An insurance policy for referees described by the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, as “a significant milestone in the journey of our football,” has been launched, in recognition of the crucial role of referees, and the importance of their welfare.

The launch comes in fulfillment of a pledge Mr Simeon-Okraku made in August 12, 2025, during the 31st Ordinary Session of Congress at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, Prampram, Greater Accra Region.

“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 recalled.

Mr Simeon-Okraku noted the insurance policy was “a comprehensive welfare intervention designed to support, protect and empower our referees across all domestic competitions.”

“This is not just an insurance policy; it is a social protection package,” he remarked. “It is a statement that the GFA cares deeply about its referees, their families and their future.”

There are 280 referees who operate in the Premier League, Division One League, and Women’s Premier League, and all have been enrolled in the insurance scheme, according to the GFA.

Group Life Cover, Critical Illness Protection, Permanent Disability Compensation, Medical Expenses Support and Workmen’s Compensation are some of the features of the insurance policy, with additional complementary benefits covering the official’s spouse, child and parent, and funeral support, among others.

“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 stressed.

“This is our promise. This is our commitment. And this is our fulfillment of the pledge made at congress.”

The unveiling of the insurance policy Senior Business of Enterprise Life Assurance Company, Jerry Kwame Hodasi; Chairperson of the Referees Committee, Christine Enyonam Zigah; Referees Manager, Alexander Kotey, and male and female FIFA referees, among others, in attendance.

Futhermore, the GFA announced each referee will receive two pairs of boots per season, three sets of uniforms in different colours, and three sets of warm-up kits, as part of a logistics package.

“It represents our firm belief that referees should not struggle to access the essential gear required for their work,” President Simeon-Okraku explained, adding this was unprecedented.

The success of GFA's Catch Them Young initiative, which scouts and nurtures young referees nationwide, was underlined, with the significant participation of female referees noted.

Partnerships with STC Coaches, which gives referees a 50% discount on official travel to and from match venues, and with FIFA and CAF for referee development through refresher courses were also highlighted.