Member of Parliament of Akuapem North Constituency, Sammi Awuku
Member of Parliament of Akuapem North Constituency, Sammi Awuku, has emphasised the need to optimise lottery proceeds to benefit the Ghanaian society.
“…. Mr Speaker, the National Lottery Authority generates significant revenue, amounting to over 300 million cedis annually,” he said.
“However, profits are expected to be funneled into the Consolidated Fund, limiting the impact these funds may have had on targeted development,” he stated.
Mr Awuku, also the immediate past Director General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), proposed amending the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722), to allow lottery proceeds to support specific projects in critical sectors like health, education, and youth development.
He cited examples from around the world, including Spain, Greece, Poland, and the United Kingdom, where lottery proceeds had made significant contributions to society.
He said: “Mr Speaker, I believe that if properly streamlined, we can do more with lottery proceeds in Ghana.”
“We can generate more revenue by implementing transparent processes while educating the public on the social benefits of lottery proceeds,” he added.
The Akuapem North legislator also highlighted the issue of illegal lottery operations, which he estimated had taken over 60 per cent of Ghana’s lottery market.
He urged Parliament to amend the National Lotto Act to impose stricter punishments, including higher fines and longer jail terms, to deter illegal operators.
Additionally, he called for the establishment of social centers to help individuals deal with anxieties, addictions, and social problems related to lottery gaming.
He also proposed introducing tax incentives to stimulate growth in the lottery industry and encourage compliance.
“Mr Speaker, Ghana will benefit immensely if we reform the management of lottery proceeds, strengthen regulations against illegal operations, and implement strategic incentives for the sector,” Mr Awuku said.
“These measures will not only boost revenue but also ensure that the lottery proceeds serve their intended purpose—improving the lives of Ghanaians,” he concluded on the floor of the House on Thursday.