Industry stakeholders call for stronger regulation to bolster Ghana's gaming economy
Stakeholders in Ghana’s gaming industry have called for a more robust regulatory framework to support the sector’s growth, ensure consumer protection, and eliminate unregulated operators that threaten its sustainability.
This consensus emerged as the key resolution at the Betway Regulatory Compliance Workshop held in Accra. Organised by global sports betting giant Betway, in collaboration with the Gaming Commission of Ghana, the event, themed “Strengthening Regulatory Foundations for a Sustainable and Inclusive Gaming Economy,” brought together operators, regulators, and legal experts to deliberate on critical compliance challenges and the future of gaming in Ghana.
In a welcome address, Rex Danquah, Country Manager (Operations) at Betway Ghana, emphasised the industry's transition from public scepticism to broad recognition as a legitimate economic contributor.
“From the early stages of this, when we used to go to the rural areas talking to the chiefs... they thought betting was an illegal thing,” he recalled. “But throughout the five years and adhering to strict protocols, they've actually appreciated the impact of what sports beFng is.”
Addressing the workshop, Dr. Kobby Boateng, President of Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operators(GHASBO), reiterated the associa>on’s commitment to regulatory reforms and welcomed
recent policy changes, including the removal of the conten>ous 10% withholding tax on gaming winnings. He also urged the government and regulatory bodies to work collaboratively with operators to resolve outstanding challenges.
Frederick Owusu of the Gaming Operators Associa>on of Ghana highlighted the interconnectedness between various gaming formats and the need for comprehensive compliance across the board.
“Regulation is quite important and very fundamental... the product you are delivering must make sure... the player is comfortable and... the operator is comfortable,” he said. He praised Betway’s continued investment in fostering dialogue and regulatory training, noting that “We are happy to represent ourselves here and to be part of this important discussion.”
Dr. Kweku Ainuson, Secretary General of GHASBO, echoed the need for inclusive and responsible regulation, particularly as the industry transitions online. He pointed out that digitalisation had helped curb underage betting through improved Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols, but new loopholes were emerging.
Dr. Ainuson further emphasised that responsible gaming must be a shared responsibility. “Responsible gaming is actually a shared responsibility amongst everyone,” he noted, adding that operators, regulators, and even mobile money service providers must work together to address exploitation and social risks.
Participants at the workshop expressed satisfaction with the opportunity to engage directly with regulators and operators on a common platform. Many encouraged organisers to replicate the forum across other regions of Ghana to expand industry knowledge and stakeholder participation nationwide.
The forum included representatives from the Gaming Commission of Ghana, Ghana Revenue Authority, Financial Intelligence Centre, Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Data Protection Commission, and the Ghana Bar Association and the media.