Dr. Kobby Boateng, GHASBO: “We want to tackle the reach of illegal operators through stronger enforcement and greater awareness”

In an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News, Dr. Kobby Boateng, President of the Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operators (GHASBO), discussed growth projections, responsible gaming, regulation and tackling illegal operators.

Exclusive interview.- Ghana’s gambling industry is evolving quickly, shaped by new regulations, shifting taxation policies, and the growing influence of technology. To better understand these dynamics, Focus Gaming News spoke to Dr. Kobby Boateng, president of the Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operators (GHASBO).

In this exclusive interview, Dr. Boateng shares his insights on the sector’s growth potential, the impact of recent policy changes, measures to ensure responsible gaming, and the ongoing fight against illegal operators, while outlining GHASBO’s priorities for building a sustainable and well-regulated market.

In 2024, Ghana’s online gambling industry was said to be worth approximately US$57m and projected to grow to US$74m by 2029. How do you see things at the moment, based on the current conditions? Do you think this projection is realistic?

There are some grey areas that certain companies are trying to exploit. This came about with the imposition of the withholding tax and other issues; some punters were attempting to dodge these taxes, and as a result, the industry was losing some ground to outsiders instead of expanding internally.

That said, I believe growth will happen. Every year, more people in Ghana reach the betting age, and with unemployment challenges, many see betting as a way to gain some advantage. Given these factors, I can foresee the growth of the industry, if not beyond what is projected.

Of course, responsible gaming is essential. Growth must not come at the cost of negative consequences.

“Responsible gaming is essential. Growth must not come at the cost of negative consequences.”

Dr. Kobby Boateng, president of the Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operators (GHASBO).

We’ve seen the recent repeal of the 10 per cent tax on betting and lottery winnings. What are the consequences of that?

The repeal has been very positive — for operators, for the government, and for customers. Customers were being taxed on their own earnings, which was not well-received. Now, don’t forget that operators still face a 20 per cent GGR tax, which remains, but the removal of the winnings tax has greatly boosted customer engagement.

Tell us about the measures GHASBO is undertaking to promote responsible gaming.

It’s imperative that all operators promote responsible gaming across their platforms — advertising the correct age for participation, and implementing verification systems. We use KYC procedures to prevent underage gambling, and soon the National Identification Authority (NIA) will be directly involved in the verification system, moving beyond third parties.

We also offer self-exclusion tools and deactivation options on certain platforms, so that customers can take control if they feel they’re developing a problem. Additionally, we limit deposits and work closely with those who seek help. Together with the Gaming Commission, we are developing a 24-hour support line with designated doctors to provide consultation for those facing gambling-related challenges.

And when it comes to challenges posed by technological advances in the fight against illegal gambling, how do you stay up to date?

The association is working seriously on this. We’re setting up a joint committee with multiple stakeholders, including fintech companies, the Bank of Ghana, and the National Communications Authority. Fighting illegal operators can’t be done by the Commission or the operators alone — we need a consolidated platform with all these actors involved. Once implemented, it will allow us to block unlicensed operators from engaging Ghanaian players.

How would you describe the working relationship between GHASBO and the Gaming Commission of Ghana? Is there potential for more collaboration?

Yes. The Commission has recognised that it needs the operators, just as we need them. We’ve had many discussions, and although not every issue has been resolved — such as licence fees and dollar-denominated charges, or branch fees for retail operators — the new Commission is engaging positively, especially regarding employment. Overall, we have a very good working relationship with the board and management.

“The Commission has recognised that it needs the operators, just as we need them.”

Dr. Kobby Boateng, president of the Ghana Association of Sports Betting Operators (GHASBO).

Could you tell us a little about GHASBO’s main priorities for the coming years? What does an ideal, sustainable, well-regulated gambling market in Ghana look like from your perspective?

First, we want to tackle the reach of illegal operators through stronger enforcement and greater awareness. Legal operators invest heavily in marketing and pay significant taxes, so it’s crucial to protect local revenues.

We’re also advocating for reform of regulatory fees, addressing dollarisation, and introducing payment plans to reduce pressure on struggling companies.

Another priority is to create a standardised, sustainable market. Expansion must be controlled — too many operators competing for the same market share risks forcing some out entirely.

Additionally, we want to promote incentives for local operators. The market today is dominated by foreign groups, and we want Ghanaian entrepreneurs to have a greater stake, keeping revenues within the country.

Finally, promoting responsible gaming is central: developing education and awareness programs, working with the media, and especially teaching young people to avoid gambling until they are of age.

We’re also in discussions with the government on the proposed Gaming Monitoring Assurance System. Once implemented, it will provide reliable compliance and data, improving transparency in the sector.