Ghana Gaming Commission Enforces Zoning Laws to Shield Young People

The Ghana Gaming Commission has unveiled a strategy to regulate betting companies situated near schools and places of worship, citing concerns about their potential effects on minors and vulnerable populations.

During a recent familiarization tour, Commissioner Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo emphasized the Commission’s dedication to enforcing zoning regulations within the gaming industry. He warned that facilities found in violation of these rules would face severe consequences.

According to a 2023 survey by TGM Research, 41.7% of Ghanaians engaged in sports betting over the past year, positioning Ghana among the top four African nations in terms of betting participation.

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Ghana’s gambling sector is expanding rapidly, currently featuring approximately 25 licensed sports betting operators, 12 online casinos, and 24 brick-and-mortar casinos overseen by the Gaming Commission.

“In line with our mandate, gaming operators cannot establish facilities close to schools and religious institutions. If a proposed location is deemed too near to these sites, we will deny the license application. Our objective is to keep schoolchildren from being lured into gambling, which could jeopardize their education… We are committed to taking decisive action against illegal gambling operations and ensuring rigorous enforcement of the law,” stated the Commissioner.

Moreover, the Commission is proactively addressing gambling addiction. Quainoo revealed plans to partner with psychologists to offer support to individuals facing challenges related to gambling.