In a passionate address to Parliament, Sammi Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North Constituency and former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), emphasized the need for reforms in Ghana’s lottery sector.
Sammi Awuku, who resigned as NLA Director-General in January 2025 to focus on his parliamentary duties, presented a comprehensive statement on enhancing lottery proceeds and addressing challenges in the sector.
The Underrated Relevance of NLA’s Contribution
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Thursday, Samuel Awuku highlighted the significant revenue generated by the NLA, amounting to over 300 million cedis annually.
However, he noted that these funds are often lost in the country’s general expenditure, limiting their impact on targeted development.
The NLA was established by the National Lotto Act, 2006 (ACT 722), with the primary objective of conducting National Lotto to raise revenue for the nation.
Strategic Use of Lottery Proceeds
Sammi Awuku proposed that lottery proceeds be utilized to support specific projects in critical sectors like health, education, youth development, and others.
He cited examples from around the world, including Spain’s National Association for The Blind (ONCE), which supports 71,000 jobs and provides €230m annually for social support.
Similarly, the UK National Lottery has contributed over £80 million to support athletes and fund healthcare programs.
Responsible Gaming and Protecting Minors
The Akuapem North MP, Samuel
Awuku emphasized the need for responsible gaming practices, particularly in protecting minors from addiction.
He advocated for the establishment of social centres and advisory bureau centres to assist players battling addiction.
Illegal Lottery Operations
Sammi Awuku condemned the proliferation of illegal lottery operations, which deny the state millions of revenues annually.
He urged Parliament to amend the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722), to impose stricter punishments, including higher fines and longer jail terms, to deter illegal operators.
Tax Incentives
Sammi Awuku called for a clear-cut policy to stimulate growth in the lottery industry through tax incentives. He believes that these incentives will encourage illegally operated companies to register with the NLA and improve efficiency in the sector.
However, the Akuapem North MP, Sammi Awuku, emphasized that Ghana will benefit immensely from reforms in the lottery sector.
He urged Parliament to enact the necessary reforms to boost revenue, ensure that lottery proceeds serve their intended purpose, and improve the lives of Ghanaians.
However, the First Deputy Speaker who presides over the sitting commended Mr Awuku for the statement.
