Ghana loses over GHc1 Billion annually to illegal lottery operations – NLA

The National Lottery Authority (NLA) has revealed that Ghana loses more than GH¢1 billion annually to illegal lottery operations, warning that the growing underground gambling market is depriving the country of significant revenue needed for national development.

The disclosure was made by the Director-General of the NLA, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, during the 2026 European Lotteries (EL) Industry Days held in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Addressing participants on the topic, “The Fight Against Illegal Gambling as a Significant Growing Issue in Africa,” Mr Abdul-Salam called for stronger collaboration among lottery operators, regulators and policymakers to curb the rising menace of illegal gambling across the continent.

He explained that the estimated annual loss of over GH¢1 billion, equivalent to approximately US$85 million, represents funds that could otherwise be invested in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, youth empowerment and other national development initiatives.

Mr Abdul-Salam noted that Ghana’s situation reflects a broader challenge across Africa, citing countries such as Benin and South Africa, where illegal gambling continues to drain substantial public revenue. According to him, South Africa alone is estimated to lose more than US$30 billion annually to illicit gaming activities.

He stressed that tackling illegal lottery operations requires coordinated and decisive action to curb revenue leakages while safeguarding the credibility of the regulated gaming industry.

To address the challenge, the NLA is implementing several measures, including the deployment of advanced technology to combat lottery fraud and criminal syndicates, the introduction of modern point-of-sale (POS) devices for licensed retailers, enhanced responsible gaming initiatives and proposed amendments to strengthen the National Lotto Act.

The Director-General also highlighted the Authority’s commitment to using Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes to boost public trust and confidence in the legal lottery industry.

“For every amount lost to an illegal lottery operator, a child is denied education, a community is denied a health facility, the youth lose opportunities, and the economy loses resources that could improve the lives of citizens,” Mr Abdul-Salam said.

Other speakers at the conference, including European Lotteries President Romana Girandon and African Lotteries Association Secretary-General Omar Skalli, also called for stronger international cooperation, improved regulatory frameworks and greater use of technology to tackle illegal gambling while promoting responsible gaming.

Held under the theme “Lotteries Bridging Continents,” the 2026 European Lotteries Industry Days brought together stakeholders from Europe and Africa to exchange best practices, explore digital innovations and strengthen partnerships to address emerging challenges within the gaming industry.

The National Lottery Authority has held Observer Member status in the European Lotteries organisation since June 2024.

Prince Antwi

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