President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has announced improved welfare packages for referees ahead of the 2025/26 football season, including new match allowances and comprehensive insurance coverage.
Speaking at the 31st Ordinary Congress of the GFA in Prampram, Okraku revealed that FIFA-accredited referees will now earn ₵2,500 per game, while non-FIFA referees will receive ₵2,000 per game in the Ghana Premier League, Division One League, and Women’s Premier League.
Our referees deserve more attention. They deserve our support, and their well-being is very important,” Okraku said. “Going into the new season, referees will take center stage in terms of welfare.
As part of the reforms, the GFA has also introduced a holistic insurance policy for all 280 referees officiating in the GPL, WPL, and DOL. This policy will cover:
- Group life cover
- Critical illness
- Permanent disability
- Medical expenses
- Workman’s compensation
Additional benefits include spouse, child, and parent benefits, as well as funeral support.
“It’s not about Kurt Okraku, it’s about the regulations that govern Ghana football.”- GFA Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum speaks on the motion seeking the extension of the GFA Presidential term limit.
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Match commissioners are also expected to be added to the scheme from the 2026/27 season.
The GFA says these initiatives aim to motivate referees, improve officiating standards, and ensure they are adequately protected both on and off the field.
