Michael Harry Yamson is the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund
The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Michael Harry Yamson, has advised Ghanaians, particularly the youth, not to view betting as a source of income, insisting it is meant purely for leisure.
His caution follows public outcries following the scrapping of taxes on betting winnings — a move that Civil Society Organizations and religious groups warn could fuel gambling, particularly among young people.
Speaking in an interview with Citi News, Yamson defended the government’s position, stating that the removal of the tax is aimed at supporting the growth of the betting industry, not encouraging irresponsible behaviour.
“The Betting Tax was seen as frustrating an industry, and we have removed it to drive that industry and to drive the volume of economic activity in that sector.
“That said, the idea is not to increase irresponsible behavior. What we firmly believe is that betting is a leisure activity; betting is not meant to be a livelihood. And so we subscribe to the removal of the Betting Tax, at the same time, we are careful to make it clear that betting is a leisure activity — it is not meant to be something that becomes the livelihood of anybody,” he stated.
Yamson also called on betting companies to strictly enforce age restrictions, warning that access by minors remains a serious concern.
He added that the government will partner with stakeholders in the tech sector to introduce digital safeguards, including the use of the Ghana Card, to block underage users from betting online.
The debate around betting taxes continues to stir national attention, with critics arguing that the policy reversal could worsen addiction and social problems among the youth.
VA/AE
Meanwhile, watch how Annor-Dompreh slams IGP over promise to recruit Bawku residents:
