Young Africans hit with transfer ban over outstanding payment to Augustine Okrah

Tanzanian club Young Africans SC (Yanga) has been slapped with a transfer ban by FIFA for failing to meet its financial obligations to Ghanaian forward Augustine Okrah.

The transfer ban stems from a previous ruling, which required Yanga to pay Okrah an outstanding amount of $24,400 for his time at the club. Despite FIFA’s directive, the club has not settled the debt, prompting disciplinary action.

In a letter dated November 11, 2024, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, under the leadership of Américo Espalargas, announced the ban.

Yanga will now be prohibited from registering new players for international transfers until the full amount owed to Okrah is paid.

FIFA has also instructed the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) to enforce a national registration ban, further emphasizing the need for compliance.

The timing of the ban is particularly challenging for Yanga, as the mid-season transfer window approaches.

This restriction could hinder the club's efforts to bolster its squad for both domestic and continental competitions.

To restore their ability to make signings and maintain their international standing, Yanga must resolve the financial dispute with Okrah promptly.

Okrah, who currently plays for Bechem United in Ghana, had a brief stint of just eight months at Yanga.