Marrakesh: The Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Mohammed Abdul-Salam, has urged stakeholders in the global gaming industry to intensify efforts to combat illegal gambling, warning of its growing impact on economies and livelihoods.
According to Ghana Web, Abdul-Salam made the call while addressing over 200 participants from Europe and Africa at the 2026 European Lotteries (EL) Industry Days, held in Marrakesh, Morocco, from June 7 to 10. The event, themed 'Lotteries Bridging Continents', aims to deepen collaboration between Europe and Africa through the sharing of best practices, digital innovation, and strategies to tackle illegal activities while promoting responsible gaming.
Abdul-Salam highlighted the ongoing issue of illegal gambling draining national revenues and denying citizens opportunities for development. He specifically mentioned Ghana, Benin, and South Africa as countries heavily affected, with South Africa losing over $30 billion annually and Ghana losing more than GHS1 billion, approximately $85 million. These losses, he argued, undermine development efforts as funds that could support education, healthcare, and youth opportunities are diverted through illegal operations.
To address these challenges in Ghana, Abdul-Salam noted that the NLA is deploying technology to combat fraud and lottery syndicates, introducing advanced point-of-sale systems for retailers, and strengthening enforcement of responsible gaming regulations. He mentioned ongoing efforts to review the National Lotto Act to address regulatory gaps and leverage corporate social responsibility initiatives to support national development.
Abdul-Salam poignantly stated, '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 vital revenue.'
In her opening remarks, the President of European Lotteries, Romana Girandon, emphasized that responsible gaming remains central to lottery operations. She disclosed that EL is developing a new Responsible Gaming framework and commended members for contributing over £29 billion to society.
The Secretary-General of the African Lotteries Association, Omar Skalli, noted that Africa and Europe face similar challenges, and the platform provides an opportunity for dialogue and shared solutions. The programme is expected to conclude with a General Assembly meeting on June 10.