The Gaming Commission of Ghana has mandated that all license gaming operators integrate biometric identity verification within 14 days.
Acting Commissioner Emmanuel Quainoo issued the directive, requiring immediate connection to the National Identification Authority (NIA) platform. The new rules necessitate biometric checks either fingerprint or facial recognition at two key points. when placing bets and during payouts.
This requirement applies to all gaming activities, including sports betting, casinos, and online platforms. Only Ghana Cards issued by the NIA will be accepted, blocking all other verification methods.
Quainoo set strict deadlines for compliance. Operators must confirm their integration plans within 14 days and complete full system testing within 30 days. Non-compliance will result in severe penalties, including regulatory sanctions, license suspension, and non-renewal. Quainoo emphasized that compliance will be part of operational audits.
This policy aims to combat underage gambling and fraud, enhance national security, and support responsible gaming. Biometric verification will help prevent impersonation and the use of false identities, while improving the integrity of financial systems, addressing vulnerabilities in the gaming sector that can lead to money laundering and illicit financial flows.
Additionally, linking participation to verified biometric identities will allow operators to track player behavior, enforce betting limits, and implement exclusion protocols for vulnerable individuals.
This directive aligns with Ghana’s national digital policy, which mandates the Ghana Card as the only legally recognized identity for civic and financial transactions. Backed by Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2111, the Ghana Card is designated as the sole biometric identity verification tool for all transactions requiring identity authentication in Ghana. No other form of identity verification manual or electronic will be accepted.
All licensed operators are directed to begin onboarding with the NIA immediately. The Commission expects confirmation of integration plans within 14 days and completion of biometric system testing within 30 days. Compliance will be actively monitored, and the outcomes will form part of each operator’s operational audit.
The Gaming Commission of Ghana is confident that all licensed operators will fully cooperate with the recently issued directive on biometric identity verification. This compliance is crucial for improving industry standards in line with international best practices and national development goals.
The Commission highlights the importance of this directive in promoting responsible gaming and enhancing the integrity of the gaming sector. By adhering to these regulations, operators will play a vital role in creating a safe and secure environment for all participants.
