Rwanda Sets December Deadline for Foreign Operators to Remove 1,000 Slot Machines
Eight foreign-owned gambling operators running approximately 1,000 slot machines in Rwanda face a December 2025 deadline to remove all equipment from the country. Meanwhile, the Rwanda Development Board issued the directive as part of a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed and non-compliant machines.
Updated Framework Restricts Machines to Licensed Casinos
The revised regulatory framework restricts slot machines to fully licensed casino environments only. Therefore, operators who previously ran slot machine networks in small arcades, bars, and retail outlets under older licensing agreements no longer comply. Moreover, the three-month deadline that started in September 2025 requires companies to withdraw machines and repatriate them to countries where they are permitted. Consequently, authorities aim to ensure slot machines are used responsibly within regulated casino environments.
Most affected companies operated under older licensing models that allowed broader deployment across various venue types. Meanwhile, the 2024 gambling framework introduced stricter venue requirements and operational standards. Additionally, authorities found certain operators had exceeded licensing limits or installed equipment in unauthorized locations. Therefore, the updated regulations eliminate business models dependent on small-scale arcade and bar placements.
Nationwide Collection Targets 7,000 Unlicensed Units
The Rwanda Development Board partnered with Enviroserve Rwanda to dismantle and recycle over 7,000 unlicensed slot machines nationwide. Therefore, the initiative aims to curb gambling-related harm while ensuring safe disposal of hazardous electronic components. Moreover, the collection drive began two months ago with over 3,500 machines already collected from Kigali and Eastern Province. Consequently, operations are expanding into Southern, Western, and Northern provinces.
Hazardous materials are separated from reusable components during dismantling processes at facilities in Bugesera District. Meanwhile, steel, copper, and aluminum are recovered while plastics are sent to Asia for recycling into clothing fibers. Additionally, circuit boards containing precious metals are exported to Dubai for smelting. Therefore, Enviroserve trains local youth in safe dismantling practices creating employment and skills development opportunities while authorities enforce Rwanda’s national gambling policy emphasizing responsible gaming and minimized social harm.
Recommended