Current lottery Act should be amended to allow proceeds fund critical projects — Sammi Awuku

Samuel Awuku, Member of Parliament for Akuapem North and former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), has called for an amendment to the National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722) to allow lottery proceeds to be used for critical national development projects.

He believes this will enable the funds to directly impact key sectors such as health, education, and youth development.

Addressing Parliament on the challenges and opportunities in the country’s lottery sector, Sammi Awuku noted that although the NLA generates significant revenue annually, much of it is funneled into the Consolidated Fund, limiting its direct impact on targeted projects.

He urged lawmakers to consider revising the existing law to optimize the use of lottery proceeds for public good.

“I propose that the current National Lotto Act, 2006 (Act 722) be amended with the guidance of the Ministry of Finance to allow lottery proceeds meant for the Consolidated Fund to be used to support specific projects in critical sectors like health, education, and youth development,” he said.

Mr. Awuku highlighted the success stories of other countries that have effectively utilized lottery proceeds for development projects.

He cited the renovation of children’s hospitals in Greece, funding for disability programs in Spain, and improvements to public schools in the United States as examples of how lottery revenue can be transformative when directed toward national priorities.

In Ghana, he said, the NLA’s Good Causes Foundation has already impacted millions of lives by supporting initiatives in health, education, and youth and sports development.

He expressed optimism that an amendment to the current law would enable the foundation to do even more.

“Funds can also be directed toward social interventions for persons with disabilities, elderly citizens, and marginalized communities to improve livelihoods,” he added.