While gambling is still restricted in many parts of Africa, the republic of Ghana permits both land-based and online casinos, as well other forms of betting, and shares similar regulations to those in the United Kingdom.
Just like in the United Kingdom, the online gambling industry is growing in Ghana at a fast rate, with many large international casino brands as well as Ghanaian based gambling businesses. Here we look at how online gambling is regulated in both countries and how their gambling scenes compare with one another:
Legalities and regulation of online and offline gambling
The 1960 Lotteries and Betting Act was the principal legislation for gambling in Ghana until it was replaced by the 2006 Gaming Act, which legalised online gambling too. Land based casinos and bookmakers have been operating in Ghana for many years and many of those that visit these venues now enjoy gaming and betting online also.
Following the passing of the 2006 Gaming Act, the Gaming Commission of Ghana was set up. The commission is responsible for issuing licences to gaming operators and ensures those running gambling promotions do so responsibly. They also carry out inspections of gambling premises and generate revenue through charging operators’ levies.
In the United Kingdom, all forms of online gambling and land based casinos and bookmakers are also legal and regulated. Like Ghana, the legal minimum gambling age is 18 and operators must obtain a licence from the UK Gambling Commission.
The first gambling regulations were also introduced in the UK in 1960, the Gambling Act of 2005 and the Act of 2014 have provided updates and permit online casinos and sports betting sites.
In both countries, both residents and tourists are able to enjoy all forms of gambling activities.
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