Sports Minister Kofi Adams has proposed that revenue from the betting tax be allocated to a dedicated sports fund to support the growth and development of the country’s sporting sector.
He emphasized that directing a portion of the tax into this fund would ensure long-term sustainability for sports in Ghana.
Additionally, the Buem constituency MP revealed plans to introduce a sports lottery as another means of generating revenue to further strengthen the sector.
“I believe the time has come for this to be done. A percentage of the bet stake tax should be allocated to the sports fund. We will introduce a sports lottery,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
Mr. Adams further highlighted the need for a structured sports fund, drawing comparisons to past government initiatives such as the GETFund for education and the Health Fund established during President Rawlings’ administration.
“We established GETFund for education and the Health Fund to support health issues during President Rawlings’ era. We must recognize the importance of sports. Investing in sports can reduce diseases by promoting physical exercises and other activities,” he explained.
Meanwhile, various stakeholders are advocating for greater financial investment to enhance sports infrastructure, athlete development, and overall management of the sector.
However, this proposal differs from the Mahama administration’s position, as Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has announced plans to abolish the betting tax in the upcoming budget presentation to Parliament.