Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and CAF 2nd Vice-President, has reaffirmed the FA’s commitment to raising officiating standards and nurturing the next generation of referees in Ghana.

Speaking at the launch of the GFA’s new insurance policy for referees on Tuesday in Accra, Okraku described the initiative as a landmark welfare intervention for officials across the Premier League, Division One League, and Women’s Premier League.

Key Reforms Over the Past Year

According to Okraku, the past year has seen deliberate and far-reaching reforms aimed at strengthening officiating nationwide:


  • Capacity-building programmes: National and regional refresher courses, technical and theoretical workshops.

  • Fitness assessments: Mandatory tests to ensure referees meet physical standards.

  • Performance-based appointments: Enhanced evaluation systems to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability.

  • Video analysis integration: Powerful tools for reviewing performances and driving continuous improvement.

“These interventions are gradually transforming our refereeing landscape, ensuring that officials have the knowledge, conditioning, and feedback required to excel,” Okraku said.

Inclusivity and Talent Development

The GFA President also highlighted:


  • Rise in female participation at elite levels of officiating, which he described as “encouraging and necessary.”

  • The Catch Them Young initiative, which identifies and grooms promising referees nationwide, providing uniforms, whistles, flags, cards, and structured mentorship.
Broader Vision

Okraku emphasized that these investments in training, welfare, and inclusivity form part of the FA’s broader mission to build a new generation of skilled, confident, and respected match officials capable of performing at the highest levels with integrity and professionalism.