Young Ghanaians have been urged to rethink their growing reliance on betting as a source of income, as the Administrator of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), Michael Harry Yamson, has called for responsible behaviour in light of recent policy changes. His caution comes after government scrapped taxes on betting winnings, a move that has sparked wide debate across the country.
Mr Yamson, in an interview with Citi News, made it clear that betting is meant for entertainment and not as a primary means of earning a living. While acknowledging that the betting industry plays a role in stimulating economic activity, he expressed concern that some youths may misinterpret the tax policy change as an endorsement of gambling as a career.
He explained that the removal of the betting tax is part of government’s strategy to support the sector’s economic potential, not to encourage dependency. According to him, the betting tax had been seen as a hindrance to industry growth, hence its removal aims to create a more enabling environment. However, he stressed the importance of balancing this with public awareness to avoid a rise in irresponsible gambling habits.
Mr Yamson firmly stated that betting must remain a leisure activity. He described it as a form of recreation that should not replace hard work, innovation, or education. For many civil society groups and faith-based organisations, the tax removal raises fears of increased addiction among the youth. Mr Yamson reassured the public that the government does not support any misuse of betting platforms.
He also raised serious concerns over the participation of minors in betting, describing it as a major societal issue. He urged betting operators across the country to strictly comply with laws barring underage individuals from gambling. Reports of children as young as ten gaining access to betting sites have raised alarms, prompting calls for stronger regulation and enforcement.
In response, the DACF boss revealed plans to collaborate with technology stakeholders to tackle the problem. A key initiative under consideration is the integration of the Ghana Card into betting platforms. This, he believes, will act as a digital safeguard, preventing minors from accessing these platforms online.
He emphasised the need for collective effort involving regulators, betting companies, and digital service providers to ensure the safety of young people. By incorporating identity verification systems such as the Ghana Card, online platforms can better monitor user age and identity before allowing access.
The Administrator’s remarks highlight a broader national conversation around youth empowerment, economic sustainability, and responsible policy implementation. While the betting industry can offer entertainment and job opportunities, its regulation and responsible use remain critical. Mr Yamson’s message serves as a timely reminder that sustainable development depends on creating opportunities that are rooted in skill, discipline, and innovation, rather than chance.