Fun first
Poker is a game of skill and luck. You will not win every day. Keep it fun by setting limits.
Play Safe (25+ in Uganda)
Poker should be fun, not stressful. Set simple limits, take breaks, and use tools that help you stay in control. In Uganda, casinos and most betting are 25+. This page is easy English and practical.
Age rule
25+ for casinos, betting and most gaming in Uganda. National lottery may be 18+. Always check current rules.
Stay legal
Play at licensed venues/sites. Ask the venue or check the operator’s licence before you play.
New to poker? Read What is Poker? · Rules: Texas Hold’em · Hand order: Hand Ranks
Why play safe?
Protect your money
Use a small, separate bankroll. Never borrow to play. Do not use rent or food money.
Protect your time
Decide when you start and when you stop. Take short breaks. Sleep well.
Stay within the law
Only play if you are 25+ (lottery may be 18+). Use licensed venues or sites.
Set your limits (before you play)
Money limit
- Pick a daily/weekly amount you can afford to lose.
- Bring only that amount (cash or bankroll on site).
- When limit is reached, stop for the day.
Time limit
- Choose a session length (e.g., 2 hours).
- Set a phone alarm or calendar reminder.
- When time is up, take a real break.
Stop-loss & stop-win
- Stop-loss: the most you will lose (e.g., 4 buy-ins).
- Stop-win: a profit point to lock in (e.g., +3 buy-ins).
- Revisit tomorrow with a clear head.
Mind & body check
- Do not play when tired, angry, or upset.
- No alcohol or drugs while playing.
- Eat, drink water, and stretch between sessions.
Simple rule: decide your limits when calm, not during a downswing.
Quick self-check (for you)
Tick any that feel true recently. If you tick several, consider a break and talk to someone you trust.
This is not a diagnosis. It’s a simple check to help you stay in control.
If you feel at risk: do this
1) Take a break
Log out, walk, sleep. Even 24–72 hours helps clear your mind.
2) Set hard limits
Use deposit limits, loss limits, and time-outs in your poker app or casino account.
3) Self-exclude
Ask the operator to block your account for a period. Many sites offer 6–12 month self-exclusion.
4) Get support
Talk to a friend or a counselor. If in doubt, speak to your doctor or a local support service.
5) Control the device
Use phone/computer settings to block purchases or limit app time while you take a break.
Tools that help
On the poker site
- Deposit limits (daily/weekly/monthly).
- Loss limits and session time-outs.
- Self-exclusion (temporary or long-term).
- Close duplicate accounts if you made more than one.
On your phone/computer
- Screen Time / Digital Wellbeing: set time limits for apps.
- Disable one-tap payments while on a break.
- Use calendars/alarms for session end times.
Tip: write your limits on paper and keep it in your wallet. It works.
For friends & family
Signs to watch
- Secretive play or hidden debts.
- Chasing losses; missing work/school.
- Stress, anger, or mood swings after sessions.
How to help
- Talk kindly. Pick a calm time, not right after a loss.
- Offer to sit with them while they set limits or self-exclude.
- Encourage sleep, food, exercise and non-poker hobbies.
Play Safe — FAQ
Why 25+ in Uganda?
Uganda has a higher minimum age for casinos and most betting (25+). The national lottery may be 18+. Always check the latest rules.
Is online poker allowed?
Only with licensed operators who follow the rules (age checks, responsible gaming, etc.). Avoid unlicensed sites.
Can I win back my losses by playing more?
No plan can guarantee wins. Chasing losses usually makes things worse. Take a break and follow your limits.
What if I think I have a problem?
Pause your account, set limits, and speak with someone you trust or a counselor. Your health comes first.
Helpful links
Information only. We do not run games or accept bets. In Uganda, casinos and most betting are 25+. Play within your means.