Biometric verification now mandatory to stamp out fraud, money laundering in gaming

The Gaming Commission of Ghana has moved to tighten control over the country’s betting and gambling industry with the introduction of mandatory biometric verification for all gaming transactions.

The directive, effective immediately, compels every licensed operator to authenticate participants through fingerprint or facial recognition before bets are placed and before winnings are withdrawn.

Under Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2111, the Ghana Card — issued by the National Identification Authority (NIA) — is now the sole accepted form of identification for any gaming activity. Operators are required to integrate their systems directly with the NIA database, with no provision for manual checks or alternative electronic IDs.

The Commission says the new measure is aimed at eliminating underage gambling, curbing fraud and money laundering, promoting responsible gaming, and aligning the sector with Ghana’s wider digital security agenda.

Licensed companies have been given 14 days to submit their integration plans to the NIA, and 30 days to fully deploy the biometric systems. Those failing to comply risk suspension or non-renewal of their operating licences.

Acting Gaming Commissioner, Emmanuel Siki Quainoo, stressed that the policy was necessary to protect both the public and the integrity of the gaming sector.

“This policy safeguards the gaming industry from criminal exploitation while ensuring responsible participation. We expect full cooperation from all operators,” he said.

The move will affect all betting shops, casinos and online gaming platforms, with customers now required to undergo biometric checks for every transaction. While the process may slow betting operations, the Commission insists it will enhance security, prevent abuse, and ensure greater accountability.

With this enforcement, Ghana joins countries such as South Africa and Kenya in adopting stringent identification controls over the gambling industry.

Read the attached press statement in full below:

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