The Gaming Commission of Ghana has officially launched its 20th Anniversary celebrations in Accra themed, “The Gaming Commission of Ghana at 20: Honouring Our Past, Innovating Our Future in a Digital World.”
The event, held on May 15, 2026, brought together government officials, regulators, gaming operators, security agencies, and stakeholders within the gaming industry, to reflect on the Commission’s achievements over the past two decades.
Delivering the keynote address, the Presidential Advisor on the Economy, Hon. Seth Terkper, commended the Commission for its efforts in promoting responsible gaming practices and strengthening regulatory oversight within the industry.
He urged the Commission to intensify its interventions aimed at protecting young people, particularly in light of the increasing growth of online and mobile gaming platforms. “I am encouraged by the Commission’s intensified sensitization programmes, enforcement activities, and self-exclusion initiatives across the country,” he stated.
Touching on the economic contribution of the gaming sector, Hon. Terkper noted that the industry continues to play an important role within Ghana’s evolving economic landscape.
“As Government advances its flagship 24-Hour Economy Policy, the gaming industry remains one of the sectors already operating within a continuous economic cycle. The task before the Gaming Commission is therefore not only to regulate the industry, but also to shape its expansion, strengthen investor confidence, and promote long-term economic stability,” he added.
The Presidential Advisor further applauded the Commission’s expansion drive and adoption of data-driven regulatory approaches, describing the institution as a modern regulator positioning itself to support innovation, responsible investment, and national development.
Representing the Minister of the Interior, Hon. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, Deputy Minister of the Interior, described the occasion as both a celebration of institutional growth and a moment of reflection on regulatory progress and governance within the gaming industry.
He commended the Commission for embracing data and technology to strengthen oversight and improve operational efficiency.
“I am encouraged by how the Commission is integrating data into its oversight systems and prioritising responsible gaming reforms. These efforts demonstrate a regulator that is adapting to modern realities and positioning itself for the future,” he noted.
Hon. Terlabi also highlighted government’s concerns regarding illegal online gaming platforms, youth exposure to gambling content, gaming addiction, and illicit financial activities linked to the industry. He called for stronger collaboration among the Commission, security agencies, and gaming operators to address these emerging challenges.
The Board Chair of the Commission and Member of Parliament for Tema West, Hon. James Enu, acknowledged the contributions of past and present leadership, staff, and stakeholders to the growth of the Commission over the years.
He reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to strengthening corporate governance, enhancing regulatory systems, improving transparency, and supporting reforms that promote effective enforcement and responsible gaming practices.
The Ag. Gaming Commissioner, Mr. Emmanuel Siisi Quainoo, highlighted key milestones achieved by the Commission since its establishment in 2006. “A major milestone in our journey has been decentralisation. From a single office in Accra in 2006, we expanded in 2016 to zonal offices in Kasoa, Kumasi, and Tamale, and more recently to Agona Swedru, Ho, Asante Bekwai, and Sefwi Wiawso. This expansion has strengthened compliance and brought regulation closer to the people,” he stated.
Mr. Quainoo also reiterated the Commission’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, particularly young people, from gaming-related harm. “The Commission is fully aware of growing public concerns regarding gambling addiction. As a regulator, our mission is to implement sound measures that promote public interest, ensure safety, and enhance industry efficiency. Responsible gaming sensitization in schools therefore remains a major priority for the Commission,” he added.
He further outlined activities planned for the year-long anniversary celebration and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to building a safe, transparent, and sustainable gaming industry. “As we mark twenty years of honouring our past, we move forward with purpose and determination to build a gaming industry that is safe, transparent, and sustainable. Together, we will continue to shape the future,” he said.
The event also featured goodwill messages from agencies under the Ministry of the Interior and associations within the gaming industry.
