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Full citation
Nsereko, N. D., Kaggwa, M. M., Adebisi, T., Ssewanyana, D., Basa, V., Hussain, S., et al. (2023). Gambling prevalence and factors associated with gambling participation among university students in Uganda. Qeios. https://doi.org/10.32388/QL6YC1.2
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Region & Target Population
- Region: Uganda
- Target population: University students aged 19–24.
Study Design
Cross-sectional multi-university survey.
Sample Characteristics (with year collected)
- Total sample: N = 976
- Data collected in 2022.
Measures Used
- Self-report gambling frequency and participation.
- Alcohol use, demographic factors.
- Motivational and psychosocial items.
Research Question
How common is gambling among Ugandan university-aged emerging adults, and which psychosocial factors predict participation?
Key Findings
- Gambling prevalence = 28.8% (281/976).
- Higher likelihood among males, alcohol users, and students experiencing financial strain.
- Sports betting was the dominant form.
Expanded Study Conclusion
This study demonstrates that gambling participation is widespread among young adults in East Africa, with nearly one-third of Ugandan university students actively gambling. Sports betting is deeply embedded in youth culture, driven by mobile technology and widespread promotion. The findings highlight that gambling exposure is accelerating in Africa, particularly among emerging adults navigating academic, financial, and social pressures. Uganda's university students mirror global risk patterns: males, substance users, and financially stressed youth are most vulnerable. This study confirms that the 18–24 window in LMIC contexts is a critical stage for targeted prevention.
