GFA President Kurt Okraku reasserts strong commitment to referee integrity and welfare

The President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has called for renewed commitment to integrity, professionalism and public trust in Ghanaian refereeing as he launched a landmark insurance policy for match officials across the country’s top competitions.

Addressing stakeholders at the ceremony, President Simeon-Okraku acknowledged the progress made in developing and supporting referees but stressed that important challenges still need to be confronted. “While we celebrate these achievements, we must also confront the challenges that remain,” he stated.

He highlighted concerns surrounding public perception and integrity, issues that continue to generate suspicion and, at times, unfair criticism of match officials.

“Issues of integrity and public perception continue to cast unwarranted shadows over the hard work of our referees,” he said. “Allegations, sometimes real, sometimes imagined, damage the credibility of our competitions and erode public trust. We cannot ignore this. We must work harder to ensure that our referees are not only impartial but are seen to be impartial.”

The GFA President underscored that the newly launched insurance scheme marks more than a welfare milestone; it symbolizes a new chapter of dignity, protection and assurance for referees nationwide. “Today’s launch signals the beginning of a new era—a future where Ghanaian referees can step onto the pitch with peace of mind, knowing that their health, safety, welfare and dignity are protected,” he affirmed.

He added that the initiative represents the fulfillment of a solemn pledge made to stakeholders at Congress, reinforcing the FA’s dedication to building a supportive and accountable refereeing environment. “This is our promise. This is our commitment. And this is our fulfillment of the pledge made at Congress.”

President Kurt Okraku concluded with a rallying call for collective effort and unity as Ghanaian football strives to strengthen its officiating framework and uphold the principles that define fair competition. “As we look to the future, let us move forward together, stronger, more united and more determined to build a football ecosystem where fairness, professionalism and welfare are upheld at the highest level.”

The launch of the insurance policy marks a significant step in safeguarding the wellbeing of referees and reaffirming the GFA’s commitment to enhancing confidence, credibility and integrity in Ghanaian football.

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