The government has called on the Gaming Commission of Ghana to ensure that the rapid expansion of the gaming industry contributes meaningfully to the country’s broader economic transformation agenda.
Speaking at the launch of the Gaming Commission’s 20th anniversary celebrations in Accra, Presidential Advisor on the Economy Seth Terkper said the regulator must focus not only on industry growth, but also on strengthening regulation, improving revenue mobilization, and promoting responsible gaming practices.
The anniversary event, held at Labadi Beach Hotel, brought together representatives from the security services, Members of Parliament, government officials, and stakeholders in the gaming industry. The programme included musical performances by the renowned Harmonious Chorale, under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Innovating Our Future in a Digital World.”
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Terkper stressed the need for the gaming sector’s growth to align with the government’s wider economic transformation objectives. “The task before the gaming commission is therefore not to simply manage growth, but to shape it and ensure that the expansion of the industry translates into measurable national benefits, strengthens investor confidence, and operates within clear standards that serve the youth and also sustain long-term economic stability.”
Deputy Minister for the Interior Ebenezer Okletey Terlarbi also raised concerns about the increasing presence of illegal online gaming platforms in Ghana. He said the trend poses a major challenge to effective regulation and responsible gaming efforts.
“Government is particularly concerned about the rise in illegal online platforms, the exposure of young people to gambling content, the growing social implications of addiction, and the potential of using gaming platforms for illicit financial activity. These concerns require stronger collaboration between the Commission, security agencies, fintech companies, and gaming operators.”
Acting Gaming Commissioner Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo highlighted steps the Commission is taking to address gaming addiction, especially among young people. He said the Commission is intensifying public education and strengthening regulatory enforcement to promote responsible gaming.
He added that responsible gaming sensitisation in schools remains a key priority, with programmes already delivered in schools including Presbyterian Boys’ Senior High School, Kwabenya Senior High School, West Africa Senior High School, Accra Academy, Ebenezer Senior High School, Achimota Senior High School, St. Mary’s Senior High School, Accra High School, Apam Secondary School, Swedru Senior High School, KNUST Senior High School, and Tamale Senior High School.
He noted that the sensitization programme is ongoing, with about 15 more schools to be covered in Accra, and that the Commission has reached parts of Greater Accra, Central, Ashanti, and the Northern Regions. The event concluded with the unveiling of the Gaming Commission’s 20th anniversary logo.
