In a significant move to address the growing concerns of mental health and gaming addiction in Ghana, Hon. Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Member of Parliament for Korle Klottey on Friday 25th April, 2025 joined a special session of the Gaming Commission’s Mental Health Committee, to discuss strategies ahead of the annual Purple Month celebration in May.
Held at the Gaming Commission’s offices, the Ag. Gaming Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo welcomed the Member of Parliament and applauded her vocal advocacy for mental health issues and invited her to partner the Commission for its advocacy and outreach activities on the subject matter. He further briefed the team on activities the Commission had earmarked to execute during the month.
Dr. Zenator expressed serious concern about rising addiction cases including gambling and substance abuse, especially in her constituency. She welcomed the Commission’s invitation for partnership in outreach activities during the Purple Month, to raise awareness on, and educate her constituents, the youth and the public on gaming addiction. She also applauded the Commission on its efforts to kick-start the construction of a gaming help center, for persons addicted to gaming.
The Commission’s Purple Month celebration is themed, “Promoting Mental Health Through Responsible Gaming.” The initiative aims to raise awareness on gambling addiction, promote responsible gaming practices, offer counseling services, and train Staff of the Commission on mental health issues. The activities will target tertiary students, gaming operators, players, mental health professionals, and the general public, with special focus on institutions like the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) and Accra Technical University.
A highlight of the meeting was a presentation by author and rehabilitated substance addict, John Asogonnde, who candidly shared his story to underscore the severe consequences of gambling addiction. He likened the grip of gaming addiction to that of drug use, calling for more rehabilitation centers and national efforts to destigmatize addiction through schools and media. The meeting brought together members of the Audit Committee and the Commission’s Mental Health Committee.
