GFA President Announces Increased Match Allowances and Insurance for Referees Ahead of New Season
In a significant move to enhance the welfare of officials, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku announced today that FIFA-accredited referees will earn ₵2,500 per game, while non-FIFA referees will receive ₵2,000, as part of improved compensation packages for the upcoming 2025/26 football season.
Delivering this news at the GFA’s 31st Ordinary Congress in Prampram, Okraku stated, “Our referees deserve more attention. They deserve our support, and their well-being is very important. Going into the new season, referees will take center stage in terms of welfare.”
In addition to the increased match allowances, the GFA is implementing a comprehensive insurance policy covering all 280 referees officiating in the Ghana Premier League, Women’s Premier League, and Division One League. This policy will include group life cover, critical illness, permanent disability, medical expenses, and workers’ compensation. It will also extend benefits to referees’ spouses, children, and parents, as well as provide funeral support.
Okraku emphasized that these reforms are designed to motivate referees, improve officiating standards, and ensure they are adequately protected both on and off the field. Match commissioners are also expected to be integrated into this support scheme starting from the 2026/27 season.
These initiatives reflect the GFA’s commitment to enhancing the overall environment of Ghanaian football, fostering a more professional atmosphere for all stakeholders involved in the sport.
