GFA President Kurt Okraku said the promotion is part of efforts to ensure supporters remain at the heart of Ghana’s World Cup journey.

“This is the second time after we failed to qualify in 2018, and we are back to where we belong in world football. Having made it through the hard work of the technical team and the playing body, we at the GFA want to think about the entire country. And for that reason, we cannot go alone and leave the fans behind. In partnership with Rambell and NLA, we have the opportunity to go to the World Cup with the fans,” he stated.

Okraku added that the partnership ensures fans can feel part of the team’s journey. “I want a situation where the players sing the national anthem, and the players will feel the presence of the fans,” he said.

NLA Director-General Mohammed Abdul Salam assured participants of fairness and transparency in the promotion. “We at the NLA are committed to providing transparency, and we are in to ensure whatever we say, we deliver. We believe that Ghanaians who participate in this game will witness this transparency,” he said.

Representing Rambell, Rockson Kondey explained the mechanics and scale of the fan experience. He revealed that 220 supporters will be flown to the World Cup and outlined the participation process.

“Today marks a historic moment for our game. We believe that every Ghanaian deserves a chance to participate, win, and watch the World Cup. With just GHC20, every Ghanaian can win. Fans can join the raffle by dialling 899889#,” he said.

Ghana secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, by finishing top of Group I with 25 points and remaining undefeated.

The Black Stars will learn their group phase opponents on December 5.

READ ALSO

Black Stars on the right track under Otto Addo – Kwasi Sibo

Super Clash: Hearts of Oak will make strong statement against Kotoko – Opare Addo

This was during a courtesy call by the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, and her team on Wednesday, 22 October, on Mr. Abdul-Salam and his Deputy, Eric Yeboah Wadie, to discuss potential areas of collaboration aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery.

Highlighting the urgent need to upgrade health facilities nationwide, Obuobia Darko-Opoku pointed out that many hospitals operate under dire conditions, lacking essential diagnostic and treatment equipment such as MRI and CT scan machines, dialysis units, and breast screening facilities.

She explained that the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, established under Act 114, has begun a comprehensive needs assessment of all six teaching hospitals and ten regional hospitals in Ghana, and the findings reveal significant gaps in equipment and infrastructure that require urgent attention.

“Our health facilities are on their knees, and we can no longer pretend about it. When you visit some of these hospitals, you leave wondering how our healthcare system is surviving.

“The Government alone cannot carry the burden. We are inviting corporate institutions to partner with us in retooling our hospitals so that together we can make a lasting difference.” She said.

She urged the NLA to consider supporting specific hospital projects as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, emphasizing that such partnerships would have a lasting impact on healthcare delivery in Ghana.

In response, the Director-General of the NLA, Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam, commended the Ghana Medical Trust Fund for its commitment to improving healthcare and assured them of the NLA’s willingness to collaborate with them.

He stated that the Authority’s leadership is open to exploring mechanisms for regular contributions to the Fund as part of its CSR framework.

“I believe strongly that if we treat healthcare funding as a shared responsibility, we can achieve great things together. The idea of supporting the Ghana Medical Trust Fund aligns perfectly with our CSR objectives. We could even consider adopting one project at a time and see it through to completion.” Mr. Abdul-Salam said.

Mr. Abdul-Salam further noted that partnerships like this reinforce the broader national agenda of using proceeds from the lottery to support good causes and improve the well-being of Ghanaians.

The Deputy Director-General of NLA, Mr. Wadie, expressed excitement at the partnership and reiterated the Authority’s preparedness to support initiatives that make a difference in society.

The NLA and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund share the common goal of contributing to national development and improving the lives of Ghanaians.

Together, they can ensure that essential health facilities receive support while the lives of numerous individuals are improved across the country.

Source: AdomOnline

READ ALSO:

• Kade chief steps down after 21 years
• Bawumia’s conduct shows he’s bound to win – NPP Dormaa West Chairman
• Rashid Ibrahim elected 59th NUGS President

In a detailed rebuttal, the Akuapem North MP expressed disappointment that despite granting an interview to the outlet on August 18, 2025, the resulting publication was a “lopsided story that omits the significant impact made by the Foundation.”

He argued that the report’s central claim is based on a misunderstanding of the NLA’s structure.

Awuku provided crucial context, explaining that the NLA Caritas Lottery Platform, established under the National Lotto Act, is the revenue-generating arm.

“The NLA Caritas Platform has Corporate Ghana as its primary stakeholder,” he stated.

Sponsorships for events like the Africa Prosperity Dialogue and Ghana CEO Summit were, therefore, Marketing Department initiatives to attract key industry players.

“The association with these brands brought several benefits to the NLA, including increased brand awareness and visibility, which helped the Authority pitch its brand to industry leaders for stakeholder collaborations, thereby generating revenue for the Caritas Lottery Platform, which in turn, funds the Good Causes Foundation,” Awuku explained.

He revealed that this strategy grew the Caritas Platform from a negligible kitty to generating over GHS 11 million between 2021 and 2024.

He framed the report as “mischief,” designed to mislead the public by blurring the lines between essential revenue-generation activities and the charitable disbursements they enable.

According to the NLA Director-General, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, the move is aimed at sanitising the sector and curbing the activities of unlicensed operators who continue to flood the market.

“We want to ensure that people who are out there serving customers are doing so because they are legitimately allowed by law,” he explained.

“There are too many people engaged in the sale of lottery without the appropriate mandate, and it is difficult to constantly chase after those who flout the law.”

The directive follows worrying disparities uncovered in data submitted by private lotto agents. Abdul-Salam revealed that when the NLA requested figures on the number of writers under these agents, the projections did not match the revenue returns being declared.

“We asked the private lotto agents to provide data on the number of writers they have. If you use those projections against what they send as returns in terms of what they make, there is a huge disparity,” he said.

This mismatch, he noted, raises concerns about accountability, revenue leakages, and the overall integrity of the lottery system. By ensuring that only licensed agents operate, the NLA hopes to restore public confidence and protect both players and state revenue.

The initiative, however, is expected to face resistance from some quarters, particularly unregistered agents who may be forced out of business.

But the Authority insists the exercise is necessary to create a fair and transparent space for operators and to prevent the exploitation of unsuspecting customers.

Source: Jacqueline Ansomah Yeboah

ALSO READ:

This is to enable them to carry out a skills training program aimed at equipping Persons with Disabilities and Affiliates with basic entrepreneurial and employable skills.

The Director-General of NLA, Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam, in presenting the cheque of GHS 100,000, commended Blind Support for initiating this project to support persons with disabilities and help keep them off the streets.

“This initiative by Blind Support is a laudable one. The individuals undertaking this project are men of honour and high repute, which helps to dispel the impression that persons with disabilities are bound to the streets as beggars.  The initiative will help ensure that they are equipped with productive and industry-relevant skills, providing them with sustainable employment opportunities,’’ he said.

Citing Section 2 (3) of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722), which mandates the NLA “to operate a lotto with the object of providing care and protection for the physically or mentally afflicted, the needy, the aged, orphans and destitute children,” Mr. Abdul-Salam, said the NLA will continue to partner with Blind Support to enable them expand this project.

Anthony Gyening, the Project Coordinator of Blind Support and a lecturer at the University of Education, Winneba, recounted the difficult living conditions faced by persons with disabilities.

He expressed sincere gratitude to the NLA for their generous donation, highlighting the significant and positive impact it will have on the lives of the beneficiaries.

He also thanked the Good Cause Foundation for its support over the years and looked forward to a continued partnership.

Mr. Abdul-Salam, the Director-General of NLA, also presented a cheque for Fifty Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 50,000) to the National Youth Authority (NYA) in support of their upcoming National Youth Festival, aligning with the Youth and Sports Development Pillar of the Good Causes Foundation to promote youth development.

The NLA Good Causes Foundation is the Authority’s charity arm, spearheading its corporate social responsibility.

The Foundation operates on four pillars: Health, Education, Youth and Sports Development, and Arts and Culture.

The Health Pillar focuses on providing infrastructure support, training mental health workers, supplying hospitals, and expanding nationwide medical outreach services for specific ailments.

The Education Pillar focuses on providing educational support to brilliant but financially disadvantaged students. NLA also supports educational institutions with the necessary logistics and sponsors programs and projects that meet the Foundation’s objectives.

The Youth and Sports Development Pillar encompasses enhancing the capacity of young people and supporting sporting activities, with a focus on promoting lesser-known sports. It also provides technical and skills support to SMES owned by young individuals to encourage innovation.

Special emphasis is also placed on persons with disabilities and those with special needs who may be interested in entrepreneurship.

The Arts and Culture Pillar supports projects that safeguard and protect Ghanaian cultural events and educational programs.

The NLA Governing Board also determines discretionary projects that the Authority undertakes annually.

The Ghana Business Leaders Excellence Awards, instituted and organised by Top Brass Ghana, recognise excellence and honour individuals, corporate institutions, and entrepreneurs whose hard work and exceptional leadership have contributed to the nation’s economic growth and development.

The Awards Ceremony, held to commemorate Ghana’s 65th Anniversary of Republican Status, was themed “National Development Through Dynamic Business Leadership.”

Over 25 leaders, institutions, and entrepreneurs from across various industries were honoured on the night for their distinguished achievements.

Key among them was the Director-General of NLA, Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam, who received the Gold Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Ghana’s economic development in the category of National Revenue Mobilisation (Lottery).

Mr. Abdul-Salam was also recognised for his elevation to the exalted position of Vice-President of the African Lotteries Association (ALA).

Mr. Abdul-Salam expressed his gratitude to the organisers for the recognition, attributing the success to the collective effort and unwavering dedication of the Management and Staff of the National Lottery Authority.

He stated that the NLA will introduce reforms aimed at improving its operations and boosting revenue for national development.

While creating opportunities for its patrons to play and win, the Authority remains committed to supporting the needy, desolate, and physically challenged through the pillars (Health, Education, Youth and Sports Development, and Arts and Culture) of its Good Causes Foundation across the country, as mandated by Section 2(3) of the NLA’s National Lotto Act, 2006, (Act 722).” – Mr Abdul-Salam said.

Other awardees include The Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Ltd. for the manufacturing sector, Atwima Kwanwoma Rural Bank Plc for the Rural banking sector, Azmera Restaurant and Jofel Catering Services for Catering and Hospitality, and Robert and Sons Ghana Ltd., among many others.

President of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Stephane Miezan, who chaired the event, congratulated the awardees on their success and challenged them to develop innovative and bold solutions that would promote entrepreneurship and drive business growth, helping Ghana compete with other countries.

The awards, instituted and organised by Top Brass Ghana, recognise excellence and honour individuals, institutions, and entrepreneurs whose leadership and hard work have significantly contributed to Ghana’s economic growth and development.

This year’s event, held to commemorate the country’s 65th Anniversary of Republican Status, was themed “National Development Through Dynamic Business Leadership.”

More than 25 leaders, institutions, and entrepreneurs were honoured for their achievements across various sectors.

Among the top honorees was Mr. Abdul-Salam, who received the Gold Award for his outstanding contribution to national revenue mobilisation in the lottery sector. He was also celebrated for his recent elevation to the position of Vice-President of the African Lotteries Association (ALA).

“I am deeply grateful for this honour. It is a reflection of the collective effort and unwavering dedication of the Management and Staff of the National Lottery Authority,” he said.

He added that the NLA is poised to introduce reforms to enhance its operations and boost revenue for national development.

While creating opportunities for Ghanaians to play and win, he noted that the Authority remains committed to its Good Causes Foundation—supporting the needy, desolate, and physically challenged through initiatives in health, education, youth and sports development, and arts and culture—as mandated by Section 2(3) of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722).

Other awardees included Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Ghana Ltd. (Manufacturing), Atwima Kwanwoma Rural Bank Plc (Rural Banking), Azmera Restaurant and Jofel Catering Services (Catering and Hospitality), and Robert and Sons Ghana Ltd.

Chairperson of the event, President of the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Stephane Miezan, congratulated all awardees and encouraged them to develop bold and innovative solutions to promote entrepreneurship and business growth, positioning Ghana to compete globally.

Source: Citinews

ALSO READ:

• Ashanti Region: Police launch probe into fatal shooting at Asawase

• IGP vows swift justice over fatal Asawase shootings

The Director-General, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, presented the cheque to the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, who was accompanied by the Municipal Chief Executive of Ketu South Municipal Assembly, Nicholas Kwabla Worclachie, along with some assembly members.

Mr. Abdul-Salam emphasized the NLA’s swift response to the disaster, stating that the organization, through its Good Causes Foundation, acted promptly to help alleviate the plight of the victims.

“We have seen the devastation the tidal waves have caused in these communities, and that is why when the Volta Regional Coordinating Council, through the Regional Minister, appealed to the NLA for support, we prioritized it. We believe our contribution will provide immediate relief to these displaced families and support them in this time of need.”

The Municipal Chief Executive of the Ketu South Municipal Assembly, Mr. Worclachie, expressed profound gratitude to the NLA for the kind gesture, which will undoubtedly make a substantial impact on the lives of the affected people.

According to the Volta Regional Minister, Mr. Gunu, the NLA is the first institution to respond to their call for help among many. He thanked Mr. Abdul-Salam and management for the support.

He further explained that the victims of the tidal waves have had their economic livelihoods cut off and are living in tents; thus, the funds will be used to provide much-needed shelter, food, and clothing to the displaced victims of Agavedzi, Asalakope, and Amunitsi, addressing their immediate needs.

The NLA Good Causes Foundation is the Authority’s charity arm, spearheading its corporate social responsibility initiatives. The Foundation operates on four pillars: Health, Education, Youth and Sports Development, and Arts and Culture.

It is hinged on Section 2(3) of the National Lotto Act, which mandates the NLA to conduct, as part of the operation of National Lotto, a lottery to provide care and protection for the physically or mentally afflicted, the needy, the aged, orphans, and destitute children.

The seven-member Governing Board comprises the Technical Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, Frederick Amissah, as Chairman.

Mr Amissah is an economist with several years of experience in policy analysis, sovereign debt, structured finance and risk management.

He is also an expert in public financial management, macroeconomic analysis and financial sector program management.

The members of the Governing Board are the Director General of NLA, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, the Director, Revenue Policy Division at the Ministry of Finance, Edward Abrokwah, a representative of the Ministry of Interior, Doreen Panyin Annan, the Solicitor-General and the Office of the Attorney General representative, Helen Akpene Awo Ziwu, the Member of Parliament for Dome Kwabenya, Faustina Elikplim Akurugu and Gerald Baffour Awuah Bonsu, the President’s nominees on the Board.

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Thomas Nyarko, addressing the Governing Board after administering the Oaths of Office and Secrecy, emphasized the crucial role of the Board in revenue generation.

He urged them to complement the government’s efforts by generating revenue to address the developmental needs of the Ghanaian people in line with the mandate in the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722).

He also urged them to increase competition in NLA’s operations across its value chain in accordance with the government’s agenda to create jobs and raise revenue.

On behalf of the Governing Board, the Chairman, Mr. Federick Amissah, expressed gratitude to President Mahama and the Finance Minister, Hon. Cassiel Ato Forson, for their appointments.

He said the Governing Board, with a firm commitment to integrity, humility, and diligence, would boost revenue, establish partnerships with key stakeholders, and build a world-class lottery industry.

Mr. Amissah also said the Governing Board will work closely with Management to enhance Staff welfare and ensure industrial harmony among key industry players.

He advises against falling prey to fraudsters who claim to possess leaked winning numbers in exchange for money, a deceitful practice that has victimized many.

Mr. Abdul Salam made these remarks in Kwahu, Nkwatia, where the NLA held its Easter Community Draw on Saturday, 19^th April.

“A lot of the time, these scammers use the images of Management and Staff on social media, assuring unsuspecting people that they can make them rich in connivance with officials of NLA, and have defrauded several people through this narrative.  If anybody tells you they can make you rich, consider it like choosing to stake your car number. Nobody can manipulate the numbers or find a way to make you win. The National Lottery Authority’s games are meant for development and are purely a game of chance. “Mr. Abdul-Salam said.

The NLA organizes Community Draws periodically to bring the lottery Draw process closer to the public and foster community engagement.

Mr. Abdul-Salam emphasized the transparency of Community Draws. “These events, where the NLA’s Draw machines are relocated from the Authority’s Brennan Hall to a community, serve as a platform for the public to witness the Draw Process firsthand, dispelling any misconceptions about the NLA’s Draws being manipulated”. – Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam.

Mr. Abdul-Salam also urged patrons to share the obligation of responsible gaming by not overindulging to prevent addiction and ensuring that minors are not involved in playing the game.

The NLA Director General thanked the Managing Director of Prudential Bank, Mr. Bernard Appiah Gyebi, the Kwahumanhene, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III, Nkwatiahene and Kwahu Sananahene, Nana Boamah Ayiripe III, Aburihene, Otoobour Djan Kwasi II, Dodowahene, Okukrubuor Nene Teye Kwasi Agyeman and Abotakyihene, Nana Kwame Sakyi Ababio III and their wing chiefs for gracing the occasion to witness the National Weekly Lotto Draw.

NLA’s National Weekly Lotto Draw was presented by ace Presenters, Akwasi Boadi Akrobeto, Robert Nana Kodua, Wofa K and NLA’s in-house presenter, Nancy Awuradwoa Darko, who entertained and interacted with the crowd that had thronged the venue to observe the Draw.

The winning numbers for the National Weekly Lotto Draw were 44, 27, 48, 85 and 90. Patrons who answered questions and others who won received souvenirs.

 NLA Good Causes Foundation donates items to chiefs of Kwahu

In line with tradition, as a gesture of solidarity, and in accordance with the Arts and Culture Pillar of the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation, a team, led by the Deputy Director-General, Mr. Eric Yeboah Wadie, presented items to the Kwahumanhene, Daasebre Akuamoah Boateng III and Nkwatiahene, Nana Boamah Ayiripe III., in support of the Easter festivities. The items included packs of water, cartons of drinks, and cash donations.

The chiefs thanked the Deputy Director-General and the Management of NLA for honouring them by celebrating Easter with the Kwahu people and bringing the Draw to their community.

They also congratulated Mr. Eric Yeboah Wadie, a native of Kwahu, on his appointment as Deputy Director-General. They wished him success in this new role and urged him to conduct himself creditably to bring honour to his community.

The Arts and Culture Pillar of the NLA Good Causes Foundation celebrates and supports projects safeguarding and protecting Ghanaian cultural events and educational programs.

Mr. Abdul-Salam’s appointment as Vice President of ALA follows the resignation of the immediate past Director-General of NLA, Hon Samuel Awuku, who was elected Vice President of ALA on March 8, 2024.

On the appointment of Mr Mohammed Abdul-Salam as the new Director-General of NLA, the ALA Board of Directors unanimously approved Mr Abdul Salam to the Executive Committee to serve Hon Awuku’s remaining term of office.

At an Online ALA Executive Meeting, the president, Mr Dramane Coulibaly, and members of the Executive Committee congratulated the NLA Director-General and welcomed him into the Executive Committee.

Subsequently, Mr Abdul Salam paid a working visit to the NLA’s sister lottery body, the Loterie Nationale De Cote D’Ivoire (LONACI), where he was warmly received by the Director-General, Mr Dramane Coulibay, who also serves as the ALA President.

In his new role as Vice President, Mr Abdul-Salam expressed gratitude for the appointment and the longstanding relationship between NLA and LONACI.

He pledged to build on the work of his predecessor, Hon. Samuel Awuku, and strengthen the ties between the two lottery bodies.

“I am most grateful to the President of ALA and the Executive Committee for my elevation as ALA Vice President. I pledge to work hand in hand with them to address our member bodies’ concerns and fulfill the Association’s goals,”  Mr Abdul-Salam said.

The NLA Director-General said he was happy to learn of some of the best practices that have boosted revenue for LONACI and sustained the business, which he plans to inculcate into NL’s operations.

Mr. Dramane Coulibaly expressed immense excitement at Mr Abdul-Salam’s visit and said it was a testament to the excellent relationship between NLA and LONACI.

He enlightened him on the intricacies of dealing with illegal lottery operators and pledged to give him all the support he needed to succeed in his role.

Mr Abdul-Salam was also a guest at a ceremony for LONACI to receive its WLA Level 2 Certification in Responsible Gaming.

According to Mr. Coulibaly, this certification would help them identify the gaps and fulfill their obligations regarding responsible gaming.

“The certificate we have received today is proof, if proof were needed, of our commitment to respecting the principles of Responsible Gaming, as laid down by the World Lottery Association (WLA), and attests to the fact that LONACI has successfully undergone a critical self-assessment to identify the challenges it will have to meet to comply with all the principles of Responsible Gaming,” Mr Dramane Coulibaly said.

The WLA Level 2 Certificate was presented to LONACI by the Permanent Secretary to ALA, Mr. Driss Hamdoune, who said this recognition illustrates LONACI’s commitment to ensuring a safer, more transparent and more responsible gaming environment.

Mr. Abdul-Salam congratulated the LONACI for this achievement and wished them well as they prepared to begin the process for Level 3 Certification.

Accompanied by Ms. Jacqueline Hindjou, First Secretary for Political and Economic Affairs at the Namibian High Commission, Dr. Shimaneni was welcomed by the Director-General of the NLA, Mr. Mohammed Abdul-Salam, along with the Authority’s Executive Management team.

During the visit, Dr. Shimaneni highlighted that the newly established Namibian Lotteries Board shares several operational similarities with the NLA.

The NLA, as a pioneer in the lottery industry within the subregion, served as a valuable model for the Namibian board’s development.

The visit aimed to gain insights into the NLA’s operational framework and seek guidance for the board’s launch.

Mr. Abdul-Salam expressed enthusiasm about hosting the Namibian delegation and emphasized the NLA’s commitment to assisting them in establishing their lottery board.

He also indicated that the NLA team would be available for ongoing discussions to support the Namibian board’s formation.

The NLA team conducted a comprehensive presentation, engaging in detailed discussions with the Namibian visitors regarding the Authority’s history, operational structure, processes, and corporate governance principles underpinning its establishment.

ALSO READ:

Sam George confident of approval even in secret ballot

Ablakwa renting Airport Hills residence; he doesn’t own it – Finali…

Ofosu Nkansah calls out NPP members using inaccurate 38% figure

On January 15, President John Mahama appointed the former Northern Regional Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to the role. However, the Muslim community expressed apprehension in a press release, citing Islamic teachings that prohibit gambling, betting, and lottery activities.

“Intoxicants and games of chance are only an infamy of Satan’s handiwork. Leave it aside that you may succeed” (Quran 5:90), the statement emphasized.

Additionally, the community referenced a hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which condemns games of chance, describing such acts as disobedience to Allah.

The community respectfully urged President Mahama to reconsider the appointment, stating, “This decision appears to be a direct challenge to Islamic principles and may undermine the goodwill you have fostered among the Muslim community.” They also called on Muslim leaders and clerics to urgently engage with the president to address the issue, emphasizing that reversing the appointment would uphold Islamic values and protect the youth from being influenced to engage in gambling activities.

In response to the criticism, Mr. Abdul-Salam defended his acceptance of the position, asserting that his role reflects Ghana’s secular governance structure.

“I am a practising Muslim. I’m not just a Muslim; I am a practising Muslim, but I’m not a fanatic leader. Neither am I an extremist,” he said.

The Kekeli Muslim Community concluded its statement by appealing to President Mahama to act swiftly, emphasizing that reconsidering the appointment would strengthen trust and cooperation between the Muslim community and the government.

READ ALSO:

• Coalition urges Mahama to extend ‘Operation Recover All Loots’ nationwide
• AngloGold Ashanti Schools temporarily closed amid security concerns in Obuasi
• 8 dead in clash between small-scale miners and soldiers in Obuasi

Mr. Awuku disclosed this in an interview on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem on Monday.

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Akuapem North Parliamentary candidate explained that the delay is due to the modalities involved in the implementation.

“NLA is government-owned, and we pay into the consolidated fund after we deduct our operational costs and CSOs. Already, we are battling illegal operators.

“So, if you tell us to tax 10% of the win, illegal operators may end up collapsing your business because they may claim they pay out full winnings,” he stated.

The government introduced the tax in April 2023, which applies to both domestic and overseas companies.

The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) announced on December 23, 2023, that the implementation will start on Monday, January 1, 2024. This was following a six-month preparation period given to NLA and Private Lotto Operators (PLOs).

However, Mr. Awuku noted that many countries that attempted to implement such policies failed, hence there was a need for extensive stakeholder engagement to ensure sustainability.

“The Czech Republic, Jamaica, and many other countries tried but failed. So, we met with the GRA and the Ministry of Finance to decide on the way forward, and NLA proposed that we could broaden our net and regularize more illegal operators.

“So, even if there is a deduction, it may not be 10%, or the lotto operators could pay a certain flat rate to support the government because they are also profit-making companies. But we couldn’t conclude our discussions because of the election,” he stated.

The NLA expressed confidence that the next NPP government, led by Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, will fulfill its pledge to scrap the tax.

ALSO READ:

• Majority Leader justifies 10% withholding tax on betting, lottery winnings

• 10% withholding tax on lottery and betting winnings starts from Monday January 1, 2024

From its first Draw, held on 29th September 1962, with a first prize sum of 5,000 pounds, to current draws where lucky players win sums of 200,000 cedis, the NLA has not stopped giving to its patrons.

At the core of this excitement is the room where these fortunes are made, and lives are transformed: the NLA’s Draw Studio, Brennan Hall.

Constructed about thirty years ago under the leadership of Colonel Martin Gbikpi, who served as Director-General of the then Department of National Lotteries (DNL) from 1993-2,001, the Brennan Hall is the nerve centre of the Authority’s business, where the numbers are drawn daily.

Following a desire to leave the NLA in a better state than he found it and give the NLA a state-of-the-art Draw Studio by the standards of the World Lottery Association (WLA), the Director General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, with the support of the NLA Governing Board, began the refurbishment of Brennan Hall.

The project was undertaken in two phases. The first phase, which covered remodelling the Draw Studio stage, was completed in June 2023 and commissioned in August 2023 with newly procured state-of-the-art draw machines.

The project’s second phase covered a complete overhaul of the Draw Studio, including furnishing, newly installed state-of-the-art equipment and fixtures, new washrooms, and total branding, transforming it into an ultra-modern Draw Studio.

The Brennan Hall was commissioned on Friday, October 18th, 2024, by the NLA Board Chairman, Mr. Gary Nimako Marfo, Esq.  He was assisted by some Board Members, the Director-General of NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku, the Deputy Director General, Ms. Anna Horma Miezah and the Group Chairman of KGL, Mr. Alex Dadey.

The NLA Board Chairman, Mr. Gary Nimako Marfo, Esq. commended the Group Chairman of KGL, Mr. Alex Dadey, for partnering with the NLA to execute this project, which is a testament to what Public-Private Partnerships can do.  He also thanked Eloctroland Ghana for their support.

Applauding the NLA for a beautiful edifice, the Group Chairman of KGL, Mr. Alex Dadey commended the leadership of the Board Chairman, Mr. Marfo, and the Director General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, which he believes has provided the blueprint for this partnership. This allows KGL to give a huge chunk of its profit to the government for national development.

This is the first time the Brennan Hall has undergone a significant facelift since its establishment about three decades ago.

The Brennan Hall is named after the NLA’s first Director-General, Mr. William Francis Brennan, a Maltese National who was seconded to the DNL by the Maltese Government to help Ghana establish its lottery upon the request of Ghana’s first Prime Minister, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.

Speaking at the Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards in Accra, he said “ Let me reassure the public that the NLA is committed to ensuring fairness in the industry”

Board Chairman of the NLA, Gary Nimako-Marfo called for a merger between the NLA and the Gaming Commission to streamline regulatory processes.

He also mentioned that the NLA had issued licenses to 28 lottery companies whose licenses had expired earlier this year while warning about the negative impact of unlicensed and illegal companies on the industry, stating, “Their operations are harming the industry in Ghana.”

Meanwhile, Alex Apau Dadey, Board Chairman of the Ghana Investment Promotion Council (GIPC), advised gaming and lottery operators to innovate beyond their industries and collaborate to drive growth and job creation.

Focus on ethical and responsible gaming
Deputy Attorney General, Diana Asonaba Dapaah, representing the Attorney General, emphasized the importance of ethical and responsible gaming practices.
She highlighted the awards as a way to showcase individuals and companies that exemplify these values, serving as a benchmark for the industry.

Applause for Award Winners
CEO of Syndicated Entertainment Solutions, Manuella Frempomaa Ansong, congratulated the award winners, acknowledging their significant contributions to the gaming and lottery sectors.
“You have made an indelible mark on your respective industries, and we are here to applaud your achievements,” she said.

Full list of award winners
Gaming Operator of the Year – Millionaires Casino Ghana Limited
Private Lottery Operator of the Year – Alpha Lotto Limited
Responsible Gaming Initiative Award – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited)
Responsible Lottery Initiative Award – Rand Lottery Co. Ltd
Innovation in Gaming Technology – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited)
Innovation in Lottery Technology – Wulucky Ghana Limited
Customer Service Excellence (Gaming) – Golden Dragon Casino Ghana Limited
Customer Service Excellence (Lottery) – Blue Star Hi-Tech
Marketing Campaign of the Year (Gaming) – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited)
Marketing Campaign of the Year (Lottery) – Alpha Lotto Limited
Regulatory Compliance Award (Gaming) – Wingatebet Ltd.
Regulatory Compliance Award (Lottery) – Rand Lottery Co. Ltd.
Lifetime Achievement Award (Gaming) – Hon. Peter Mireku (CEO, Gaming Commission of Ghana)
Lifetime Achievement Award (Lottery) – Dr. George Gyamfi (Industry Expert, NCA)
Non-Corporate Lotto Marketing Company of the Year – Ms. Mercy Emefa Avorgbedor
Corporate Lotto Marketing Company of the Year – Mr. Francis Opoku (Money Zone Co. Ltd)
Chief Executive Officer of the Year (Gaming) – Ms. Sharon Close (CEO of Millionaires Casino Ghana Ltd)
Chief Executive Officer of the Year (Lottery) – Kenneth Kwame Asare, CEO of Alpha Lotto Ltd)
Special Recognition Award (Gaming Commission of Ghana) – Peter Mireku
Special Recognition Award (NLA) – Samuel Awuku

Speaking at the inaugural Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards 2024 in Accra, he highlighted the NLA’s role as a regulator and vowed to uphold industry standards.

The awards, organised by Syndicated Entertainment Solution Limited in partnership with the Gaming Commission of Ghana and the NLA, aimed to celebrate excellence within the gaming and lottery sectors.

The event recognised key players for their innovation, customer service, and adherence to best practices.

“I expect maximum cooperation from our operators as we embark on this journey. Together with our co-regulators, we will champion reforms to enhance the industry,” Mr Marfo said.

He praised Syndicated Entertainment Solution for using the platform to celebrate industry players, especially operators and retailers who have contributed significantly over the years.

Mr Marfo also highlighted the industry’s impact on society, noting that it has sustained families and supported numerous government initiatives.

He pointed out that globally, lotteries have contributed trillions to social causes, with the World Lottery Association reporting over $83 billion dedicated to good causes in 2022.

“In Ghana, we are doing our part as members of the World Lottery Association to contribute to worthy causes,” Mr Marfo added, commending operators for their cooperation with regulators.

He urged operators to focus not only on profits but also on ensuring the welfare of their patrons.

She noted that the awards served as motivation for the industry to maintain ethical practices and promote national development.

NLA Director-General Samuel Awuku applauded Syndicated Entertainment Solution for organizing the event and shining a light on the unsung heroes of the industry.

“To our operators, retailers, agents, and everyone in the value chain, your tireless service has sustained the industry. We celebrate you today,” he said.

The awards are Gaming Operator of the Year – Millionaires Casino Ghana Limited,  Private Lottery Operator of the Year – Alpha Lotto Limited, Responsible Gaming Initiative Award – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited), Responsible Lottery Initiative Award – Rand Lottery Co. Limtd, lnnovation in Gaming Technology – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited), lnnovation in Lottery Technology – Wulucky Ghana Limited and Customer Service Excellence (Gaming) – Golden Dragon Casino Ghana Limited.

Others are Customer Service Excellence (Lottery) – Blue Star Hi-Tech, Marketing Campaign of the Year (Gaming) – BetPawa (Choplife Gaming Limited), Marketing Campaign of the Year (Lottery) – Alpha Lotto Limited, Regulatory Compliance Award (Gaming) – Wingatebet Limited, Regulatory Compliance Award (Lottery) – Rand Lottery Co. Limtd and Lifetime Achievement Award (Gaming) – Mr Peter Mireku (CEO, Gaming Commission of Ghana).

The rest are Lifetime Achievement Award (Lottery) – Dr George Gyamfi (Industry Expert, NCA), Non-Corporate Lotto Marketing Company of the Year – Ms Mercy Emefa Avorgbedor, Corporate Lotto Marketing Company of the Year – Mr Francis Opoku (Money Zone Co. Limtd), Chief Executive Officer of the Year (Gaming) – Ms Sharon Close (CEO of Millionaires Casino Ghana Limtd), Chief Executive Officer of the Year (Lottery) – Kenneth Kwame Asare, CEO of Alpha Lotto Limtd),  Special Recognition Award (Gaming Commission of Ghana) – Peter Mireku and Special Recognition Award (NLA) – Samuel Awuku.

CEO of Syndicated Entertainment Solutions, Manuella Fremponmaa Ansong, highlighted the positive impact of lotteries and games of chance, noting their ability to inspire hope and support important causes within communities.

The event culminated in a celebration of gaming and lottery leaders who have upheld excellence, responsibility, and innovation within the industries.

This move underscores the NLA’s commitment to fostering a fair and competitive lottery industry.

The public licensing event marks a significant advancement in the regulation of the lottery sector, reflecting the NLA’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency, protect legitimate businesses, and ensure fair competition.

With this latest issuance, the total number of licensed PLOs in Ghana has risen to 23, following the licensing of eight companies earlier this year.

These companies include; KGL Technologies, Blue Star Hi-Tech Company Limited, Luma Facilities and Trading Limited, Zeta Technologies, Fortune Synergy Limited, Afri Lotto Systems Limited, Game Park Limited, and Wulucky Ghana Limited.

The licenses were granted under the NLA Act 2006 (Act 722), the Lottery Regulations 2008 (LI 1948), and the Veterans Administration Ghana (VAG) 2012 (Act 844), setting a new benchmark for lottery operations in the country.

Three companies—Luma Technologies, Rand Lottery, and Alpha Lotto—received 10-year licenses, valid from January 2024 to December 2035, while the remaining 12 companies were granted licenses with terms ranging from two to three and a half years.

The newly licensed companies include Obiri Asare and Sons Company Limited, Zacdow Company Limited, Glovita Lottery Company Limited, and Makafui Mogyi Company Limited, among others.

These companies are authorised to operate the NLA’s original 5/90 Game, which is currently paper-based but is expected to transition to Point of Sale (POS) terminals within the next two years as part of their licensing conditions.

The new licenses also empower these companies to report illegal lottery operators to the NLA or security agencies, further strengthening the fight against unauthorized lottery activities.

NLA Board Chairman, Gary Nimako, reiterated the authority’s commitment to safeguarding the investments of licensed operators and cracking down on illegal operations.

He issued a stern warning to unlicensed companies to cease operations immediately and directed NLA Director General, Samuel Awuku, to enforce actions against illegal operators.

Despite the estimated GH₵1.8 billion annual value of Ghana’s lottery industry, the NLA captures only about GH₵800 million, with illegal operators pocketing over GH₵1 billion annually.

Out of approximately 700 illegal lotto companies, mostly in rural areas, only about 20 are registered with the NLA.

During the ceremony, Noah Afornofe, Managing Director of Rand Lottery Limited, spoke on behalf of the licensed PLOs, expressing satisfaction at finally reaching a complete licensing agreement.

Mr Awuku reassured the licensed companies of the NLA’s commitment to protecting their business interests and warned against writers working for multiple companies.

He also addressed rumours regarding ownership of the charity arm of the NLA, the Good Causes Foundation, and encouraged companies to document their charitable contributions.

Additionally, the NLA instructed the PLOs to enforce the payment of commissions to lotto writers, which has been raised from 20% to 25%.

This adjustment, in accordance with the Lotto Act (Act 722), aims to balance the financial needs of writers with the sustainability of the lottery companies.

Although lotto writers had previously petitioned for a 30% commission, a study showed that the 25% rate was already higher than international standards.

Some private lotto companies have been illegally paying up to 30% commission, a practice the NLA is working to eliminate.

Both Mr. Awuku and Mr. Nimako urged the companies to adhere to the 25% commission rate approved by the NLA, warning that non-compliance could result in the revocation of licenses.

The issuance of these licenses marks a new era in the regulation of Ghana’s lottery industry, with the NLA taking firm steps to ensure that the sector operates transparently and fairly, benefiting all stakeholders involved.

The partnership is to further position NLA as a competitive global player in the lottery industry following fruitful deliberations between its Director-General, Samuel Awuku, and Scientific Games’ CEO, Patrick McHugh.

Established in 1973, Scientific Games prides itself on being an industry pioneer in data analytics, retail solutions, and iLottery.

Scientific Games is also famed as a global leader in retail and digital products, technology, and services that drive profits for government-sponsored lottery and sports betting programs.

Scientific Games currently operates on six continents and seeks to make inroads on leaving its footprints on the African continent; thus, the CEO of Scientific Games, Mr. Patrick McHugh, invited the Director-General of NLA, Mr Awuku, to its head office in Atlanta, Georgia to discuss the prospects of partnering with the NLA to develop the scratch lottery industry, introduce instant games, and raffle tickets onto the Ghanaian market.

Mr McHugh, who was joined by the Vice President of Strategy and Planning, Mr. Nicholas Spahr, informed Mr Awuku of their desire to have a long-lasting relationship with the NLA, ensuring adherence to responsible gaming and developing trusted global brands.

Scientific Games also improves education, diversity, and mental health through numerous social advocacy and outreach efforts.

Mr. Samuel Awuku expressed the NLA’s readiness to assist Scientific Games in introducing innovative and exciting new games that will appeal to its patrons, particularly scratch cards and raffle tickets, which are currently absent from the Authority’s portfolio.

The Director-General of NLA also urged the team to consider using Ghana as a hub for developing their instant games and setting up a regional office, which would facilitate the movement of logistics.

Mr. Awuku was given a comprehensive tour of Scientific Games’ production lines and centres.

This included visiting the facilities where an impressive 25 billion tickets are printed annually, and a minimum of 10 million packs of tickets are printed monthly.

Scientific Games also develops 2,000 games annually and owns 70% of the global market for instant games and scratch lottery.

The World Lottery Association (WLA) has duly acknowledged it as the premier company in this area.

The Director-General, Mr. Awuku, says he is excited about this partnership and looks forward to the NLA attracting more foreign partners to the Authority.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/nla-blames-inability-to-crack-down-on-illegal-lottery-operations-on-political-interference/ Mon, 12 Aug 2024 14:33:35 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2432729 The National Lottery Authority (NLA) says its inability to clamp down on illegal lottery operations across the country is due to interference from political figures.

According to the Director General of the NLA, Sammy Awuku, the NLA has seen a consistent decline in revenue generation from over GH₵400 million in 2017 to GH₵200 million in 2021.

Mr Awuku said his outfit has an estimated 780 illegal operating lotto companies in Ghana and Ghana’s lottery field is estimated by the World Lotto Association to raise 1.8 billion cedies a year.

“Out of this, about a billion is in the hands of the illegal operators. They don’t pay taxes. We don’t know them. You go after them and it becomes a political matter.

“But now we have decided that in helping us get to that revenue mobilisation point, if you are not licensed to operate lottery, we won’t allow you to operate,” he said.

Responding to the findings of the Attorney General’s report at the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament, Mr Awuku said that the Authority loses at least one billion cedis to lottery operations in the black market.

The NLA Director General said the NLA is engaged in a tussle with the Ghana Lotto Operators Association (GLOA) among several measures to clamp down on illegal lottery operations.

“The measures we’ve taken is to stamp our authority. Our given mandate by Parliament and the law that if you are not licensed to operate lottery, we won’t allow you to operate.

“We’ve been embarking on swoops, but the Board took a firm decision last week that the NLA must now go out there to ensure that regardless of whoever you are, if you are not licensed to operate the lottery, you shouldn’t operate it,” he stressed.

Source: Myjoyonline

ALSO READ:

Medical practitioners must inform patients of drug side effect – Lawyer

Volta NDC reshapes roads in region

Speaking at an Editors’ Forum held in Accra, Mr Awuku assured the public that the NLA is intensifying efforts to regulate unlicensed operators and ensure that all lotto activities are conducted within the framework of the law.

Mr Awuku emphasized that the NLA will employ all means necessary to bring illegal operators under control and urged those involved to regularize their activities or face the full force of the law.

“We are taking decisive action to clamp down on illegal lotto operators. The NLA is committed to ensuring that everyone in the industry operates legally and contributes to the development of the sector,” he stated.

Reflecting on recent praise for his work, Mr Awuku highlighted the collective efforts of the NLA team in rebuilding the Authority’s brand over the past three years.

He was honoured as the CEO of the Year at both the 7th and 8th CEO Summit and Excellence Awards and also received the CEO of the Lottery Award in 2023.

“These awards are not just a personal achievement but a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire NLA team. We have made significant strides in repositioning the NLA as a trustworthy and efficient authority, and we will continue to uphold these standards,” Mr Awuku added.

The Editors’ Forum, which brought together media professionals and stakeholders, provided a platform for the NLA to share its successes and outline its plans.

The forum also allowed for discussions on the challenges facing the lottery industry and the steps the NLA is taking to address them.

The NLA’s crackdown on illegal lotto operators is part of its broader strategy to enhance the integrity and sustainability of the lottery sector in Ghana.

Mr Awuku called on the public to support the NLA’s efforts by reporting any illegal activities and helping to ensure that the industry thrives under fair and regulated conditions.

In doing this, he was ably supported by the Good Causes Foundation Coordinator, Madam Amma Frimpong.

Prior to the commissioning of the facility, a mini gathering was held where Mr. Awuku in his remarks highlighted some success stories of the NLA Good Causes Foundation since its inception, the four pillars of which the foundation thrives on, as well as Education and Health as a major concern which the construction of such washrooms fall as one of the priorities for good hygiene.

He also touched on Responsible gaming and advised the students to stick to their books and stay away from lotto games.

Some other Key personalities present at the gathering were; The Assistant Headmistress for administration, Mrs. Patricia Asare-Korang, Mr. Eric Yeboah Appiadu, Parliamentary Candidate for Akuapem South constituency, Hon. Frank Aidoo, MCE for Akuapem South, Mr. Okyere Danso, Assistant Headmaster (Academics), Mrs. Rita Biney, assist. Headmistress (domestics), Rev. Mrs. Joycelyn Baffoe-Bonney, assist. Chaplain of the school and Mr. David Nkansah Anto, PR. Manager for NLA.

The facility is made up of 2 washrooms for teachers (1 males, 1 Females), 10 washrooms for Students (1 converted for persons living with disability), a spacious changing room, a mechanized borehole, a polytank and two(2) standing pipes.

The Assistant Headmistress for administration who received the facility on behalf of the school expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the NLA for such a monumental project donated to the school. The MCE for Akuapem South also added his voice and appealed for more of such magnificent projects from the NLA.

Below are some photos

The decision to grant the NLA an Observer Membership status was made at the General Assembly of the EL Industry Days Seminar, which was held in Salzburg, Austria, from June 16 to 19.

The 45 member countries present at the event voted in unanimity for the NLA as an EL Observer Member.

This comes on the back of a strong pitch by the Director-General of NLA, Mr Samuel Awuku at the EL Public Seminar Order in Brussels in February 2024.  Mr Awuku was invited to share his views beyond Africa on Illegal Gambling in Ghana following which he made the pitch. Subsequently, the EL Secretary General, Mr. Arjan Van T’ Veer requested the NLA to officially write to the EL and go through an application process which required the submission of the Authority’s Financial Statements, expenditure on Good Causes and Responsible Gaming certification.

Having satisfied the criteria, the NLA is now officially an EL Observer Member.

NLA is the second African country to be granted Observer Membership after Morocco, bringing the EL’s current Observer Members to four.

They include: Satty Zhuldyz JSC of Kajakstan, Loterie Nationale Morocco and La Marocaine des Jeux et des Sports of Morrocco and the National Lottery Authority of Ghana.

The Observer Status allows the NLA and its stakeholders to now freely participate in the EL trainings, capacity buildings , exchange programs on best practices for the development of the lottery industry.

EL is present in 39 countries in Europe, with a total of 70 members. 50 members operate in a Member State of the European Union (EU) while 20 members operate in non-EU Member States.

Mr Samuel Awuku thanked the EL for granting the NLA this opportunity and believes it will strengthen the Authority’s operations and position the NLA internationally as the Authority seeks to pursue its vision to become the lottery organization of choice and blueprint in Africa and beyond.

Mr Awuku also praised his dedicated team led by the Governing Board and supported by Management and Staff for working collectively to achieve this milestone for the NLA brand which has soared in recent years.

Also present at the meeting were WLA officials including the President, Ms. Rebeccah Paul and, and the General Secretary, Ms. Lynne Roiter.

This historic election marks the first time a Director-General from an Anglophone country has ascended to the Vice Presidency of the ALA since its establishment in December 1981.

The ALA General Meeting, which saw members from across the continent come together, was convened to discuss the association’s Activity Report and elect new leaders for its Executive Committee.

Dramane Coulibaly, the Director-General for the Loterie Nationale de Cote d’Ivoire (LONACI) and Co-Opted Member of ALA to the World Lottery Association (WLA) as a Regional Representative, was re-elected as President of ALA for a four-year term.

In a shift within the association’s leadership, Mr. Omar Skali, Director-General of SOREC in Morocco, has taken over from Mr. Younes El Meshrafi as the General Secretary.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Samuel Awuku has been elected as Vice President, a move that signifies a step towards greater representation for Anglophone countries within the predominantly Francophone ALA.

Currently, ALA boasts 16 member bodies from 15 African countries, with Ghana and Liberia as the only Anglophone member countries.

Mr. Awuku’s highly competitive election represents a significant vote of confidence by his colleagues, especially considering that the election took place in his absence.

Mr. Awuku’s election is seen as a pivotal moment for the ALA, aiming to enhance the integration and representation of Anglophone countries within the association.

Despite his inability to attend the meeting in person due to the Working Visit of the President of Malta, H.E. Dr. George Vella to NLA, Mr. Awuku was well represented by Andrew Tuah, the Head of Operations of NLA, and Mr. Johnson Adu, the Bilingual Communications Officer.

The newly elected members of the ALA Executive Committee are scheduled to be officially sworn in at an Extraordinary General Assembly in the upcoming weeks.

This transition in leadership is anticipated to bring fresh perspectives and renewed vigor to the ALA’s mission of advancing the interests of member bodies across the African continent, fostering collaboration, and promoting ethical practices within the lottery industry.

The Board Chairman, His Eminence Torgbui Francis Seth Nyonyo, the Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, the Deputy Director-General, Ms. Anna Horma Miezah, and some management members received President George Vella and his delegation. 

President George Vella was accompanied by the Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Ghana’s High Commissioner to Malta, H.E. Barbara Akuorkor Benisa and Malta’s High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Jean Claude Galea Mallia and a team from Malta.

While thanking President George Vella and his delegation for honouring NLA with the visit, the Director-General of the NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku, chronicled the NLA’s journey from its inception as the Department of National Lotteries (DNL) to its transition to the National Lottery Authority (NLA), highlighting the role the Maltese Government played in its establishment.  

He recounted to the delegation how the Maltese Government, upon request from the then Prime Minister, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah, assisted Ghana in setting up a lottery institution by sending Maltese Public Officers of the Malta Lotteries Department to Ghana.

This was after the then Finance Minister, Mr Komla Gbedema, discovered the lottery in Malta while on an official assignment.

One of the two officers, Mr William Francis Brennan, who was instrumental in establishing DNL, later became its Director-General from 1958 to 1967.  

Appreciative of the gesture by the Maltese Government, the NLA named its Draw Hall, the Brennan Hall and erected a bust on its compound in honour of Mr. William Francis Brennan.

 Mr. Awuku also talked about the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation, established in 2021 under the leadership of the Board Chairman, His Eminence Torgbui Francis Nyonyo, and the NLA Governing Board. The Foundation gives back to society and has impacted the lives of over 400,000 people. 

Mr Awuku thanked President Vella and the team for the cooperation between NLA and the Republic of Malta and called for more collaboration in the years ahead.

“Mr. President, we also want to begin an exchange program with the Malta Gaming Authority where some of our Staff can visit Malta every year to learn about best practices and new technologies.”

In recounting how the lottery was initiated in his country, H.E. President George Vella commended the NLA for sustaining the lottery business over the years and contributing to society through the Good Causes Foundation, as Malta is currently doing.

“The NLA has done well to sustain this for more than 60 years since its introduction, and the reviews have been good. When we started the lottery in Malta, we did not know that it would have a positive effect here in Ghana, and I must say I am very impressed with what I have seen so far.”

After interacting with Management, President George Vella and the delegation were led to Mr. William Francis Brennan’s bust to pay homage.

Subsequently, they proceeded to Brennan Hall to interact with the NLA staff.

During the European Lotteries’ Public Order Seminar, held from February 21st to February 23rd, 2024, in Brussels under the theme “Enforcing Gambling Regulations: Significance and Challenges,” representatives from EL member organizations shared insights into law enforcement, regulatory frameworks, and industry practices related to tackling illegal gambling within their respective jurisdictions.

Mr. Awuku was invited as a guest speaker to provide perspectives from Africa, particularly Ghana, offering valuable insights into the unique challenges and approaches in addressing gambling-related issues beyond the European context.

While addressing measures instituted by the NLA to curb Illegal lottery operations and gambling in Ghana, he called for collaboration with the European Lotteries in fighting illegal lottery and gambling in Ghana.

Mr. Awuku also called on the EL to grant Ghana an Observer Status and partner with the NLA in the area of Good Causes and bemoaned illegal gambling operations on society which he noted can be dire, contributing to the loss of revenue in taxes for the government.

On some measures adopted in the fight against illegal gambling, he revealed “Using the Security Agencies equipped with state-of-the-art tech to zone in and arrest online lottery scammers. Swoops- Working in collaboration with a joint police and military team to conduct nationwide arrests and disrupt illegal lottery activities. Raids by the Gaming Commission to close down unauthorized gaming centres and cease equipment”

The EL Secretary-General, Arjan Van ‘T Veer, while commending Ghana on the inroads made in fighting illegal lottery and gambling, asked NLA to submit an official application for Observer Status.

Mr. Van T’ Veer also asked the NLA to work on enforcing responsible gaming, particularly where minors are concerned.

The DG was accompanied by the Ag. Director of SBI, David Lamptey and Head of Corporate Affairs, Maame Kesewaah Dolphyne.

This thoughtful initiative includes a state-of-the-art 10-seater ultra-modern WC, mechanized borehole, a polytank, one storeroom, and one office, all aimed at bringing about positive change and improving the quality of life for the residents.

The commissioning event was attended by community leaders and local officials who gathered to witness the official handover of these much-needed amenities.

The Director General of the National Lottery Authority, Mr. Samuel Awuku in his address, expressed immense pride in being able to contribute to the development of Anlo Town.

He highlighted the tireless efforts of the NLA Good Causes Foundation in prioritizing community welfare and enabling access to essential services.

In his remarks, the Member of Parliament (MP) for New Juaben South, Michael Okyere Baafi assured the Community of his continuous support for the socio-economic development of the Constituency.

Anlo Town has long faced challenges in terms of sanitation and water supply, making the provision of a 10-seater ultra-modern WC and mechanized boreholes particularly valuable.

These much-awaited facilities are set to vastly improve the community’s hygiene practices and ensure a safer environment for all.

Additionally, the donation of a borehole allows for efficient water storage and distribution, addressing the persisting issue of water scarcity.

NLA’s Good Causes Foundation serves as a testament to the power of partnerships and corporate responsibility.

Its commitment to sustainable community development is commendable and sets an admirable example for other groups and institutions to follow.

The Chief of the Anlo Community in New Juaben, Torgbui Sigismond Senyo Segbefia IV urged the committee to maintain the originality of the edifice.

Since inception in 2021, the NLA Good Causes Foundation based on its four pillars (Education, Youth & Sports, Health, and Arts and Culture) has demonstrated unwavering support to many communities nationwide.

The records available show the provision of over 100 boreholes ready for commissioning this year across the country, donation of vital infrastructural projects not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term growth and prosperity.

This humanitarian effort reflects the Good Causes Foundation’s dedication to uplifting communities and promoting sustainable change.

Officially handed the keys on Monday, January 1, 2024, Irene’s face lit up with joy upon seeing her new car for the first time.

Her win came after being declared the fortunate recipient in the special Sika oo Sika jackpot draw held on Christmas Day.

As a committed participant in the Sika oo Sika project, Irene, who teaches at Behenase M/A Primary School, committed approximately GH₵ 500.00.

Her investment has now paid off handsomely, as she is the proud owner of a car valued at a little over GH₵ 168,000.

The Sika oo Sika initiative is still ongoing, offering more opportunities for individuals to experience similar moments of luck and success.

Sika Ooo Sika is a product vetted and approved on the National Lottery Authority’s Caritas

Platform and run by MGL in partnership with Radio Entertainment Limited.

• Meet the lady who won the Sika oo Sika car

• MGL awards loyal viewer with $14,500 car in Sika oo Sika Bronya Akyedeε [Watch]

Ms. Anna Horma Miezah attended the event on behalf of the Director General of the NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku who was attending equally important events in Ghana.

The two-day Conference was hosted by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission(NLRC) at Victoria Island with assurances by Director General Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila OON that the Commission is committed to the agenda of maintaining that he would spare no efforts in his avowed determination to make the lottery a major revenue earner for the country.

At the opening of the conference, the DDG, Ms Anna Horma Miezah delivered a thought-provoking keynote address on the theme ‘Innovation and Disruption – Core Strategies for Success’.

Citing the role the COVID-19 Pandemic played in transforming conservative retail channels into digital channels, the DDG highlighted the importance of the use of technology and strategies to stay competitive in the gaming and lottery industry.

The Deputy Director General also encouraged the NLRC to institute Responsible Gaming and Good Causes in their operations citing the impact of the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation which has in touched over 350,000 lives.

Panel discussions, featuring industry experts and leaders, captured insights on experiences and innovative strategies to achieve long-term success.

This registration process is open to all entities and individuals interested in operating and selling Lotto products, ensuring compliance with the legal framework defined by the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722), and the Lotto Regulation, 2008 (L.I. 1948).

Prospective operators can obtain application forms from all NLA offices located nationwide, starting from Friday, October 27, 2023. The deadline for the submission of these application forms is set for Friday, November 17, 2023.

One notable change for the year 2024 is the reduction in the annual licence fee. The NLA Governing Board has decreased the annual licence fee from One million Five Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 1,500,000.00) to Five Hundred Thousand Cedis (GHS 500,000.00), along with the introduction of a monthly fee of Fifty Thousand Cedis (GHS 50,000.00) for the year.

Guidelines for Application/Registration:

1. Interested applicants can obtain registration forms from any NLA office across the country. The locations of these NLA offices are available for easy access.
2. There is a non-refundable application fee of One Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 1,000.00), which is payable by Bankers Draft ONLY. This payment should be made in favour of the NATIONAL LOTTERY AUTHORITY.
3. All applications must be submitted on an entity or individual basis. NLA will only register entities or individuals who apply independently. Multiple entities applying jointly for registration to operate are not permissible.
4. The NLA will conduct background checks on all applicants as part of the approval process for operation.

It is important to note that, following the conclusion of the registration exercise, any unregistered entities or individuals found operating or selling Lotto products will be subject to appropriate legal actions in accordance with the laws of Ghana.

The National Lottery Authority is committed to ensuring the integrity and compliance of all Lotto operators, and this registration process is a step toward achieving those goals.

We invite all interested parties to participate in the registration process and operate within the legal framework defined by the National Lotto Act.

MORE:

• NPP MP, NDC parliamentary candidate involved in ghastly accident [Photos]

• What Kufuor told Okoe-Boye at late wife’s one week observation

• Asantehene replies Dormaahene

The Customer Service Excellence Awards was established to recognize and appreciate outstanding individuals, locally and internationally, who champion Service Excellence in their respective fields, especially the tourism and hospitality industry.

Ghana’s High Commissioner to Malta, H.E. Barbara Akoukor Benisa, who has over three decades of experience in customer service, public relations, administration and management spanning diverse institutions and particularly in the Airline industry, was honoured for her contributions to customer service development advocacy to enhance tourism and hospitality private sector growth.

Her citation read, “Congratulations on the occasion of the 1^st Industry Customer Service Excellence Awards 2023. The Tourism and Hospitality Industry celebrates your outstanding achievements as a Customer Service Woman of Excellence”.

In the global celebration of Customer Service Week 2023, H.E Benisa, during a courtesy call on the Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), Mr Samuel Awuku, joined the Staff of the Authority to mark Career Day in celebration of the respective customers who interact with them.

Traditionally, NLA celebrates Customer Service in October to appreciate its external and internal customers with exciting activities that foster team bonding, unity and growth among Staff.

High Commissioner Benisa encouraged the Customer Service Team to take their roles seriously as customer interactions positively or negatively affect the organization.

Citing the quote by Maya Angelou, which says, “People will forget what you did.  People will forget what you said but never forget how you made them feel.” H.E. Benisa urged the Customer Service team to endeavour to always leave smiles on the faces of their customers.

H.E Benisa was also taken on a tour of the premises of the National Lottery Authority to visit some Departments. 

Prior to the NLA’s 60th-anniversary celebration last year, H.E. Benisa was instrumental in facilitating a trip by the NLA Governing Board and Management to Malta to invite the Maltese Government and the Malta Gaming Authority to the anniversary celebration.

She also facilitated a visit to the Maltese House of Representatives, where the speaker, Hon. Anġlu Farrugia, presented the original copy of NLA’s 1962 Registration Certificate that established NLA to the Director General, Mr. Samuel Awuku.

Surrounded by family and well-wishers, the NLA delegation expressed their deepest sympathies to the family of Former President John Agyekum Kufuor.

The Board Chairman, His Eminence Torgbui Francis Seth Nyonyo, signed the Book of Condolence on behalf of the National Lottery Authority.

Mrs. Theresa Kufuor, who passed on October 1, 2023, was the First Lady of Ghana from 2001 to 2008.  She was also a dedicated nurse and midwife.  She died at the age of 87.

The Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, Mr. Philip Kofi Aning, Madam Joana Frances Adda, Mrs. Annor Kumi, and the Board Secretary, Mrs. Akua Agyeman Appiah-Poku, were part of the delegation.

Below are some more photos of the visit:

The forum which was held on the 29th of September 2023, honoured Mr Awuku for his exceptional leadership in the public sector with a special award for Community Presence.

The inscription on the prestigious plaque highlighted the commendable achievements of the Good Causes Foundation arm of the NLA since its inception.

The positive outcomes of the foundation’s endeavors were described as immeasurable, and the results were acknowledged for their significant contribution to the overall development of the country.

Specifically, the inscription acknowledged the impactful initiatives undertaken by the Good Causes Foundation of the National Lottery Authority (NLA) under Mr. Awuku’s leadership.

The charitable acts of giving back to society were noted, with beneficiaries spanning across the educational, health, youth and sports development, as well as the arts and culture sectors of the country.

The recognition emphasized the outstanding nationwide efforts of the NLA Good Causes Foundation, particularly in the realms of health, education, youth and sports development, and arts and culture.

Mr. Samuel Awuku expressed his gratitude to UPSA on behalf of all the awardees. In his acceptance speech, he dedicated the award to the Coordinator of the Good Causes Foundation, Ms. Amma Frimpong, and commended her and the entire hardworking team for their dedication and impact.

Below are other photos of the event:

Hundreds of revelers of this year’s Akuapem Odwira and residents in the Akropong community and its environs are expected to throng the forecourt of Okuapehene’s Palace to witness NLA’s biggest daily draw, the National Weekly Lotto, on Saturday, 30^th September 2023, at 7:15 PM.

This stems from a courtesy call by the Director-General of NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku and his Management team on Thursday, 28^th September 2023, to officially inform the Okuapehene, HRM Oseadeeyo Kwasi Akuffo III of NLA’s Akuapem Odwira Community Draw.

“This is the first time NLA is holding a Community Draw in Akropong in its 61 years of existence.  NLA’s new ultra-modern Draw machines, christened money-making machines that draw the golden eggs, is also making its first stop in Akropong since its launch on August 1, 2023,” Mr. Awuku said.

The Okuapehene’s Palace went agog over the announcement by Mr. Awuku in anticipation of witnessing a live Draw in the Akropong community.

NLA’s ultra-modern new Draw machines would be crane-lifted from the renowned Brennan Hall, where the Authority’s Draws are held, for Akropong at dawn on Saturday and heavily guarded by a combined security personnel of military and police.

Patrons and the general public will also have an exciting opportunity to witness the draw presented by ace Actor Akrobeto, Comedian Kalybos, actress Jessica Williams and the Authority’s presenters, Beryl Adom.

According to the Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, as part of efforts to dispel the myth about its Games and Draws, NLA introduced the Community Draws.

The objective is also to educate people on the transparency and integrity of the draw, especially to dismiss the activities of fraudsters who purport to give out leaked winning numbers on WhatsApp and Facebook.

“Many people believe the falsehood peddled by some unscrupulous persons that NLA’s draws are manipulated because they have not witnessed one.  Holding Community Draws, therefore, allows NLA to bring the Draw closer to the people, to help them appreciate the process from start to finish”.

Mr. Awuku said Community Draws are held in partnership with the chiefs and Traditional Councils to fulfil the Arts and Culture Pillar under the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation.

NLA has so far held Community Draws in Obomeng-Kwaku during the Easter festivities, in Cape Coast during the Fetu Afahye, in Anlo during the Hogbetsotso Za, at the West Hills Mall in partnership with the Ghana Trade Fair Company Limited and in Nsawam Adoagyiri.

NLA is expecting a good show on Saturday, 30^th September 2023, at 7:15 P.M. at the forecourt of the Okuapehene’s Palace for the live draw of the National Weekly Lotto. 

Revelers are being urged to play their games ahead of the day to win big.

The draw will also be telecast live on United Television.

The Draw was held at the Head Office of Ghana Post, Accra.

Citing Section 23 of the National Lotto Act and LI 1948, which mandates NLA “to conduct Draws at a given date, place and time,” and Section 2, (4) of the National Lotto Act, which mandates the Authority to hold Draws in collaboration with third parties, Mr. Awuku also announced a Partnership Agreement with Ghana Post to bring its games closer to the public.

In the spirit of the partnership, NLA launched the Noon Rush Draw at the premises of Ghana Post.

The new addition, Noon Rush Draw, which would be held at 1:00 PM from Monday to Saturday, giving patrons of NLA Games multiple chances to win in a day, can be played on NLA’s Point of sale terminals and their Online Channel,*959#.

This brings the Authority’s Daily Draws to three: the VAG Lotto Draw at 10:00 AM, NoonRush at 1:00 PM and the popular Evening Draws at 7:15 PM.

The Director-General of NLA, Samuel Awuku, on August 1, 2023, announced the introduction of the NoonRush Draw at the launch of the Authority’s new state-of-the-art Draw Machines and the unveiling of its new ultra-modern Draw Studio.

According to Mr Awuku, NLA recently attained Level 2 Certification in Responsible Gaming from the World Lottery Association (WLA) and is working on achieving Level 3 by the end of the year.

Holding multiple Draws daily is, therefore, in conformity with the Authority’s obligations as a WLA member.

Following the launch of the NoonRush Draw, the Director-General of NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku and the Managing Director of Ghana Post, Mr. Bice Osei-Kuffour, signed the Partnership Agreement to play NLA’s Games at Ghana Post.

Consequently, NLA’s Games are now available on point-of-sale terminals in over 50 Post Offices across the country.

According to the Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, while digitalization allows a cross-section of players to play from the comfort of their homes on smart devices on NLA’s Online Platform, this collaboration with Ghana Post forms part of NLA’s quest to reach out to its conservative players who are sentimentally attached to playing from NLA’s Point of Sale Terminals.

Mr Awuku said the collaboration also seeks to raise revenue for both organizations.

“With this Partnership, NLA and Ghana Post are two state-owned organisations promoting each other’s business and generating revenue for our respective organizations, and I believe this venture must be supported”.

Managing Director of Ghana Post, Mr Bice Osei-Kuffuor, on his part, said the Partnership Agreement is a testament to the reinvigorated Ghana Post and called on Service Providers to do business with the company.

“This, like many other partnerships entered into, is a manifestation of the new energies Ghana Post is emitting to, attracting giants like the National Lottery Authority to do business with us,” Mr Osei-Kuffour said.

Mr. Osei-Kuffuor also noted that Ghana Post’s Offices are in every district and region of the country, and the company is working on having NLA’s Games at other Post Offices by the end of the year.

Ghana Post is working with NLA through its intermediary, Lotto Pay Solutions Ltd. Lotto Pay Solutions Ltd is a Lotto Marketing Company (LMC) retailing NLA’s products at over 50 selected Post Offices nationwide.

Other photos of the signing ceremony:

It spanned assertions of his inexperience in corporate governance, his incapacity to handle an organization previously managed by military men and technocrats, his lack of experience in lottery and revenue generation, to warnings from a church youth to reject an “indecent and ungodly appointment.”

Perhaps the only empathetic voice in the public space would be that of the appointing Authority, President Akufo-Addo, who believed in the choice he had made and thus urged his appointee with the words, “Sammi, I think you can make a difference. Go out there and show the world what you can do.”  

After twenty-four months of managing the NLA, has Sammi Awuku proven his critics right or wrong?  Has he justified the confidence reposed in him? Is the NLA any better than it used to be, or worse off than he met it?

Let’s put the NLA in perspective, shall we?

GLOBAL PRESENCE

Fortune House, one of the iconic buildings on the high street of Accra, credited with transforming the lives of many Ghanaians, now exemplified an organization with a battered image riddled with deep-seated problems and needed its fortunes turned around. Still, like a man on a mission, Mr. Awuku was determined to rewrite the story of the NLA when he walked onto the premises on 9^th August 2021.  

He hit the ground running by embarking on a trip to one of the most prosperous lottery bodies in the West African sub-region, the Lotterie Nationale De Cote d’Ivoire (LONACI).

His objective? Carry out a fact-finding mission to understudy what the Ivorian lottery body was doing differently to gain so much profit. 

Several trips to Ivory Coast would develop a relationship that would endear NLA to the Ivorians and win their unwavering support. 

This support is seen in a delegation led by the Director-General of LONACI, Mr. Dramane Coulibaly, who also doubles as the President of the African Lotteries Association (ALA) attending the relaunch of NLA’s Caritas Lottery Platform and the launch of the NLA Good Causes Foundation in October 2021 and presenting the Foundation with Sixty thousand Dollars ($ 60,000.00).   

This relationship will also help the NLA get re-accepted into ALA, having been kicked out from the Association a couple of years ago.

At an annual event that celebrates and highlights the importance of horse racing in sports lottery on the African Continent in Morocco, the Grand Prix d’Afrique, Mr. Awuku pitched for NLA to host the next African Lotteries Association Seminar on Responsible Gaming and won the bid. 

NLA, therefore, got to host the Seminar on Responsible Gaming as part of its 60^th Anniversary Celebration in December 2022, drawing over 20 lottery bodies and about 150 people across Africa, Europe, and North America to Ghana.

The President of the World Lottery Association (WLA), Ms. Rebecca Paul, and her General Secretary, Ms. Lynne Roiter, visited Africa for the first time to attend this event.

For the next four days in Accra, they were thrilled to a series of events that culminated in the Grand Durbar of NLA’s 60^th Anniversary Celebration, with H.E President Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo as the Special Guest of Honour. 

H.E. President Akufo-Addo repeated history by pressing the knob for the first winning number as Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah did 60 years ago for the first winning number and prize money of Five Thousand Pounds (5,000.00).

Hosting about 150 people in Ghana, most of whom were experiencing the Ghanaian culture, food, music, dance, and hospitality for the first time, not only put NLA on the global lottery map but also contributed to our tourism industry, ultimately generating revenue for our country.

NLA has since attained Level 2 Certification in Responsible Gaming from the World Lottery Association and is working to achieve Level by the end of the year.

While visiting the Ivory Coast on the assumption of office, Mr. Awuku and some Management members also paid working visits to Nigeria to have discussions with the Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, on how NLA can receive some royalties for Nigeria’s use of its Draw numbers.

 These visits would, almost two years on, earn NLA Eighteen Million Ghana Cedis. (GHS 18,000.000.000) in royalties, Thirteen Million Ghana Cedis. (GHS 13,000.000.000) from Ivory Coast.  NLA’s 5/90 Game has been exported to Ivory Coast and Nigeria and is now being officially played there via NLA’s online partner, KGL Technology Limited.

Conversations held on the side-lines of a trip to Morocco in March 2023  with the Director Generals of Liberia and Burkina Faso will set the tone for NLA’s 5/90 Game to be exported to both countries for royalties by the end of 2023.

INCREASED REVENUE GENERATION

KGL Technology Limited, one of the leading companies of the KGL Group, online partner, and Third Party Collaborator of the NLA, contributed to Mr. Awuku’s woes on the assumption of office. 

It was professed as one of the banes of the Authority’s dwindling business; thus, cancelling the contract would restore the Authority’s Fortunes.

In examining the state of affairs, Mr. Awuku, with the support of the Governing Board, decided to renegotiate the contract sum from Twenty-Five Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 25,000,000.00) to Fifty-Five Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 55,000,000.00).

A deal that not only doubled the contract sum but also contributed Two Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 2,000,000.00) to the Authority’s Good Causes Foundation and Three Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 3,000,000.00) as a stabilization Fund to the Lotto Marketing Companies (LMCs) to cushion their business.

In 2023, the KGL Sum Contract moved up to Sixty-Five Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 65,000,000.00) and, together with the royalties from Ivory Coast and Nigeria, is paying NLA a total sum ofNinety Six Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 96,000,000.00).

NLA has also signed on new Third-Party Collaborators, including Afri Lotto Systems Limited, operator of the Afriluck 6/57 Mega Jackpot, Zeta Technologies Ltd., operator of the Mega6 Lotto, Game Park Limited, operator of the Pick 4 and Pick 1 Games, Blue Star Hi-Tech Company Ltd and Fortune Synergy Limited, operator of the Mega Fortune. 

Apart from generating revenue for NLA, these wholly owned Ghanaian businesses, operating Games that are not 5/90, have injected some excitement and variety into the lottery space.

NLA’s licensed Private Lotto Operators (PLOs) operating under the frameworks of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722) and Veterans Administration Act, 2012 (Act 844) pay a current annual renewable license fee of One million, Five Hundred Thousand (GHS 1,500,000.00) Ghana Cedis and Five Hundred Thousand Ghana Cedis (GHS 500,000.00) respectively.

Mr. Awuku has stated on several platforms that the NLA is working in collaboration with the security agencies to clamp down on all unlicensed illegal lottery operators, and no friend or foe will be spared when caught as the NLA will only be fulfilling its obligations of raising revenue for the state.

THE CARITAS LOTTERY PLATFORM & THE GOOD CAUSES FOUNDATION

“This promotion is regulated by the National Lottery Authority on the Caritas Lottery Platform” must be a familiar refrain on most consumer promotions on our airwaves.

The Caritas Lottery Platform, established in 2012 to regulate consumer promotions, suddenly dropped, giving the Gaming Commission the upper hand to regulate the space.

Three months into Office, in October 2021, NLA relaunched the Caritas Lottery Platform and launched the Good Causes Foundation, graciously done by the Chief of Staff, Hon. Akosua Frema Osei-Opare.

NLA also petitioned the Office of the Attorney General to clarify who should regulate the consumer promotion space.  In a piece of advice from the Office of the Attorney General and Minister for Justice in August 2022, NLA was named as the sole statutory body, to the exclusion of all others, to regulate all consumer promotional schemes with elements of chance (raffles, draws, points-based selection criteria, etc.). 

The Caritas Lottery Platform has since bounced back, giving legitimacy and credibility to promotions by Corporate Ghana and assurance to consumers.  Managers of the Platform have gone beyond raising revenue to provide clients with essential feedback from the market regarding what people are thinking about their brands and products.

The Good thing is proceeds from the Caritas Lottery Platform fund the NLA Good Causes Foundation.

The Good Causes Foundation stems from Section 2(3) of the National Lotto Act – stipulates, “NLA conducts, as part of the operation of National Lotto, a lottery to provide care and protection for the physically or mentally afflicted, the needy, the aged, orphans, and destitute children.”

NLA, therefore, operates its Good Causes Foundation under four pillars: Education, Health, Youth and Sports Development, and Arts and Culture.

The Foundation has built recreational centres, sanitary facilities, mechanized boreholes, refurbished schools and hospitals, granted scholarships to brilliant but needy students, and provided educational and medical equipment, amongst many others, for communities, individuals, and institutions nationwide.

NLA says it invests in these projects to fulfill its statutory obligation, give back to the communities in which it operates, and let our patrons know that when patrons do not win, their money supports national development.

Mr Awuku’s critics, however, say the Good Causes Foundation is concentrated in the Eastern Region to help him win the Akuapim-North seat.  He refutes that the records of projects undertaken since 2021 and ongoing projects have been made public in several publications by the Authority and can be easily verified.

As the local slang goes, is it a case of “outside gentility, home cry,” where the Authority, albeit fulfilling its mandate in Section 2 (3) of its National Lotto Act, gives to society at the expense of the welfare of Staff? 

According to the Coordinator of the Good Causes Foundation, Amma Frimpong, over 70 Staff who have applied to the Foundation, primarily for medical aid and scholarships, have all received support with outstanding requests to be granted in the last quarter of the year.

EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENTS AND STAFF DEVELOPMENT

“I am not here to inherit anybody’s enemies; I am here to generate revenue; let us put our hands to the wheel and work together…” This statement by Mr Awuku on his first day at NLA undoubtedly endeared many of the Staff to him, yet some of his worst critics have been the NLA Staff.  In his own words, he is loved and hated in equal measure.

Staff and salary upgrades for Staff who had been on the same grade at NLA for over ten years and more, the Institution of the Cola Scheme, Medical insurance, Team bonding activities, Fuel subsidies, and Training Opportunities both locally and abroad are reasons some Staff appreciate the Director-General. 

Yet, some Staff have alleged the award of contracts to family members of the Director-General and the sole source of such agreements. For instance, the building of a Data Centre, Monitoring System, and ERP have emerged. 

According to Mr. Samuel Awuku, one of the challenges he noticed NLA grappling with on assumption of office in August 2021 was the absence of a Data Centre and an automated platform.

Some of the challenges identified include:

1. Systemic weakness due to lack of real-time transparency regarding transactional data.

2. Revenue generation and cash flow management due to the volume of transactions that the automated platform permits and the opacity that the current system brings, causing huge risks for large pay-outs due to nefarious internal or external actors who take advantage of the disorganized information flow of the system.

3. Different software systems that the NLA depends on, which are owned by its partners and collaborators, put the NLA at a disadvantage during disputes and resolutions—for instance, a shutdown by technical partners, which happened in the past.

After analyzing various alternatives,’ financial and non-financial benefits and risks, Management decided to invest in an NLA-owned custom-built comprehensive Lotto Monitoring Enterprise Resource Planning Solution that will provide direct and easier access to real-time data and transparency of its operations.

In the long run, the solution will save the institution an estimated Four Hundred and Eighty-Eight Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 488,000,000.00) over the next ten years.

After multiple presentations, the NLA Governing Board approved the solution’s procurement.

Owing to the security implications of procuring an IT solution and NLA being a government agency, it was not prudent to open this bid up, a fact PPA acknowledges, thus granting NLA approval, particularly to a service provider who had understudied and identified the systemic challenges the Authority was faced with.

One would wonder if the Staff crying foul belongs to the camp of those who take advantage of the lapses in the system to steal from the company, some of whom have recently been indicted by the National Signals Bureau. 

An audit of the Authority revealed that about Eighteen Million Ghana Cedis (GHS 18,000,000.00) had been lost between 2021 and March 2023 due to these lapses in the system.

The Governing Board directed a complete investigation of all Staff to ensure that others were not involved in the misconduct, inviting the presence of the NSB to the NLA premises, with Staff duly informed of their presence.

Even though the Authority has approval to build the Data Center, the project has been shelved until the Authority is in a great position to do so.

Mr Awuku debunks the assertion that about 90% of contracts awarded are sole-sourced and says, on the contrary, a recent audit pegs the figure to 20%.  Other Contractual Agreements attributed to the Director-General’s family have also proven untrue, and can easily be verified from the Public Procurement Authority, Registrar General and the NLA.

Checks revealed that Sammi Awuku has personally decided not to take salaries over the last two years and has been using his own vehicle as a cost-cutting measure.

Some Staff commend him for instilling a sense of discipline, punctuality, and industrial peace in the NLA and reviving its corporate status.  

While Mr. Awuku acknowledges the challenges, in his words, the tragedies and triumphs of the past two years, he believes with the guidance of the Governing Board, and the support of the Deputy Director-General, Ms. Anna Horma Miezah, Management and   Staff, the NLA has greatly improved its lot and will seek to do more

With the Authority recently modernising its operations with new state-of-the-art draw machines, an ultra-modern draw studio, and a French presenter for its French Community in Ivory Coast, Mr. Awuku believes the NLA can only get better from here and should get ready to partner with investors to improve its operations and generate revenue for the Authority.

So, has Sammi Awuku justified the confidence reposed in him or should the appointing authority not have bothered? As is said in Latin, res ipsa loquitur, meaning “the thing speaks for itself.

She received the honour at the 3rd National Governance and Business Leadership Awards 2023, hosted by the Governance and Business Boardroom.

Miezah has been recognized as one of the ten outstanding Top Transformational Deputy Managing Directors across various industries in Ghana, making her a deserving recipient of this esteemed accolade.

The citation presented to her during the event reads as follows: “In recognition of your exceptional merits and accomplishments as a Deputy Managing Director, Ms. Anna Horma Miezah, Deputy Director-General of the National Lottery Authority, is hereby awarded the Top Transformational Deputy MD Leadership Award by the Governance and Business Boardroom, under the auspices of Rad Communications.”

The National Governance and Business Leadership Awards stands as a significant initiative for driving economic development and strategic leadership.

Developed by the Governance & Business Boardroom, the awards program aims to celebrate and advocate for principles of strong corporate governance and leadership, while also highlighting contributions to economic empowerment and job creation within Ghana.

This event serves as a platform to honour and acknowledge outstanding individuals and organizations, including top CEOs, Board Chairs, Procurement Leaders, HR Leaders, Business Leaders, and other notable contributors to Ghana’s corporate landscape.

This was after the community had depended solely on the Nyenyeme river as their main source of water over the years exposing them to various water-related diseases.

The borehole project will serve as a sustainable and renewable source of clean water supply for the community.

The Good Causes Foundation of the National Lottery Authority since it was put in place has provided support for the less privileged in society and has contributed immensely to the development agenda of the country.

Announcing the gesture, the Director General for the National Lottery Authority in a post on his social media said “For a long time, the people of the Abotakyi Community depended on the Nyenyeme river as their main source of water.

As part of our commitment to making a positive impact, the National Lottery Authority through its Good Causes Foundation has commissioned four boreholes for the people of the Abotakyi community in the Akuapem North District of the Eastern Region.

The borehole project will serve as a sustainable and renewable source of clean water supply for the community.

Present at the commissioning was the Chief of Abotakyi, Nana Okyekerekuro, Kwame Sakyi Ababio II, Asasewhene of Akuapem Traditional Area, the Queen Mother Of Abotakyi, Aburihene and Adontehene of Akuapem, Nana Otoobour Djan Kwasi II.

Other distinguished traditional leaders of the Abotakyi Traditional Area and the Assemblyman for the electoral area were also present.”

They were thrilled to some good music from the veteran musician at an event to mark the month of love.

Amakye Dede whose songs are evergreen gave a good account of himself on the night when he stood for over two hours, singing and entertaining staff of the Authority and their partners who chose to be part of the event on Tuesday.

In attendance at the event were some Chief Executives of Public Institutions, Deputy Ministers of State, Heads of the Various Departments at NLA, Business partners and some Members of Parliament.

Amakye Dede, during his visit to the offices of the National Lottery Authority on February 2, 2023, promised to treat the Staff of NLA to good music to mark Valentine’s Day as part of his contributions to activities to mark the Authority’s 60th Anniversary.

Find photos of the event below:

In a statement released by the Authority, it cautioned that Private Lottery Operators who still need to regularize their operations have up to January 23, 2023, to do so or face severe sanctions.

“NLA will revoke the licenses of operators who have failed, refused, or neglected to regularise their registration and pay the required licensing fees by January 23, 2023. Furthermore, in collaboration with the security agencies, NLA will undertake exercises to clamp down on all unlicensed and/or illegal lotto and/or lottery operators.  All illegal operators arrested during these exercises will be made to face the full rigors of the law.”

NLA has also published the list of entities the authority has entered into third-party collaborations with and has advised the public to deal with only the entities listed, as the authority will not be liable for any losses or damages incurred from transactions with other parties.

NLA, in the statement, also informed the Private Lotto Operators that its Lotto Commission, approved by its Governing Board and payable to agents, is still 20% until otherwise communicated.

NLA has also notified the relevant regulatory bodies to take action.

NATIONAL LOTTERY AUTHORITY: STATUS OF THIRD-PARTY COLLABORATIONS AND PRIVATE LOTTO OPERATORS FOR THE 2023 LICENSING YEAR

The public is hereby notified that NLA has entered into collaborations with the following entities and has successfully licensed them for the 2023 Licensing Year in accordance with the provisions of the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722).

THIRD PARTY COLLABORATIONS:

1. KGL TECHNOLOGY LIMITED

2. AFRI LOTTO SYSTEMS LIMITED

3. BLUE STAR HI-TECH COMPANY LIMITED

4. FORTUNE SYNERGY LIMITED

5. WULUCKY GHANA LIMITED

6. ZETA TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED

7. GLOBALFUN GHANA LIMITED

Upon the expiration of the deadline for registration on 29th December 2022, the underlisted companies had duly registered and partly satisfied the requirements to be licensed as Private Lotto Operators.

PRIVATE LOTTO OPERATORS:

1. ACCURATE GIANT LIMITED

2. ALPHA LOTTO LIMITED

3. FROM-HOME COMPANY LIMITED

4. GLOVITA LOTTERY LIMITED

5. LOTTO AND LOTTERIES LIMITED

6. MIWOR KAKRA YEBEDI NTI LIMITED

7. RAND LOTTERY LIMITED

8. SADACO-HOPE LOTTERY GHANA

9. WULUCKY GHANA LIMITED

10. ZACDOW COMPANY LIMITED

11. ZINBAX CONSTRUCTION LIMITED

He reminded the authority of its Corporate Social Responsibility of catering for the needy and less privileged in society, emphasizing that partnering with government in this regard is critical.

“Your sustained efforts at maintaining this national endeavor, especially for the sense of commitment to fulfilling the obligation is embedded in the National Lotto Act to take care of the needy, the aged, orphans and the destitute”

“Giving back to society through your Good Causes foundation compliments the efforts of government in the development of our country and it is worthy of emulation by others” the President urged.

President Akufo-Addo also tasked the NLA to be transparent in its draws to maintain its integrity held over the years. He believes it is the best way to keep its credibility in the gaming industry while insisting that

“As an institution tasked with revenue generation, I will implore you to ensure that you exercise the highest form of transparency and integrity in the conduct of your draws to uphold the confidence that the public continues to have in you”, he said.

The Director General of the NLA Mr. Samuel Awuku on his part is optimistic of a brighter future for the NLA with new reforms in line with its operations to achieve the desired result

“We are excited about this new phase and of what the future holds as we forge ahead in our journey. We believe there will be bigger hurdles to cross and while we acknowledge the work that lies ahead, we remain resolute with a renewed commitment to do much better for out cherished patrons”, he said.

According to Madam Paul, the stated amount was spent last year alone as contributions from various lottery bodies across the globe.

Speaking at the climax of the 60th-anniversary celebration of the Ghana Lottery Authority (NLA) at which she was in attendance with other executives of the WLA, Madam Paul underscored the significance of Good Causes.

“I am happy to tell you that we spent Ninety-Two Billion Dollars in last year alone raised by Lotteries across the globe for Good Causes”, she revealed.

The WLA President is however worried about the proliferation of illegal lotto operations she disclosed is hampering the objectives of Lottery bodies honouring their corporate social responsibility through Good Causes.

“The biggest detriment to what is happening is illegal gaming. They don’t contribute to Good Causes, they don’t pay taxes, and they don’t follow the same rules all of us do in terms of Corporate Social Responsibility. The World Lottery Association is working on how to prevent Illegal gaming across the globe. All of you here in Ghana should be very pleased with the amount of money raised for health, education and sports”, she disclosed.

It would be recalled that at this year’s World Lottery Summit held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, it was uncovered those illegal lottery activities which according to the Association caused a loss of revenue of a total of 1.8 trillion dollars in 2022 alone.

As a result, the World Lottery Authority (WLA) has revealed that it will be focusing more on responsible gaming and good causes in the coming years and has asked member countries to promote these values.

Ghana’s National Lottery Authority (NLA) itself has been battling illegal lottery activities for some time now and is determined to increase its clamp down with new measures put in place by the current Director-General.

The NLA which has also little over a year now launched its charity arm the ‘Good Causes Foundation’, is determined to develop, implement and maintain an integrated action plan based on four main pillars – education, health, youth and sports development and culture.

This was declared by the President of WLA to journalists here in Accra as part of the NLA’s 60th anniversary and gaming seminar.

The NLA is hosting over 15 countries from Africa in a three-day Seminar on Responsible Gaming by the Africa Lottery Association (ALA) which Ghana is a member of.

The Seminar will have about 15 Director Generals from 15 African Lottery Bodies coming together to deliberate on various issues, policies and frameworks of the lottery industry.

The event will be climaxed with a grand durbar with Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, ministers of state and some members of parliament.

Speaking with Journalists at the event, President of the WLA, Rebecca Paul says the event will sort to better the gaming industry and has commended the NLA for its 60 years of dedication to the nation.

ALSO READ:

World Lottery boss, other global lottery gurus in Ghana for NLA@60

You’ve made us proud – Malta Gaming Authority to Ghana’s NLA

Director General of NLA, Sammy Awuku, who was filled with excitement said, selecting Ghana to host such a conference means detailed research was carried out and tells how phenomenon the NLA is in the societal development.

Touching on responsible gaming in Ghana, Mr Awuku said there have been adverts in that regard, they check age before gaming and have warned against addiction to lottery.

The two are on a historic visit to Ghana as part of activities marking the 60th-anniversary celebration of the NLA which has witnessed major reforms over the last six decades.

The African Lotteries Association (ALA) President, Mr. Dramane Coulibaly from Ivory Coast and Younnes El- Mechrafi General Secretary of ALA and also Vice President of the WLA will also be present.

It would be recalled that Madam Rebecca Paul the first woman to be elected for the coveted position of President for the World Lottery Association was recently in Vancouver re-elected for a second two-year term.

She has been instrumental in leading many reforms and championing Good Causes across the various Lottery Bodies.

Together with the experienced General Secretary, Madam Lynne Roiter and other Top Executives of the World Lottery Body will also be participating in the Seminar on Responsible Gaming, being organized by the African Lotteries Association and hosted by the National Lottery Authority of Ghana.

The event itself will bring together about 15 African Countries, Director Generals and several Experts in the Lottery industry across the Globe.

The Responsible Gaming Seminar is a major event on the ALA Calendar and will be graced by the President of the World Lottery Body.

The Entire Delegation will also join H. E the President of Ghana Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, Ministers of State, CEOs, MPs Representatives of the Political Parties at the Grand Durbar of the NLA at 60. 

The President is expected to grace the Grand Durbar of the NLA’s 60th Anniversary as Special Guest of Honour on Friday 9th December at 4 pm at the NLA Head Office in Accra.

The event is expected to attract over 80 foreign guests From North America, Europe, the Caribbean and Africa will be arriving tonight in Accra ahead of this historic celebration.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Maltese National Lottery, Johann Schembriwhile despite hailing Samuel Awuku and his team also proposed ways NLA can deal with the activities of illegal lottery operators which was a topical issue at the World Lottery Association Conference recently, and expressed concern over the high commission rates paid by NLA,  warning that this development could affect the Authority within the next few years if not checked.

He indicated that Malta, which had one of the world’s highest commission rates of 7%, is seeking to guard against future increases, citing countries like the United Kingdom and the United States, which currently pay commission rates of around 6%.  They indicated their willingness to partner with NLA in developing the game to another level.

Chief Officer of Policy and International Affairs in Malta, Mr. Kinga Ward lauded the recognition by the Ghanaian team they mentored over 6 decades ago and gave them an insight into their game.

History of Ghana’s NLA and Maltese National Lottery

A simple business trip to an island in Southern Europe over six decades ago paved the way for the birth of a national treasure in Ghana.

A Finance Minister’s fascination with the lottery when he chances on it while on an official visit, culminates in the birth of the Department of National Lotteries (DNL), when he informs the President of the Republic, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah of his exciting discovery.

After discussions with the Maltese Government, another visit by Ghanaian envoys to understudy the lottery, the secondment of Maltese officials to help Ghana set up its own lottery body, and the passing of a Lotteries bill in parliament in 1962, DNL is officially instituted.

Sixty years on, DNL now an autonomous body, the National Lottery Authority NLA, reconnected with its mother lottery Authority in Malta.

Historic Visit 60 years on

A team comprising some Board Members and Management including Mr. Philip Anning, Madam Frances Joana Adda, the Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku, the Chief Internal Auditor, Mrs. Emmanuella Ephraim, the Head of Corporate Affairs, Ms. Judith Kormleand the Interim Chairman of the Association of Lotto Marketing Companies, Mr. Francis Opoku officially paid a visit to some selected government Offices and the Malta Gaming Authority to invite them to NLA’s 60th Anniversary Celebration.

The NLA Delegation, representing the Board Chairman, His Emminence, Torgbui Francis Nyono, together with Ghana’s High Commissioner to Malta, H.E Barbara Benissa first called on Malta’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr. Ian Borg, who paid glowing tribute to the partnership between Ghana and Malta and called for closer collaboration between these countries.

He wished the NLA well and promised to reciprocate the official visit in January as part of his Official tour to Ghana. He was confident Ghana could still learn from the Maltese experience since Malta had advanced from what Francis Brennan taught Ghana some 60 years ago.

Next, the NLA team led by the Ghana High Commissioner to Malta, H.E Barbara A. Benisa also had the privilege of paying a courtesy call on the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malta, Hon. AnġluFarrugia. He warmly welcomed the NLA Team and handed over a copy of the 1962 Registration Certificate of NLA to the Director General, Mr. Samuel Awuku. He also advised the NLA team to change its lottery processes and strategies to achieve more significant revenue and growth.

The Director General of NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku thanked the Speaker of Parliament, for the hospitality and for taking the time to meet with the team even though the Maltese Parliament was in session deliberating on their budget for 2023.

The Malta Gaming Authority confirmed its participation at NLA‘s 60t Anniversary Grand Durbar.

The Maltese High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E Jean Claude GaleaMallia facilitated the visit to Malta.

“It has been an amazing gathering of all the Industry Players from over 100 countries committed to Responsible Gaming and Good Causes at the World Lottery Summit in Vancouver. Congratulations to President Rebecca Paul and her reelected executives as they continue to steer the affairs of the World Body for another term. The NLA is grateful that for the first time the World Lottery Association President will be visiting Africa to Grace our 60th Anniversary and the African Lotteries Association Conference in Accra in December”, he revealed.

Mr Awuku, who just returned from the World Lottery Summit held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada said although the NLA chalked 60 on September 29, 2022, the actual anniversary celebrations would be in December and would be attended by both Rebecca Paul and Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo.
Ghana’s NLA was highly commended at the World Lottery Summit for responsible gaming and pragmatic steps against illegal lottery.

Ghana’s NLA has been spearheading a war against illegal lottery activities and adopted new creative measures put in place by the current Director-General, Sammi Awuku.

The 2022 World Lottery Summit, attended by over a thousand delegates drawn from various continents said the WLA would be more focused on responsible gaming and good causes because illegal lotteries led to revenue loss to the tune of 1.8 trillion dollars in 2022 alone.

Ghana was represented at WLA Summit by Sammi Awuku and Dr. George Gyamfi-Osew the immediate past Director of Operations of the Authority.

The World Lottery Authority (WLA) holds its meetings every two years but could not hold the 2020 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meetings amongst other things take stock of the various member countries’ programs, Regional reports, suspensions and expulsions from the Association.

Again, it is also to consider new members who meet the criteria and to promote Responsible Gaming and Good Causes within the various Lottery Bodies.

This year two lottery bodies from Russia and Belarus were suspended by the Organization for their government’s role in the ongoing Russian/Ukraine conflict which has left many dead.

WLA President Rebecca Paul said since they were asked to denounce their role and prove that revenue generated was not being used to fund the war were not adhered to they must face the consequences.

It has also tasked lottery bodies in the world to take a firm stance on illegal lottery activities which according to the Association caused a loss of revenue of a total of 1.8 trillion dollars in 2022 alone.

At this year’s World Lottery Summit held in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, the association charged member countries to do more on responsible gaming and good causes.

Ghana’s National Lottery Authority (NLA) itself has been battling illegal lottery activities for some time now and the Authority has been determined to increase its clamp down with new measures put in place by the current Director-General.

The NLA has, a little over a year, launched its charity arm, the ‘Good Causes Foundation’, which has the objective to develop, implement and maintain an integrated action plan based on four main pillars – education, health, youth and sports development, and culture

Ghana is being represented at WLA Summit by the NLA boss, Mr Sammi Awuku and Dr George Gyamfi-Osew the immediate past Director of Operations of the Authority.

The World Lottery Authority (WLA) holds its meetings every two years but could not hold the 2020 event after the Buenos Aires, Argentina ?? in November 2018 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The meetings amongst other things take stock of the various member countries’ programs, Regional reports, suspensions and expulsions from the Association.

Again, it is also to consider new members who meet the criteria and to promote Responsible Gaming and Good Causes within the various Lottery Bodies.

This year’s summit was held in Vancouver, British Columbia was attended by over 1,000 delegates drawn from various continents.

Suspension of Russia and Belarus

This year, two lottery bodies from Russia and Belarus were suspended by the Organization for their government’s role in the ongoing Russian/Ukraine conflict which has left many dead.

Speaking at the event, the Director General of the Authority, Samuel Awuku, said the organisation has outlined series of activities over the next three months, to commemorate its 60th anniversary.

He added that the month of October will be dedicated to NLA’s cherished customers, “whom we recognise as our most valued assets.”

For the month of November, Mr Awuku said it will be pinned for their good causes, adding that, the 60th anniversary will be climaxed with a Grand Durbar of the Anniversary Celebration in December, which will be held concurrently with a conference on responsible gaming “as we host the African Lotteries Association (ALA).”

He indicated that in the month the Authority will give back to society by commissioning some Projects, in various parts of the country.

The NLA boss further touched on the history of Lottery in Ghana, tracing it back to the Roman Empire, in the year 1434 in Europe.

He told about how Mr Komla Gbedemah, the then Finance Minister, stumbled across a lottery, while on an official visit to the Republic of Malta in the Southern part of Europe, culminating in the birth of the NLA.

“As the story goes, Mr. Gbedemah informed the then Prime Minister, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah on his return, who in turn sent envoys to Malta to understudy the lottery, and requested the Maltese government to help Ghana set up its own lottery body.  In granting that request, the Maltese government seconded, Mr. William Francis Brennan, an Officer of the Malta Public Lotteries Department, to assist Ghana set up the Department of National Lotteries (DNL). Mr. Brennan was thus the Department’s first Director-General,” he said.

He said, after the establishment of the NLA some years ago, NLA can confidently boast of exemplifying its mandate to make all stakeholders ultimate winners.

He said: “It has been 60 Years of generating revenue for national development, 60 years of touching lives, communities, and institutions and 60 years of making our patrons millionaires.”

He maintained that, while NLA has had its fair share of challenges in this 60-year journey, the reforms, policies, and decisions taken by successive Boards and Director-Generals have helped shaped the organisation into what it is today.

Furthermore, he commended all the Boards, Director-Generals, Directors, Management, and Staff, both past, and present, who have worked tirelessly to keep the NLA afloat.

Mr Awuku also displayed some of the good causes of the NLA, where the organisation provided social amenities and equipment to organisations, individuals and entities that need a social need to thrive.

Present at the occasion were Board Chairman NLA and Member Council of State, His Eminence Tobge Francis Nyonyo, Deputy Finance Minister, Dr John Kumah, Maltese High Commissioner to Ghana – H.E Jean Claude Galea Mallia, and Minister of Defence, Dominic Aduna Bingh Nitiwul.

The list continues with Lotto Marketing Companies (LMCs) Chairman, Mr Francis Opoku, Director General – Lonaci, and President of African Lottery Mr. Dramane Coulibaly, Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Hon. Godfred Yeboah Dame Esq and Ms. Crystle Asa-Eck.

Meanwhile, the Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Godfred Odame in a goodwill message lauded the NLA on their 60 years milestone.

He added that if NLA were a person, he or she would have been in their retiring age.

He also noted that, the lottery is a celebration of the partnership between NLA and its patrons in an effort to give each and every member an exceptional lifetime opportunity to better their lives.

Over the last year, the Authority has been embarking on a restructuring exercise to drive efficiency and rebuild our corporate image. One of the initiative was the relaunch of the Caritas Lottery Platform.

This, according to the Board Chairman of NLA, Togbe Francis Nyonyo Agboada, is a demonstration of the Authority’s resolve to deepen partnership with Corporate Ghana.

“We have successfully licensed some Private Lotto Operators, (PLOs) and look forward to welcoming more on board.  The security services together with the NLA task force will continue to clamp down on defaulters to sanitize the lottery industry. We are also in the process of signing on some more Collaborators who will introduce some exciting new games for our cherished patrons.  By the end of the year, we should take delivery of our modern machines, which purchase was done in accordance with the standards of the World Lottery Association (WLA).”

On his part, the Minister for Defence, Dominic Nitiwul said as members of the family, VAG has benefited from support from proceeds from the NLA VAG lottery game.

He said his ministry would continue to explore more avenues of partnership with the NLA in bettering the lives of his men.

The event climaxed successfully with the unveiling of the 60th anniversary logo and cloth, and the cutting of cake.

According to the NLA, the termination was as a result of concerns raised over the quality of production after its new Director-General, Samuel Awuku assumed office.

The services, according to the NLA, were not giving them value for money and Mr Awuku, therefore, had to engage the technical crew to invite their Management for a meeting on the concerns.

“Management of GTV never showed up for any meeting after several invitations through its technical crew neither did engagements with the technical crew yield any result.

“NLA, therefore, decided to terminate the contract in accordance with the provisions of Clause 15.0,11.1a of the Contract between GBC and NLA which enjoins any of the parties with the right of termination,” NLA explained in a statement.

This follows questions raised by media personality, Kwasi Kyei Darkwah, (KKD) on why a private media outfit, United Television (UTV) was chosen over GTV.

But to NLA though it is sympathetic to the state-owned media, they were at the time seeking to grow its audience to increase its revenue base for national development and thus needed to discuss these issues.

“NLA, therefore, took steps to engage another Ghanaian-owned Television Station, United Television which had national coverage and viewership and appealed the most to its target audience. UTV’s contract is for a period of one year from December 2021 to December 2022.

“At the time of engagement with UTV, it was the second highest station with national coverage and viewership according to the 2019 media data research by geopoll.com, a research website that provides remote mobile-based research in Africa, Asia and Latin America,” NLA noted.

The authority explained apart from its national coverage and high viewership, UTV was the television station that simultaneously appealed to NLA’s target audience, particularly Lotto Marketing Companies, Private Lotto Operators, and was willing to give the Authority a similar deal with greater returns.”

Below is the full statement: