Ghana Gaming Commission Takes Action Against Betting Firms Near Schools and Places of Worship
The Ghana Gaming Commission is set to implement stricter regulations on betting companies operating near schools and religious institutions due to rising concerns about their negative impact on minors and vulnerable communities.
During a familiarization tour, Commissioner Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo voiced the Commission’s dedication to enforcing existing zoning regulations within the burgeoning gambling sector. He emphasized that facilities found in violation of these regulations would incur severe penalties.
With a recent survey from TGM Research indicating that 41.7% of Ghanaians engaged in sports betting in the past year, Ghana ranks among the top four African countries for betting participation. The gaming industry is rapidly expanding, supported by approximately 25 licensed sports betting operators, 12 online casinos, and 24 physical casinos, all under the supervision of the Gaming Commission.
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“As part of our mandate, gaming operators are prohibited from establishing facilities near schools and religious institutions. If an applicant’s proposed location is too close to these areas, we will not grant a license. Our goal is to prevent school children from being drawn into gambling at the expense of their education… We will take firm action against illegal gambling operators and ensure strict enforcement of the law,” Quainoo stated.
In addition to regulatory measures, the Commission is proactively addressing the issue of gambling addiction. The Commissioner announced plans to work alongside psychologists to provide necessary support to individuals grappling with gambling-related challenges.
