Rwanda has launched InteGo!, a new national lottery expected to generate $37.6 million (approx. Rwf55 billion) over five years to support development initiatives in sports, health and culture.

Owned by the Government of Rwanda and regulated by the National Lottery and Gambling Commission (NLGC), InteGo! takes its name from the Kinyarwanda word (intego) meaning "goal” and operates under the slogan "Every Play Makes a Difference”.

The lottery will be operated by Moja Rwanda Ltd, a technical partner selected through a competitive process.

The government expects money generated by the lottery to support public-benefit programmes, including sports development, healthcare and cultural initiatives.

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Serge Nyombayire, Head of Gambling Licensing and Regulations at NLGC, said the lottery would provide an additional source of funding for national development while operating under strict rules to protect players.

"Beyond offering a new form of entertainment, the initiative will generate resources to support investments in sports, health and culture, contributing to talent development, community wellbeing and broader national development priorities,” he said.

How the lottery works

InteGo! allows adults aged 18 and above to participate using their mobile phones or the internet, without necessarily visiting a physical outlet.

Players can take part by dialling *759 on their phones, using mobile money, visiting the official website, www.intego.rw, or downloading the lottery’s mobile application. Participation starts at Rwf100.

Authorised agents will also be available to help customers who need assistance, although ticket purchases and payments will be processed digitally.

The lottery’s Lotto 5/90 draws will be broadcast live on Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) television, starting Wednesday, October 28.

The draws will take place at 7:40 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and at 7:15 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.

The official launch also featured the first InteGo! draw.

Daniel Muhizi, General Manager of Moja Rwanda Ltd, said the company had invested in digital systems designed to make the lottery secure, reliable and transparent.

"As the technical operator of InteGo!, our priority is to deliver a secure, transparent and reliable national lottery that meets international standards and earns public confidence. We have invested in digital technology and operational systems that ensure accountability, protect players and provide a seamless experience across the country,”

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Rules to protect players

Authorities say the lottery will operate under Rwanda’s gambling regulations, with measures intended to prevent minors and vulnerable people from being harmed by gambling.

Participation is limited to adults aged 18 and above. The platform also includes spending limits and options allowing players to take breaks from gambling.

People who need help with gambling-related problems can call the free support helpline on 2075. Players who wish to stop participating can also request that their accounts be closed.

The regulator will oversee the lottery’s operations, including compliance with the law, the protection of players and accountability in the management of proceeds.

However, the lottery’s organisers warn that it should be treated as entertainment, not as a reliable source of income or a solution to financial difficulties.

In the coming weeks, InteGo! teams plan to visit communities across Rwanda to explain how the lottery works, answer questions and encourage responsible participation.

For assistance or inquiries, players can contact InteGo!’s customer care line on 0788 184 700.