The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Michael Harry Yamson
The Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Michael Harry Yamson, has urged Ghanaians, particularly the youth, not to view betting as a source of income, emphasising that it is intended purely for leisure.
His caution comes in the wake of public concern following the government’s decision to scrap taxes on betting winnings, a move that civil society organizations and religious groups warn could exacerbate gambling addiction, especially among young people.
In an interview with Citi News, Yamson defended the government’s policy, stating that the removal of the tax is meant to support the growth of the betting industry, not to promote irresponsible behaviour.
“The betting tax was seen as a hindrance to the industry, and we removed it to stimulate growth and drive economic activity within that sector,” he explained.
“That said, the intention is not to encourage irresponsible behavior. We firmly believe that betting is a leisure activity, it is not meant to be a source of livelihood. While we support the removal of the betting tax, we are equally committed to making it clear that betting should not become a means of income for anyone,” he stressed.
Yamson also called on betting companies to strictly enforce age restrictions, warning that access by minors remains a major concern.
He revealed that the government plans to collaborate with stakeholders in the tech sector to introduce digital safeguards, such as the use of the Ghana Card, to prevent underage individuals from accessing betting platforms online.
The debate over betting taxes has continued to generate national attention, with critics arguing that the policy reversal could worsen addiction and increase social issues among the youth.
VA/EB
