The President of the Football Association, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku had paid glowing tributes to the memory of departed heroes during the 31 General Assembly of Congress, held on Tuesday August 12, 2025.
The President also delivered a comprehensive address reflecting on the past year’s milestones, challenges, and forward-looking initiatives aimed at transforming Ghana football into a sustainable and competitive industry.
He paid glowing tribute to the memory of distinguished figures whose dedication and service left a lasting legacy in Ghanaian football:
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Wilberforce Kwadwo Mfum – Ghana’s first-ever AFCON goal scorer, whose name is etched in the nation’s football history.
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Joseph Ade Coker – Former Vice-Chairman of the GFA.
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Jonathan Abbey Pobey – Founder and longtime President of Neoplan Stars FC.
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Ackah Anthony – Former member of the GFA Media Committee and Premier League Board.
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Ebo Quansah – Veteran journalist and football advocate, member of the Communication and Promotion Committee during the Normalisation Committee era.
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Francis Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley) – A passionate supporter whose energy inspired the football community.
“To these gallant men and all former leaders and staff who contributed to the growth and integrity of our sport, we express our deepest gratitude,” the President stated.
The GFA successfully organized all domestic competitions for the sixth consecutive season, including the Ghana Premier League (GPL), Women’s Premier League (WPL), Division One League (DOL), Beach Soccer, Futsal and FA Cup — without major disruptions. Although the Black Stars missed out on AFCON 2025, preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup remain on track.
In a bid to further improve competition management:
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The Match Review Panel will now meet three times a week to review all GPL, WPL, and DOL matches, with decisions deemed final.
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Mandatory pre- and post-match press conferences will be enforced across GPL, WPL, and DOL to enhance professionalism and fan engagement.
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GPL clubs will receive awards based on their final league positions.
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The Happy Hour Concept will continue, attracting fans through community-focused matchday experiences.
The GFA reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through policies mandating the inclusion of U-19 players in matchday squads:
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GPL clubs: Minimum 4 U-19 players (2 must play).
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DOL clubs: Minimum 6 U-19 players (3 must start).
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Division Two clubs: Minimum 8 U-19 players (4 must start).
Additionally:
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RFAs will each receive GHS 80,000 to organise an 8-club U-15 Girls League for the 2025/26 season.
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Free registration for Colts players, training for over 900 grassroots coaches and administrators, and provision of footballs, jerseys, and financial support for regional championships.
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Expansion of youth tournaments, including U-15, U-17, and U-19 competitions for both boys and girls.
To enhance officiating standards:
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750 coaches certified and 2,561 young referees trained under the Catch Them Young programme.
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Introduction of comprehensive insurance packages for all referees, including life, health, and disability coverage.
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Increased match fees: FIFA referees (GHS 2,500 per GPL game), non-FIFA referees (GHS 2,000 per GPL game), and GHS 1,000 for DOL/WPL matches.
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Strict prohibition on betting on domestic leagues.
Major upgrades are underway at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, including new natural grass pitches, multi-purpose facilities, and additional accommodation.
The Bus Acquisition Strategy has delivered 13 buses to DOL and WPL clubs and 8 pickup trucks to RFAs, with more to come next season.
The GPL will benefit from a partnership with Adesa Productions, providing top-tier TV production, enhanced marketing, and at least GHS 1,000,000 per club. Professional radio commentary will also be introduced for selected matches.
The GFA continues to advocate for reforms allowing responsible alcohol sponsorship and fairer VAT rates for football clubs, alongside policy proposals such as compulsory football in schools, betting tax redistribution, and tax incentives for sponsorship.
Following the passing of devoted supporter Nana Pooley, enhanced safety protocols have been introduced, underscoring the FA’s commitment to safeguarding fans, players, officials and media.
Through discipline, passion and collaboration, the GFA remains committed to governing, promoting and protecting the game at all levels, from grassroots to elite, while building a football ecosystem that inspires pride, opportunity and unity across Ghana.
GFA Communications
