The National Lottery Authority (NLA) of Ghana is now an official Observer Member of the European Lotteries (EL).
This exciting development took effect on June 17, 2024.
The decision was made unanimously by the 45 member countries present at the EL Industry Days Seminar held in Salzburg, Austria.
This achievement follows a successful application process initiated by NLA Director-General, Mr. Samuel Awuku.
Mr. Awuku’s strong presentation at the EL Public Seminar in Brussels earlier this year impressed the organization.
He was invited to discuss illegal gambling in Ghana and subsequently made a case for NLA membership. The EL Secretary General then requested a formal application, including financial statements, charitable spending details, and responsible gaming certification.
Having met all the requirements, the NLA is now the second African nation (after Morocco) to hold Observer Member status in the EL, bringing the total to four. These include organizations from Kazakhstan and Morocco.
This Observer status grants the NLA and its stakeholders valuable access to EL training programs, capacity building initiatives, and exchange programs focused on best practices in the lottery industry.
The EL boasts a presence in 39 European countries with a total of 70 members. Half operate within the European Union, while the remaining 20 are from non-EU member states.
NLA Director-General, Mr. Awuku, expressed his gratitude to the EL for this opportunity. He believes it will significantly enhance NLA operations and solidify their international standing.
The NLA aspires to become the leading lottery organization in Africa and beyond, and this membership is a crucial step in that direction.
Mr. Awuku also commended his dedicated team, including the Governing Board, management, and staff, for their collective effort in achieving this significant milestone for the NLA brand, which has seen remarkable growth in recent years.
Representatives from the World Lottery Association (WLA), including President Ms. Rebeccah Paul and General Secretary Ms. Lynne Roiter, were also present at the meeting.
