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PlayCasino.co.nz Backs New NZ Gambling Laws, Launches ‘Fair Play’ Audit to Protect Kiwis from Predatory No Deposit Bonus Terms

By
Boses Muhinda
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WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – March 6, 2026 – As New Zealand prepares for the most significant regulatory overhaul in its digital gambling history, the nation’s leading independent casino comparison site, PlayCasino.co.nz, has announced a sweeping “Fair Play” audit of its entire platform. The initiative is designed to protect Kiwi players from predatory offshore promotions as the country transitions to a strict 15-license regulated market.

Under the new Online Casino Gambling Bill, the unregulated offshore “grey market” will officially end on December 1, 2026. From that date, only 15 government-approved operators will be legally permitted to offer services to New Zealanders. In response, PlayCasino.co.nz is actively updating its platform to ensure players are shielded from desperate offshore operators trying to lock in users with deceptive sign-up offers before the deadline.

Navigating the End of the Unregulated ‘Grey Market’

The incoming legislation introduces stringent harm-minimization rules overseen by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), including a strict $100 cap on inducements, plain-language terms and conditions, and a mandated 4% Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) community funding guarantee.

While these changes are a massive win for consumer protection and local grassroots sports, the transition period has left many Kiwi players confused about which platforms are safe to use right now. PlayCasino.co.nz’s new audit bridges this gap by highlighting only the operators that are already demonstrating a commitment to these incoming 2026 regulatory standards.

Protecting Players Seeking a No Deposit Bonus

A no deposit bonus remains the most sought-after incentive for New Zealanders looking to trial a new online casino without risking their own funds. However, in the dying days of the grey market, some unregulated offshore platforms are weaponizing these offers. They attract players with seemingly generous cash drops, only to bury impossible 100x wagering requirements, hidden withdrawal limits, or fast-expiring time limits deep within the fine print.

Through the “Fair Play” audit, PlayCasino.co.nz guarantees that any no deposit bonus featured on the site is evaluated for absolute clarity. The review team manually tests these bonuses to ensure players understand exactly what is required to clear their funds, flagging any operator that utilizes the hidden regulatory traps the NZ government is actively trying to eliminate.

Securing Fair Free Spins in a Mobile-First Market

As mobile gaming continues to dominate the local market, promotional offers tied to digital pokies have skyrocketed. Free spins are frequently bundled into welcome packages, but not all spins are created equal. Many offshore casinos restrict these spins to low-RTP (Return to Player) games or cap the maximum winnings at frustratingly low amounts.

PlayCasino.co.nz’s audit rigorously scrutinizes these mobile-specific promotions. The platform actively verifies that any free spins awarded to players come with reasonable, wager-friendly terms and are eligible for high-quality games. This ensures the promotions align with the consumer protection spirit of the incoming government legislation, rather than acting as a deceptive lure.

Strict New Structure and Content Requirements for Casino Reviews

To enforce these new protections, PlayCasino.co.nz has proactively overhauled the strict structure and content requirements for all of its online casino reviews. Moving forward, every review published on the platform must adhere to a standardized format that forces transparency. Operators are now graded heavily on the clarity of their bonus terms, their responsible gambling tools, and their readiness to comply with the DIA’s new licensing framework.

“The days of offshore casinos hiding predatory wagering requirements deep in their terms and conditions are over,” said Terri Radford, Head of Content at PlayCasino.co.nz. “With the grey market closing, some overseas operators are making aggressive last-ditch efforts to lock in players. We fully support the government’s new framework, which is why our new review standards ensure we only highlight casinos that treat Kiwis fairly right now.”

PlayCasino.co.nz is urging all New Zealanders currently playing on offshore sites to review their active accounts, cash out pending balances from non-compliant platforms, and utilize the new “Fair Play” review hub to find operators actively preparing for local licensure.

For more information, to access the “Fair Play” approved casino list, or to read the updated review guidelines, visit https://www.playcasino.co.nz/.

About PlayCasino.co.nz: PlayCasino.co.nz is New Zealand’s premier destination for independent, expertly crafted online casino reviews and industry news. Dedicated to player safety and transparent gaming, the platform equips Kiwis with the data, guides, and trusted operator recommendations needed to navigate the digital gambling landscape securely.

Media Contact:

Terri Radford

Terri.Radford@playcasino.co.za

PlayCasino.co.nz

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Betting.za.com supports amendments strengthening South Africa’s voluntary exclusion system and compliance requirements

By
Our Reporter
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Pretoria, South Africa — 06 March 2026 — Betting.za.com, a leading South African information site for online betting and gambling, has welcomed the publication of draft amendments to the National Gambling Regulations, 2004 in Government Gazette No. 54106 (10 February 2026), issued by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition under Government Notice R. 7113.

The amendments focus on improving how South Africa’s Voluntary Exclusion Programme is administered and enforced through the National Register of Excluded Persons, alongside updates to technical rules related to gambling machine re-certification.

“Stronger, clearer processes around voluntary exclusion are an important part of player protection,” said Dennis Kumar, lead betting expert at Betting.za.com. “Anything that makes it easier to exclude, harder to bypass exclusion, and clearer for licensed operators to implement should be supported — because gambling should always stay safe, controlled, and within limits.”

What the Gazette Proposes

1) A clearer way to register for voluntary exclusion

Under the proposed wording, a person who wishes to be registered as an excluded person must submit a notice to the National Gambling Board (the “Board”) in hard copy or electronically using Form NGB 1/1. The notice must include, at a minimum, a recent passport-sized photograph or a digital colour photo with a stated minimum file size.

2) Tighter timelines for handling exclusion notices

The Gazette sets out specific timelines for processing and implementation:

  • Operators must submit the notice to the Board on the day they receive it.
  • The Board must capture the form within five days (excluding weekends and public holidays) and transmit a copy to licence holders and provincial licensing authorities.
  • Operators must prepare and implement administrative processes within five days (excluding weekends and public holidays) after receiving the notice.
  • A notice takes effect 10 days after the date it is submitted to the Board.

3) Stronger internal control expectations for enforcement

The draft amendments add explicit duties related to internal controls, including that licence holders must submit internal control measures to their provincial licensing authority within 90 days after the regulations come into operation, aimed at effectively enforcing exclusion measures within gambling venues and controlling non-participation by excluded persons. Provincial licensing authorities must then submit provincial registers and these internal control measures to the Board.

4) Updated re-certification timing for gambling machines and devices

The Gazette also proposes changes to the timing rules for re-certification of technical amendments to gambling machines and devices, tied to the letter of certification timeline, including a 24-month window in specified circumstances.

5) Updated forms substituted into the Regulations

The Gazette substitutes Forms NGB 1/1 and NGB 1/2, with the updated forms included in the annexure.

What This Means for Players

For players, the most important takeaway is clearer access to voluntary exclusion and stronger enforcement once a person chooses to self-exclude.

Voluntary exclusion is a formal “opt-out” from gambling

If someone feels they are at risk — or they want a firm barrier in place — voluntary exclusion is a formal way to have their details added to the National Register of Excluded Persons, which is accessible to provincial licensing authorities and licensed operators for enforcement.

What happens after you register

The updated Form NGB 1/1 explains that once accepted:

  • You are excluded from designated gambling areas nationally
  • Your name is included on the Register used by regulators and licensed operators
  • You are not permitted to gamble while you remain on the Register.

If you gamble while excluded

The form also notes that gambling during exclusion is in contravention of the exclusion procedures, and any winnings accrued during that period may be forfeited and remitted to the Board.

Support is referenced directly in the official forms

The annexure references the National Responsible Gambling Programme (NRGP) and includes the toll-free helpline 0800 006 008, as well as an SMS/WhatsApp line shown on the form.

What This Means for Licensed Operators and Regulators

While voluntary exclusion begins with an individual’s decision, the Gazette places emphasis on how quickly and consistently the system is implemented across the market:

  • Same-day escalation by operators to the Board after receiving a notice.
  • A defined capture-and-distribution timeline for the Board (five days, excluding weekends and public holidays).
  • Mandatory operator administration within five days, reinforcing that exclusion is not only recorded but operationalised.
  • Formal internal control measures are submitted through provincial licensing authorities, strengthening accountability and auditability of enforcement.

Betting.za.com publishes independent, plain-language guidance across betting and online casinos topics and focuses coverage on licensed operators as part of its broader commitment to safer play and informed decision-making.

“Our mission is to be South Africa’s most reliable and complete source of online betting and casino information,” said Kumar. “That includes making regulatory updates understandable, highlighting practical player protections like exclusion tools, and ensuring readers know where to find help when gambling stops being fun.”

About Betting.za.com

Betting.za.com is South Africa’s trusted source for honest, expert betting and casino information. Led by betting expert Dennis Kumar, the site publishes independent reviews, guides, and industry updates designed to help South Africans make informed choices and prioritise safety.

Responsible gambling support: NRGP toll-free helpline 0800 006 008

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Ruparelia Foundation to hold free eye camp at Bukedea Teaching Hospital in honour of Rajiv Ruparelia

By
Our Reporter
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Hundreds of patients from eastern and northern Uganda are expected to benefit from a free eye treatment camp scheduled to take place later this month at Bukedea Teaching Hospital.

The three-day medical outreach, organised by the Ruparelia Foundation in partnership with specialists from Mulago National Referral Hospital and C-Care, will run from March 27 to March 29.

The camp is being held in honour of tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia’s late son Rajiv Ruparelia, with organisers saying the initiative reflects his legacy of service and compassion toward communities in need.

During the outreach, patients will receive free eye examinations, cataract screenings, reading glasses and children’s spectacles, while cataract surgeries will also be conducted for selected cases.

Organisers say the initiative is aimed at improving access to specialized eye care particularly for residents in rural areas where such services remain limited.

“This outreach is intended to bring quality eye care services closer to communities that often struggle to access specialised treatment. Through this camp, we hope to restore sight and improve the quality of life for many people,”the organisers said.

Medical teams from Mulago National Referral Hospital and C-Care will carry out detailed eye assessments and identify patients requiring further treatment or surgery.

The cataracts remain one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Uganda with many patients unable to access treatment due to financial constraints and limited availability of specialists outside major urban centres.

This program will enable early diagnosis and treatment of eye conditions which is critical in preventing avoidable blindness.

The organisers have invited residents from Bukedea District, Soroti District, Mbale District, Gulu District, Lira District, Tororo District and Kapchorwa District to attend the camp.

The initiative is the group’s community program aimed at improving access to healthcare, education and social services across the country.

“This is about giving people the opportunity to regain their sight and live more productive lives. A simple eye procedure can transform someone’s future,”the organisers added.

Residents experiencing vision problems have been encouraged to report to Bukedea Teaching Hospital during the three-day camp to receive free services.

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Two dead, several injured as Tausi bus–Toyota Noah collide on Mbarara–Bushenyi highway

By
Our Reporter
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Bushenyi-March 5, 2026-Two people have died on the spot, and several others sustained injuries following a fatal road crash involving a passenger bus and a Toyota Noah along the Mbarara–Bushenyi Road in Rwentuuha Town Council, Bushenyi District.
The accident occurred when a Tausi bus that was travelling from Kampala to Bushenyi District collided head-on with a Noah vehicle carrying several passengers. The impact of the crash left three occupants dead instantly, while others were left with serious injuries.
Eyewitnesses say the collision happened in the evening hours, causing panic among road users and residents in the area. Residents rushed to the scene to help pull survivors from the wreckage before emergency teams arrived.
Police and rescue teams later transported the injured victims to nearby health facilities for medical attention, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to the mortuary pending identification and postmortem examinations.
Preliminary reports suggest that the crash may have been caused by reckless driving, although investigations are still ongoing to establish the exact cause of the accident.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, especially along the busy Mbarara–Bushenyi highway, which has in the past recorded several road accidents.
More details about the identities of the deceased and injured victims are expected to be released after police complete their investigations.

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Mbarara High School OBs petition ministry over poor performance

By
Francisco Adongo
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March 5, 2026-Mbarara – Former students of Mbarara High School have petitioned the Ministry of Education and Sports, expressing deep concern over the school’s declining academic performance, questionable governance, and alleged mismanagement of school land.
In the petition, the alumni highlighted what they describe as a “worrying drop” in student results over the past few years, coupled with irregularities in the administration of the school’s resources. The group also raised concerns about the current Board of Governors, urging the ministry to carry out an independent review of its composition and oversight.


“The reputation of Mbarara High School as a centre of academic excellence is at stake,” the petition reads. “We call for urgent action to safeguard the institution’s integrity, ensure proper management, and protect the school’s land assets.”
The alumni are demanding the appointment of an independent team to investigate their claims, as well as recommendations for reforms to restore the school’s standards.
Attempts to reach school officials for comment were unsuccessful, but sources indicate that the Board of Governors is aware of the petition and is expected to respond to the Ministry in the coming days.
This comes amid broader concerns about the management of public schools in the region, where oversight challenges have increasingly drawn scrutiny from alumni and parent groups.

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90 suspects arrested in joint security operations across Kampala Metropolitan

By
Our Reporter
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The 90 suspects arrested in a security crackdown in KMP.

Security agencies under the Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) have arrested 90 suspects during a series of coordinated operations targeting criminal gangs across the Kampala Metropolitan area.
According to police, the joint security operations conducted on Thursday, March 5, 2026, were aimed at cracking down on rising cases of robbery, narcotics trafficking, and theft in several parts of the city and its surrounding districts.
Police said the suspects were apprehended during intelligence-led raids carried out by a combined team of police officers and other security agencies. The operations focused on areas previously identified as crime hotspots within the metropolitan region.
Authorities noted that a number of exhibits were recovered during the operations, including suspected narcotic substances and items believed to have been stolen from victims during robbery incidents.
KMP officials said the arrests form part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to dismantle criminal networks that have been terrorising residents and businesses in Kampala and neighbouring areas.
“The joint operations are intended to restore public confidence and ensure that criminals operating within the metropolitan area are brought to justice,” police said in a statement.
The suspects are currently being detained at various police stations across the Kampala Metropolitan area as investigations continue. Police added that those found culpable will be formally charged and arraigned before court.
Security agencies have also urged members of the public to continue cooperating with law enforcement by providing timely information that can help in the fight against crime.
Police reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining law and order and warned individuals involved in criminal activities that security operations will continue across the region.

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National Lotteries and Gaming Board champions player protection as Africa’s gaming industry matures

By
Francisco Adongo
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Some of the CEOs of lotteries and gaming regulators across Africa gathered in Cape Town, South Africa, to discuss Putting the Player First. Uganda was represented by Mr. Denis Mudene Ngabirano, CEO National Lotteries and Gaming Board.

The Chief Executive Officer of the National Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (NLGRB), Denis Mudene joined senior gaming regulators across Africa this week in a panel discussion titled “Regulating Africa: Putting the Player First.”

The forum set new benchmarks for modern gaming solutions that aim to balance strong player protection with sustainable sector growth.

“The key point is that Africa’s gaming industry is no longer emerging. It’s maturing and with that maturity comes responsibility. The solution lies in evidence‑led policy,” Mr. Mudene emphasized.

Panelists highlighted the rapid evolution of gaming technologies and the need for regulatory frameworks that safeguard consumers while encouraging innovation. The discussion also stressed the importance of data‑driven policies to ensure operators maintain ethical standards and protect vulnerable players.

The event underscored the role of collaborative efforts among regulators in harmonizing rules and strengthening supervisory mechanisms across African markets, promoting both investor confidence and fair play.

Mr. Mudene’s participation reaffirms the NLGRB’s commitment to adopting global best practices and positioning Uganda as a leader in responsible gaming on the continent.

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Parliament demands full accountability of Departed Asians’ properties from Custodian Board

By
Simon Kabayo
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Parliament’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises.

Parliament’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has ordered the Departed Asians Property Custodian Board (DAPCB) to produce a complete inventory of all properties under its management, including those repossessed, valued or sold.

The directive came on Wednesday during a grilling session where Executive Secretary George William Bizibu appeared before COSASE to respond to concerns raised in the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2024.

Lawmakers expressed frustration that, despite repeated government directives, the board still lacks a comprehensive asset register. COSASE warned that the absence of a verified list exposes properties to mismanagement, illegal allocations, and potential loss of revenue.

“The committee expects a full account of all properties, including those donated or allocated by the Minister, to ensure transparency and proper oversight,”COSASE members instructed.

The DAPCB is responsible for managing assets left behind by Asians expelled from Uganda in 1972, which include land, businesses and residential properties across towns like Kampala, Jinja, Masaka, and Iganga. Despite decades of management, audits reveal persistent gaps in documentation, record keeping, and verification of ownership, leading to disputes and allegations of misappropriation.

The Auditor General’s report highlighted that some properties already sold were still listed on the board’s books, while several government ministries and agencies occupying these properties have accumulated rental arrears amounting to billions of shillings.

COSASE members also raised concerns that some properties may have been transferred using questionable documents, including powers of attorney of dubious authenticity. Lawmakers warned that failure to maintain accurate records could result in costly legal battles and further compromise the board’s accountability.

Bizibu acknowledged the shortcomings but assured the committee that efforts are underway to compile a verified register and reconcile existing records. COSASE has set a deadline for the board to present the complete inventory, signaling that Parliament will maintain close oversight over these historically significant assets.

The scrutiny comes amid renewed calls for transparency and accountability in the management of departed Asians’ properties, which have long been entangled in legal disputes, contested ownership claims, and allegations of irregular disposals.

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PAC probes Judiciary over Shs54.4b in unclaimed bail deposits

By
Simon Kabayo
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Members of Parliament on PAC grilling officials from the judiciary, led by the Permanent Secretary.

The Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has raised concerns over more than Shs54.4 billion in unclaimed bail fees and security deposits currently being held by the Judiciary, prompting scrutiny over the management of court funds and the process used to refund money to suspects.

The issue came to light during a meeting between PAC and Judiciary officials as lawmakers examined findings in the 2024/2025 Auditor General’s report. Committee members questioned why such a large amount of bail money belonging to private citizens remains in court accounts for extended periods.

Records presented to the committee show that the Judiciary began the current financial year with Shs55.8 billion in unclaimed bail deposits carried forward from previous years. During the same period, courts collected Shs16.15 billion in fresh bail payments, while Shs17.56 billion was refunded to claimants. Despite those refunds, the total amount still held by courts remains above Shs54 billion.

Ibanda North MP Xavier Kyooma said the figures suggest the Judiciary is retaining funds that should have already been returned to their rightful owners.

“At the beginning of the financial year it stood at Shs55.8 billion, meaning the Judiciary was holding money that belonged to claimants,” Kyooma told the committee.

“So we are talking about over Shs54 billion that belongs to people but is still in the hands of the Judiciary. This is not small money.”

Lawmakers also questioned why the refund process remains largely manual despite technological advancements that could make it easier for claimants to recover their deposits.

PAC Vice Chairperson Gorreth Namugga, the Mawogola North MP, described the situation as evidence of systemic weaknesses in the management of bail funds.

“When you look at your records and see Shs54.4 billion as people’s money lying in accounts, it clearly shows there is a problem. Something must be solved,” she said.

“In this era of technology, how can we still be this manual? It is an embarrassment.”

The committee also expressed concern about what some legislators described as excessively high cash bail requirements imposed on suspects, warning that such practices risk turning bail into a punishment rather than a constitutional safeguard.

Namugga cited an example from Ssembabule District where a suspect was reportedly asked to pay Shs1 million in cash bail, raising questions about whether courts are adequately considering the financial circumstances of accused persons.

“Is bail a punishment?” she asked. “To the public, it now looks as if bail is punishment.”

Kassanda North MP Patrick Nsamba urged judicial officers to exercise greater sensitivity when setting bail conditions, especially for suspects from low-income backgrounds.

“You look at someone before you in Ssembabule and ask them to pay Shs1 million cash bail. Even if the entire clan came together, they might not raise that money,” Nsamba said.

However, the Judiciary defended its procedures, maintaining that bail decisions are guided by legal principles and judicial discretion.

Acting Chief Registrar Pamela Lamunu told the committee that bail is meant to balance the rights of accused persons with the interests of justice, stressing that it should not be interpreted as punishment.

“Bail is not a punishment. Every accused person has the right to apply for bail, and it is the discretion of the judicial officer to determine whether to release that person and whether to grant cash or non cash bail,” Lamunu said.

On the issue of unclaimed deposits, Lamunu said courts regularly display information on notice boards explaining how claimants can recover their money and that refunds can also be processed through bank accounts and mobile money channels.

“It does not serve us any good to have that money in our accounts. It is not our money,” she added.

PAC has now directed the Judiciary to submit detailed records of individuals entitled to the refunds and indicate how long some of the funds have remained unclaimed. The committee is also pushing for reforms that could modernize bail administration and ensure that deposits are returned to citizens more quickly.

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Speke Resort Munyonyo unveils women’s day wellness and affordable dining packages

By
Francisco Adongo
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Speke Resort Munyonyo has unveiled a range of wellness, dining and accommodation offers aimed at celebrating women ahead of this year’s International Women’s Day, with organizers inviting families and friends to honor the special women in their lives through relaxation and memorable experiences.

The resort, working through the Calabash Spa Salon announced a series of spa packages under the theme “March Into Wellness” designed to promote relaxation and self care.

One of the signature packages, dubbed She Who Reigns, offers a 150-minute experience for two people at Shs790,000, featuring a Turkish bath, aromatherapy massage, and an express facial.

Another package titled Her Moment of Bliss provides a 100-minute session for one person at Shs200,000, including a lavender sugar scrub and an aromatherapy massage.

Guests seeking a longer spa treatment can opt for Crowned in Confidence, a 195-minute wellness experience for one person priced at Shs380,000. The package includes a honey, brown sugar, and milk body scrub, Cleopatra’s secret massage, and a deep cleansing facial.

According to the resort, all women visiting the spa during the celebrations will also receive a gift of white roses, herbal teas, and fresh juices, while gift vouchers are available for those wishing to surprise loved ones.

Beyond the spa, the resort is also offering a special dining experience featuring live band entertainment alongside a roasted mixed meat platter served with crispy potato wedges and a glass of sangria priced at Shs85,000.

“Make this Women’s Day a moment of relaxation, great music and indulgent dining,” the resort said.

The resort noted that the event is designed to create a warm atmosphere for celebration and appreciation.

Accommodation packages are also available for guests seeking a staycation. Room rates start from Shs 444,000 (approximately $120) for a single room and Shs551,300 (approximately $149) for a double room, both on a bed and breakfast basis.

The resort encouraged the public to take advantage of the offers and celebrate the women in their lives through relaxation, music, and fine dining.

“Celebrate her. Celebrate strength. Celebrate together,” the resort said.

The resort added that the curated experiences are intended to help women unwind while enjoying the serene lakeside environment of Munyonyo.

Reservations and inquiries can be made through the resort’s contact lines or email, with officials noting that terms and conditions apply to all packages.

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