Help curb underage gambling-Interior Minister charges Gaming Commission
By DL News
Published
1 min read
Expressing concern over the increasing involvement of young people in gambling, he noted that many minors had become addicted, often neglecting their education to spend time at gaming centres.
The Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, has called on the Gaming Commission of Ghana to enforce stricter measures to prevent minors from participating in gambling activities.
Expressing concern over the increasing involvement of young people in gambling, he noted that many minors had become addicted, often neglecting their education to spend time at gaming centres.
His visit aimed to gain insights into the Commission’s operations and explore collaborative efforts to promote responsible gaming across the country.
The Minister acknowledged the Commission’s role in regulating the gaming industry and emphasized the importance of responsible gaming. He reiterated the Commission’s legal mandate under the Gaming Act of 2006 (Act 721), which empowers it to license, monitor, and oversee gaming operators to ensure compliance with the law.
Stressing the need for enforcement, Mr. Muntaka urged the Commission to strengthen its efforts in tackling underage gambling while ensuring that the industry positively contributes to the nation’s development.
Addressing some of the Commission’s operational challenges, including limited office space, he assured that discussions would be held with the Ministry of Finance to secure a more suitable working environment.
Meanwhile, the Acting Gaming Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo, reflected on the Commission’s progress. He noted that when he first took office, the institution had only nine staff members and generated an annual revenue of GH¢159,000. However, through strategic efforts, revenue had surged to nearly GH¢20 million.
He also underscored the need for discipline among staff, cautioning against unauthorized visits to gaming centres and involvement in illegal activities.
To combat illegal gambling, Mr. Quainoo revealed plans to collaborate with service providers and the Cybersecurity Authority to block unauthorized gaming platforms.
He further highlighted the Commission’s influence beyond Ghana, mentioning its contributions to sports betting regulations in Nigeria and leadership in the Gaming Regulators African Forum.
Mr. Quainoo assured the Minister of the Commission’s dedication to strengthening regulatory measures, increasing revenue, and fostering responsible gaming practices.
