National Lottery Authority Director-General, Mohammed Abdul-Salam, has called for stronger international cooperation to combat illegal gambling, warning that the practice is draining public revenues and undermining development across Africa.

Speaking at the European Lotteries Industry Days 2026 in Marrakesh, Abdul-Salam urged members of the European Lotteries and African Lotteries Association to intensify efforts to curb unregulated operators.

“The fight against illegal gambling must be relentless to protect economies and citizens from substantial revenue losses,” he told more than 200 participants from Europe and Africa.

The event, running from 7 June to 10 under the theme “Lotteries Bridging Continents”, is focused on strengthening collaboration, promoting responsible gaming, and sharing strategies to tackle illegal gambling and digital risks in the sector.

European Lotteries President Romana Girandon said member organisations were collectively contributing over 29 billion euros to society and stressed the need for a unified approach to responsible gaming.

She also announced work on a new framework to guide member countries.

African Lotteries Association Secretary-General Omar Skalli said African and European markets face similar regulatory challenges, adding that the forum provides a platform for shared solutions.

Abdul-Salam, who also serves as ALA vice-president, said countries such as Ghana, Benin and South Africa were losing significant revenue to illegal operators, estimating Ghana’s losses at over $85 million annually.

He outlined Ghana’s response measures, including digital monitoring systems, improved enforcement tools, and proposed legal reforms to strengthen regulatory oversight.

He said revenues lost to illegal gambling could otherwise fund education, healthcare and community development projects.