CAF 2nd Vice-President and Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, on Tuesday officially opened the CAF Safe Stadium Initiative workshop at the GFA Headquarters in Accra.

The three-day programme seeks to strengthen stadium safety and security in Ghana and across African football.

Welcoming participants on behalf of CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, Simeon-Okraku underscored the need to create secure environments for players, fans, and stakeholders.

“Since our President took office, one of his foremost promises has been to deliver football in a very safe environment for all consumers of our sport,” he said.

“It is always important for CAF, working closely with our Member Associations, to share knowledge that will help ensure lives and property are protected at all CAF-organised events.”

Reflecting on the 2001 Accra Sports Stadium disaster, the GFA boss urged participants to “close the gaps” and ensure that football is delivered safely and responsibly.

The workshop has brought together Safety and Security Officers from all 18 Premier League clubs, members of the GFA Security Committee, and 16 Regional Sports Police Officers.

Led by CAF experts Xololi Nokithula Vilakati and Sylvanus Obi, the sessions will cover critical areas including:


  • Safety regulations and compliance


  • Accreditation and access control


  • Crowd management strategies


  • Matchday security protocols

The initiative is part of CAF’s broader commitment to raising security standards across the continent and ensuring that African football is enjoyed in a safe and secure atmosphere.