Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Samuel Awuku, has called for urgent reforms in Ghana’s lottery sector to maximize revenue, combat illegal lottery operations, and channel funds into national development projects.
The former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) stressed the immense potential of lottery proceeds in supporting education, healthcare, and social welfare.
He urged lawmakers to amend the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722) to ensure that lottery revenues directly fund critical national programs.
Sammy Awuku made the call in a statement on the floor of the House, emphasizing that, despite generating over GH¢300 million annually, the NLA’s contributions often get lost in the general budget.
Citing global examples, he argued that properly directed lottery revenues could significantly impact sectors like education, health, and youth development.
“In California, 95 cents from every dollar spent on the lottery goes to funding public schools. In the UK, over £80 million from lottery proceeds supported more than 1,300 athletes for the Rio Olympics,” Awuku stated.
He proposed that Ghana emulate countries like Spain, Greece, and Australia, where lottery revenues fund essential services. He suggested channelling proceeds into the District Assemblies Common Fund to aid Members of Parliament in constituency development.
“We must demystify the lottery and promote it as not just a game of chance, but a powerful tool for national progress,” he urged.
Awuku revealed that illegal lottery operators control nearly 60% of Ghana’s lottery market, depriving the state of millions in revenue. He described the penalties under the current law—a maximum fine of 2,500 penalty units or a three-year jail term—as insufficient deterrents.
“These illegal operators have deep pockets. They pay the fines and return to business the next day. We need stricter laws, including higher fines, longer jail terms, and forfeiture of illegally acquired assets to the NLA,” he asserted.
He pointed to global trends, noting that $1.8 trillion was lost to illegal lottery and gambling operations in 2022. Countries like Malta have tackled this issue through effective regulation, making online gaming their second-largest GDP contributor.
While advocating for more revenue from lottery operations, Awuku stressed the need for responsible gaming policies. He proposed establishing community social centres to help people deal with addiction and anxiety.
“The lottery should benefit society, not harm it. We need advisory centres in every district and regional NLA office to provide support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction,” he said.
To encourage compliance and boost revenue, Awuku called for tax incentives for companies operating legally under NLA regulations., which he said could generate over GH¢600 million annually.
Sammy Awuku urged Parliament to take immediate action to reform the lottery sector, ensuring that its proceeds directly improve the lives of Ghanaians stating, “If we act now, Ghana’s lottery can become a sustainable, well-regulated industry that funds national development while eliminating illegal operations.
