The Minister of the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed, has charged the newly inaugurated Governing Board of the Gaming Commission of Ghana to work diligently to promote responsible gaming, curb underage participation and address the growing menace of illegal gaming operators, particularly in mining communities.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the 11-member Board at the Ministry’s Boardroom, the Hon. Muntaka reiterated the critical oversight role of the Board and urged its members to elevate the Commission’s performance to sub-regional excellence.

“Your appointment by His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama is a clear indication of the trust and confidence he has reposed in your ability to deliver on your mandate. You have a duty to help position the Gaming Commission of Ghana as the leading gaming regulator in sub-Saharan Africa,” the Minister stated.

He commended the Commission’s current leadership for the strides made in strengthening corporate governance and initiating key regulatory reforms.

“Noteworthy among these efforts are plans to construct an ultra-modern Head Office in Accra. From just three offices in Kasoa, Kumasi, and Tamale in 2016, the Commission has now expanded to Swedru, Ho, Ashanti Bekwai, and Sefwi Wiawso, with further plans to open new offices in Tarkwa, Koforidua, and Bolgatanga.”

The Minister also lauded the Commission’s commitment to staff development and public education, citing the recently concluded Purple Month campaign in May 2025 as a significant achievement.

“I am particularly pleased with the success of the maiden ‘Purple Month’ initiative, which engaged over 1500 young people from the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) and Accra Technical University (ATU) on the risks of gaming addiction and its connection to mental health. This effort received strong support from Members of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyemang-Rawlings (Korle Klottey) and Hon. John Dumelo (Ayawaso West Wuogon), as well as active participation from gaming operators across media platforms and campus events,” he said.

Accepting the mandate on behalf of the Board, the newly appointed Chairman, Mr. James Enu, Esq., who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Tema West, expressed gratitude to the President and the Minister for the opportunity to serve.

“We are grateful for the confidence reposed in us and assure you of our unwavering commitment to deliver on our responsibilities. We will work closely with the Games Commissioner and all key stakeholders to promote a vibrant and well-regulated gaming industry. It is encouraging that the Minister emphasized not just revenue generation, but also responsible gaming. As a Board, we intend to prioritize the development of policies that tackle irresponsible gaming practices,” Mr. Enu said.

He added that the 24-hour nature of gaming aligned perfectly with the President’s vision for a 24-hour economy.

“Gaming is a 24-hour activity, and that fits seamlessly into His Excellency’s 24-hour economy agenda. We are excited to play our part in supporting that vision,” he concluded.

Members of the new Governing Board include: Chairperson – Mr. James Enu, Esq. (MP, Tema West) and Members – Mr. Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo (Ag. Gaming Commissioner), Dr. Renee Aku Sitsofe Morhe (President’s Nominee), Dr. Bandim Lamangin Abed-Nego (MP, Bunkpurugu & President’s Nominee), Mr. Sedem Kweku Afenyo (MP, Amasaman & President’s Nominee), Prof. Kobby Mensah (Ministry of Tourism), Mr. Solomon Tetteh Mensah (Ministry of the Interior), ACP Dr. Dinam Kwasi Wisdom Zoiku (Ghana Police Service), Mr. Dela Kemevor (Ministry of Local Government & Rural Development), Mrs. Rosemary Nana Pokuaa Addo Parker (Ghana Revenue Authority).

The General Directorate for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ), which reports to the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption and the 2030 Agenda, held the constituent meeting of the recently renewed Responsible Gambling Advisory Council.

This renewal follows the expiration of the previous council’s term last May. The meeting was chaired by the Director General of Gaming Regulation, Mikel Arana, in his capacity as president of the Council.

As in previous compositions, the Responsible Gaming Advisory Council incorporates professionals and representatives from the General State Administration and the Autonomous Communities, experts in the scientific, healthcare and academic fields who carry out activities related to gambling disorders, and finally, representatives of institutions, organisations and associations related to the gambling sector and gambling operators.

Presentation of the Safe Gaming Programme 2026-2030

In addition to the constitutive session of the new composition, the meeting focused on the presentation, by the General Directorate of Gaming, of the proposal for the Safe Gaming Programme 2026-2030, a strategic document that establishes the lines of work for the next four years.

This document reflects three priorities: analysis and diagnosis of the current situation, prevention and promotion of safe gaming and participant protection.

The programme also includes six general objectives and 22 specific measures, which aim to promote new lines of work in collaboration with the Advisory Council.

The new Council members will have three months to provide input on the draft programme proposal submitted, with the goal of reaching a consensus and approving a final document to guide public policy on safe gaming at the next Advisory Council meeting.