NLA granted historic observer membership status by European Lotteries
For the first time in its history, the National Lottery Authority (NLA) of Ghana has been granted Observer Member status by European Lotteries (EL), effective June 17, 2024.
This significant decision was made at the General Assembly of the EL Industry Days Seminar, held in Salzburg, Austria, from June 16 to 19.
The 45 member countries present at the event voted unanimously to grant the NLA Observer Membership status.
As an Observer Member, the NLA and its stakeholders can now freely participate in EL trainings, capacity-building initiatives, and exchange programs on best practices for the development of the lottery industry.
This achievement follows a compelling pitch by the Director-General of NLA, Mr. Samuel Awuku, at the EL Public Seminar in Brussels in February 2024.
Mr. Awuku was invited to share perspectives on illegal gambling in Ghana, which led to his subsequent pitch for membership. Following this presentation, EL Secretary General Mr. Arjan Van T’ Veer requested the NLA to officially apply for Observer Membership.
This application process required the submission of the Authority’s financial statements, expenditure on good causes, and responsible gaming certification.
Having satisfied all criteria, the NLA is now officially an EL Observer Member.
NLA is the second African country to achieve this status, following Morocco, thus bringing the total number of EL Observer Members to four.
These members include Satty Zhuldyz JSC of Kazakhstan, Loterie Nationale Morocco, La Marocaine des Jeux et des Sports of Morocco, and the National Lottery Authority of Ghana.
EL operates in 39 countries in Europe, with a total of 70 members.
Of these, 50 members operate in EU Member States, while 20 members are in non-EU Member States.
Mr. Samuel Awuku expressed his gratitude to EL for this opportunity, believing it will enhance the NLA’s operations and elevate its international standing.
“This will strengthen our operations and position the NLA internationally as we pursue our vision to become the lottery organization of choice and blueprint in Africa and beyond,” Awuku stated.
He also praised the dedicated efforts of his team, led by the Governing Board and supported by management and staff, for achieving this milestone for the NLA brand, which has seen significant growth in recent years.
Also present at the meeting were World Lottery Association (WLA) officials, including President Ms. Rebeccah Paul and General Secretary Ms. Lynne Roiter.
