GFA boss Kurt Okraku defends refereeing reforms, says improvement ongoing

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku says he remains confident in the direction of refereeing reforms despite recurring criticism about officiating in domestic competitions.

Officiating has once again come under scrutiny this season, with sections of the football public raising concerns over decisions in key matches. Okraku, however, insists the FA is making steady progress through structural changes, training programmes and long-term development strategies.

"I am not disappointed about what we are doing with our match officials in general. I am very happy about our new structure and our new way. I’m very happy about the trainings that we’ve offered our match officials over time," Okraku told GFA Media.

He acknowledged that while some incidents have occurred, they must be viewed within the context of the large number of matches played each week.

“Yes, I’m also concerned about some of the few incidents that have been occurring. I say few in relation to the quantum of games played every week and over the entire season. It’s important that we pay attention to these situations because we want a perfect environment,” he said.

Okraku highlighted the FA’s “Catch Them Young” referee initiative as a key intervention aimed at producing the next generation of elite officials.

"I’m extremely happy and excited about what the Catch Them Young Referee Strategy is turning out to be, and about the commitment of the refereeing leadership to make sure officiating improves in our country," he added.

He stressed that continuous education remains central to the FA’s approach.

"The role of the Football Association is to make sure there’s continuous training for our referees, to keep them engaged and to provide them with an enabling environment," he explained.

Okraku also referenced steps taken to improve matchday safety and discipline following the death of Asante Kotoko supporter Nana Pooley in Nsoatre, saying measures were introduced to ensure football is delivered in a cleaner and more secure environment.

"Our judicial bodies are very active to make sure everybody stays in line. Those who go against the regulations are brought to order," he said.

On the continental stage, Ghana had only one referee, Daniel Laryea, at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he officiated two matches, including the semi-final, an appointment the FA views as evidence of growing confidence in Ghanaian officiating.

"It’s a good journey. We accept that there is a need for more improvement, and we will not stop working towards that vision," Okraku said.

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