Syndicated Entertainment Solution (SES), has partnered the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and the Gaming Commission to officially launch the novel Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards, intended to recognize and promote compliant and responsible gaming for players in the lottery and gaming industry.
The Awards, according to SES, will encourage stakeholders in the gaming and lottery industry to be people and national development centered by ensuring responsible participation in the gaming space.
Director of SES, Manuella Frempomaa Ansong, at the launch of the Award scheme on June 28, 2024 in Accra, explained that recognizing excellence in the gaming and lottery sector is essential for fostering innovation, promoting responsible gaming practices, and acknowledging outstanding contributions to the industry.
“In partnership with the NLA and the Gaming Commission, we aim to create a prestigious event that celebrates achievements across various categories within the industry. By collaborating with the regulatory bodies, we ensure the credibility and integrity of the Awards” she said.
Ms Ansong clarified that gaming and lottery, much like any other form of entertainment, can bring excitement and joy. She however explained it is essential that the industry remains controlled, and free from the negative impacts that can arise through non-compliance.
Director General of the NLA, Mr Sammie Awuku, speaking at the ceremony, described the launch of the Awards as novel and a ground-breaking initiative, that will encourage all stakeholders to comply with applicable regulations and best international practices in the gaming and lottery space.
Mr Awuku commended SES and said the Awards scheme will project the contributions of the industry to the Ghanaian society, demystify the myths about the game, and highlight the nuances that make up the game’s mechanics and dynamics.
“The NLA is also excited that the most significant stakeholders in the gaming and lottery industry, retailers, operators, and agents who have worked diligently to promote the game over the years, will be exceptionally rewarded for their loyalty through the scheme” Mr Awuku said.
While the Gaming and Lottery Awards seek to honour persons practising responsible gaming compliance, the Awards, according to the NLA boss, is as well expected to expose and discourage activities of perpetrators of illegal lottery operations.
“Together with the Gaming Commission, we are committed to ensure the success the of the Gaming and Lottery Awards and make it a viable reward platform for our stakeholders” Mr Awuku assured.
Commissioner of the Gaming Commission of Ghana, Mr Peter Mireku, addressing guests at the launch, underscored the crucial role the gaming and lottery industry play in ensuring national development.
He said, recognizing excellence in the sector is vital for fostering innovation and promoting responsible practices which is essential for halting the stigma associated with the industry.
“The vision to encourage stakeholders to focus on people and national development is something we at the Gaming Commission wholeheartedly support. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our co-regulator, the NLA for this collaboration that seek to create a safe and compliance-oriented industry” Mr Mireku indicated.
The first Ghana Gaming and Lottery Awards ceremony, is slated for September this year according to SES.
SES and its partners, the NLA and the Gaming Commission have inaugurated a 7-member evaluation committee for the Awards.
The committee includes, a representative each from the NLA and the Gaming Commission, two experts in the gaming and lottery sector, a recognized auditor, a lawyer and an external member from the European Lotteries.
