for championing inclusive, people-centered innovation in the gaming industry.
“ITHUBA’s CSI Empowerment Programme is a model of what responsible gaming should look like—where the community becomes the biggest winner. This approach aligns with the Board’s mission to ensure that gaming contributes to national development and citizen empowerment,” Kitariko said.
He commended the company for demonstrating that the gaming industry can be a catalyst for job creation and entrepreneurship, not merely recreation. “This is the kind of partnership we want to see—where licensed operators invest directly in people, not just profit,” he added.
Boda Boda Riders Welcome Initiative
Several boda boda riders who attended the launch expressed optimism that the programme would transform their lives.
Kato George, a rider based at Bukoto Street in Kampala, said the initiative gives him an alternative income stream he can rely on even during tough economic times.
“Fuel prices and maintenance costs keep going up, but now I can sell National Lottery tickets using my phone and earn extra money without stopping my work. This is a big opportunity for us,” he said.
Kanyike Kiviiri, the Chairperson of the Boda Boda Union in Kampala Central, praised ITHUBA for involving them in the programme’s design. “They listened to our challenges and made the programme practical. We are not just beneficiaries—we are partners,” Kanyike noted.
New Rapid-Draw Game: TAANO TAANO
In what was the day’s main highlight, ITHUBA also unveiled TAANO TAANO—a proudly Ugandan rapid-draw game offering draws every five minutes, with tickets starting from as low as UGX 100. The new game aims to promote responsible entertainment while extending financial participation to millions of Ugandans.
“Together, Lottery Xpress and TAANO TAANO expand the reach of the National Lottery, creating excitement for players and opportunities for communities,” said Lottery Specialist Mr. Gys Potgieter.
Potgieter highlighted the role of the company’s Lottery Xpress platform in driving innovation and financial inclusion. “With Lottery Xpress, anyone with a smartphone can become a digital lottery agent. It’s simple, fast, and accessible—allowing micro-entrepreneurs to earn income while connecting more people to the National Lottery network,” he explained.
Explaining why they chose to start with Boda Boda riders in this CSI, ITHUBA Uganda Spokesperson Mr. Stephen Muneza emphasized that the initiative goes beyond creating income opportunities—it focuses on the safety, dignity, and welfare of the riders.
“This (CSI) programme is not only about empowering boda boda riders to become millionaires, but also ensuring their safety on the road. That’s why we’ve provided branded reflector jackets and helmets at no cost,” Muneza said.
He further explained that while betting depends on odds, the lottery is purely based on luck and fairness, giving every participant an equal chance to win. “The National Lottery is a game of luck, not chance manipulation. Anyone can win by simply selecting random numbers in a draw. It’s open, transparent, and inclusive,” he said.
Mr Muneza urged boda boda riders, civil servants, and members of the public to embrace the National Lottery, noting its convenience and accessibility. “With just a smartphone and an internet connection, you can play anytime, anywhere. It’s flexible and safe, designed to bring fun and opportunity to all Ugandans,” he concluded.
ITHUBA Uganda operates under a 10-year license issued by the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board, with the mandate to build a safe, transparent, and socially responsible lottery that contributes to national growth through innovation and empowerment.
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