President of the Football Association, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has launched a groundbreaking insurance policy for referees, marking a historic advancement in welfare, protection, and professional support for match officials across Ghana’s domestic leagues.
The initiative, unveiled on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, fulfils a pledge he made during the 31st Ordinary Session of Congress held at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on August 12, 2025.
Speaking at the launching ceremony, the President described the move as “a significant milestone in the journey of our football,” emphasising the essential role referees play in safeguarding integrity within the sport.
Reflecting on the commitment made at Congress, Mr. Okraku reiterated his determination to improve the working environment of referees.
“On that day, I assured you that the Football Association under my humble leadership would take bold and deliberate steps to elevate referee welfare, strengthen officiating standards and provide the necessary protection and motivation for the men and women who uphold the integrity of the game,” he said.
He expressed immense pride in delivering on that promise, describing the policy as “a comprehensive welfare intervention designed to support, protect and empower our referees across all domestic competitions.”
All 280 referees operating in the Premier League, Division One League, and Women’s Premier League have been enrolled in the insurance scheme introduced by the GFA. The package includes Group Life Cover, Critical Illness Protection, Permanent Disability Compensation, Medical Expenses Support and Workmen’s Compensation
Additional complementary benefits extend coverage to referees’ families, including spouse, child and parent benefits, as well as funeral support.
“This is not just an insurance policy; it is a social protection package,” Simeon-Okraku stressed. “It is a statement that the GFA cares deeply about its referees, their families and their future.”
The Football Association has also provided a range of essential logistics aimed at improving referees’ working conditions. Each referee will receive two pairs of boots per season, three sets of uniforms in different colours and three sets of warm-up kits
According to the GFA President, this marks the first time such a comprehensive logistics package has been made available. “It represents our firm belief that referees should not struggle to access the essential gear required for their work,” he said.
In addition, the long-standing partnership with STC Coaches will continue, enabling referees to enjoy a 50% discount on official travel to and from match venues.
Beyond welfare improvements, the President outlined significant strides taken by the GFA to improve refereeing standards nationwide.
Through strong partnerships with FIFA and CAF, the Association has rolled out National and regional refresher courses, Technical and theoretical workshops, Mandatory fitness assessments, Enhanced evaluations and performance-based referee appointments and the use of video analysis for referee development.
He highlighted progress made in female referee participation and the success of the “Catch Them Young” initiative, which is identifying and nurturing young officiating talents across the country.
In his Concluding his address, President Simeon-Okraku described the launch as the beginning of a transformative chapter for refereeing in Ghana.
“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 declared.
He reaffirmed the GFA’s commitment to standing firmly behind referees and ensuring their wellbeing remains a top priority.
“This is our promise. This is our commitment. And this is our fulfillment of the pledge made at Congress.”
The launch was attended by Senior Business of Enterprise Life Assurance Company, Jerry Kwame Hodasi, Chairperson of the Referees Committee, Christine Enyonam Zigah, Referees Manager, Alexander Kotey as well as male and female FIFA referees.
