President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, strong governance and sustainable football development following a high-level strategic engagement with the leadership of the Upper West Regional Football Association (RFA).

The meeting, which formed part of his first official visit to the region, was held with the regional executive body led by Chairman Alhaji Sadugu Yahaya. Discussions centered on identifying opportunities, addressing key challenges and strengthening collaboration to accelerate football development across the Upper West Region.

President Simeon-Okraku expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception and commended the region for its resilience and dedication to reviving the game despite past setbacks.

“Our responsibility was to revive football at every level when the game was brought to its knees,” he stated.
“The Premier League, Women’s League, Division One, Regional Leagues, Beach Soccer and Futsal had all come to a standstill. Through your dedication and commitment, we have revived the sport, and our people are once again enjoying football.”

He noted that renewed investment and targeted interventions by the GFA have reignited passion for the game nationwide, while also creating economic opportunities for clubs and administrators.

“Through your hard work, we have ignited passion among clubs and created wealth through several targeted financial support systems and cushions. I am happy to say that we have brought back the love and passion for football,” he added.

Highlighting measurable progress, the GFA President pointed to the Upper West Region’s growing participation in national competitions as a clear sign of development.

“We are now competing in all national tournaments organised by the FA, in both boys’ and girls’ divisions,” he said, describing the current football structure as “the most organised we have experienced, from the youth level to the national stage, for the first time in the history of our game.”

President Simeon-Okraku urged regional football administrators to embrace creativity and innovation as essential tools for sustaining growth and excitement around the game.

“I want to encourage you to think outside the box because that is the only way to create excitement." he emphasised.

A major highlight of the engagement was his strong advocacy for women’s football development, particularly the introduction of the FIFA-supported U-15 Girls League. He described the initiative as a critical step in fixing the fundamentals of the women’s game.

“In the past, young girls were completely cut off from organised football and had to wait until Division One, which is not understandable,” he explained.
“The U-15 Girls League provides a clear first step for every young girl, allowing them to feel the ball early and grow naturally within the system.”

He reaffirmed the GFA’s continued support for the work of the RFAs, referencing strategic interventions rolled out over time, including logistical support such as the recent distribution of pick-up vehicles to regions.

In a significant announcement, President Simeon-Okraku revealed plans to establish permanent offices in all regions, an initiative he described as crucial to long-term development.

“One of the foremost things we hope to achieve moving forward is to have our own offices across all regions. This is the first time I am making this promise, and God willing, with your support, I will deliver,” he said.
“When we have our own offices, creating a good working environment and taking care of the various departments, football will only progress.”

The meeting also provided an opportunity for RFA executives to share feedback and outline challenges confronting football in the region.

President Simeon-Okraku assured them of coordinated efforts by the GFA to address these concerns, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to partnership-driven development.

GFA Communications