Samuel Awuku, former Director-General of the National Lottery Authority ((NLA), advocates for the transparent allocation of lottery funds to specific national projects, drawing inspiration from successful global models.
Awuku emphasizes the need for accountability and highlights the significant role lotteries play in supporting good causes worldwide while speaking as a panellist at the World Lottery Association (WLA) and European Lotteries conference in Spain.
“I advocate that we should target these funds towards specific causes like healthcare or education so that the players who contribute know exactly where their money is going,”
Adding that, “This way, we ensure that lottery funds are being used effectively to serve the public good."
Mr Awuku also highlighted the global impact of lottery revenue, with member bodies contributing over $90 billion to good causes worldwide in 2024.
“Member bodies alone contributed over $90 billion last year to promote good causes around the world,” he noted.
He used examples from the Great Wall of China and the UK’s Olympic Games to show how lottery funds have supported large-scale national projects.
“Part of the City of Miami was built through the process of lottery. So why can’t Ghana follow that model?” he asked.
Awuku’s call for a more targeted use of lottery funds was complemented by his urging for greater accountability.
“We need to track how much is being collected and ensure it reaches the people it is meant to benefit. The funds should not simply disappear into a general pot,” he stated.
