Minister of Sports and Recreations, Kofi Adams, has suggested that the betting tax should be directed into the sports fund to help finance and foster the growth of sports.
Adams proposed allocating a percentage of the betting tax revenue to the sports fund, arguing that a sustainable funding structure is crucial for the growth of the country’s sporting sector.
He also revealed plans to introduce a sports lottery as another means of generating consistent revenue for 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.
The Buem Member of Parliament emphasized the need to establish a dedicated sports fund, similar to how past governments created funds for education and health.
“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.
His comments come at a time when Ghanaian sports stakeholders have been advocating for increased financial support to enhance infrastructure, athlete development, and overall sports administration.
However, the proposal is in contrast with the Mahama-led government commitment and the finance minister, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson’s comment that the betting tax will be abolished in the next budget reading at parliament.
