NICHOLAS A
Leaders from various parts of Rukungiri have voiced concerns over the continued operation of slot machines in the district, arguing that they are negatively impacting communities.
Rukungiri District Speaker James Turyamubona told our reporter that these machines are leading to an increase in school dropouts, particularly among the youth. He emphasized that authorities must choose between allowing the slot machine business to generate revenue at the expense of the younger generation or banning it to secure a responsible future for Ugandans.
Kyarisiima Benon, the LC V Councillor for Buhunga Sub County, acknowledged that while these machines generate revenue for the government, they have caused significant harm to communities. He noted that many young people have abandoned work and turned to gambling, which has become a major concern for parents.
Rukungiri District Chairperson Kyomukama Geoffrey called for a total ban on the business, arguing that it encourages criminal behavior, such as theft, among young people desperate for gambling money. He pledged to work with other authorities to eliminate slot machines from the district, stating that they do more harm than good.
Kellen Kagisha, the Rukungiri Assistant Resident District Commissioner, dismissed claims that the business operators have clearance from the district security committee, stating that such claims are false. She revealed that the RDC’s office has long condemned slot machines and is now actively working to eradicate them.
She added that authorities have already begun confiscating the machines due to the owners’ failure to comply with directives.
1 Comment