Kofi Adams, Minister of Sports and Recreation, has proposed that proceeds from the betting tax be transferred into a designated sports fund to help the country’s sporting sector.
Mr. Adams believes that directing a portion of the tax revenue to the fund is critical to the country’s long-term progress in sports.
The Buem constituency MP also revealed plans to launch a sports lottery as an extra funding source for the sector.
“I believe the moment has come to get this done. A percentage of the wager stake tax should go to the sports fund. “We will start a sports lottery,” he said on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
Mr. Adams also emphasized the necessity for a structured sports fund, citing previous government programs such as the GETFund for education and the Health Fund established during President Rawlings’ administration.
“During President Rawlings’ administration, we established the GETFund for education and the Health Fund to address health-related challenges. We must acknowledge the importance of sports. Investing in sports can help prevent diseases by encouraging physical activity and other activities,” he stated.
Meanwhile, various stakeholders continue to advocate for additional funding to improve facilities, athlete development, and overall sports management.
However, this idea contradicts the Mahama-led government’s position, since Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has stated that the betting tax will be eliminated in the upcoming budget presentation to Parliament.
