DRC Plans Stricter Regulation of Gambling Sector

February 11, 2026 - National Deputy Willy Mishiki Buhini submitted a bill to the National Assembly aimed at regulating the gambling sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The proposed legislation seeks to establish procedures for collecting royalties and contributions from gambling activities, while strengthening state control over a sector that generates significant financial resources, much of which currently escapes the public treasury. According to Deputy Mishiki, who represents Walikale (North Kivu), this initiative aligns with the DRC’s strategic partnership commitments with the United States, particularly regarding the fight against money laundering and financing of terrorism. “Our legislation no longer allows the Congolese state to effectively control this sector,” he said. He also highlighted social concerns: gambling addiction is impacting impoverished communities, further deepening poverty. The bill includes a 5% tax on gambling revenue and proposes reforms to the National Lottery Society, modeled after the Canadian Lottery, which finances over 60% of social housing. Deputy Mishiki claims that, if implemented, the law could allow the state to recover nearly two billion dollars and strengthen the financial system.