Ghana’s civil society organizations (CSOs) are mounting pressure on President John Mahama’s administration to reverse its decision to abolish the 10% betting tax, introduced in 2023 as part of broader fiscal reforms. The move, intended to eliminate so-called “nuisance taxes,” has drawn sharp criticism from advocacy groups, including the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) and health-focused NGOs, who warn that scrapping the tax could fuel problem gambling, drain government revenue, and endanger youth welfare.
A Controversial Fiscal Decision
While officials claim that scrapping the 10% betting tax will ease financial pressure on businesses, critics warn it could cost the state millions in revenue and weaken protections against problem gambling. Public health advocates argue that the tax acts as a necessary deterrent, especially for vulnerable groups. The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) proposes reducing the tax to 5% as a middle ground. However, civil society groups like Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development and the Ghana NCD Alliance demand that the tax be retained or even increased to address gambling-related harms.
Ghana Faces Rising Tide of Online Sports Betting Among Youth
Labram Musah of the Ghana NCD Alliance warns of a troubling surge in sports betting: 41.7% of Ghanaians bet last year, with 95% doing so online. Young adults (18–35) dominate participation, driven largely by hopes of financial gain. A 2024 study showed 74.17% bet for profit, raising red flags about gambling addiction, debt, and mental health issues. Advocates now call for targeted taxation as a tool to curb harm and strengthen regulation.
Call for Evidence-Based Policy
Civil society organizations are urging the government to rethink its approach to gambling regulation. They advocate for a comprehensive review of gambling’s social and economic effects, alignment with international harm-reduction standards, and stronger youth protection measures.
“This isn’t just about revenue; it’s about safeguarding Ghana’s future,” said Labram Musah of the Ghana NCD Alliance. “Without this tax, we’re essentially giving a green light to an industry that preys on desperation.”
Ghana’s Betting Tax Debate Heats Up
As pressure mounts, the government must decide whether to scrap the betting tax—potentially sparking public backlash and fueling social harms—or adopt a more balanced approach that combines fiscal relief with responsible gambling safeguards.
With addiction and inequality on the rise, civil society groups vow to keep fighting for policies that prioritize citizens over profits.
