Ghanaian referees to receive increased pay up to GH₵2500 per match – Kurt Okraku
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced significant increases in match fees and improved welfare packages for referees ahead of the 2025/26 football season.
The new measures, unveiled by GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku at the 31st Ordinary Congress in Prampram, will see FIFA-accredited referees in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) earning GH₵2,500 per match, while other referees in the GPL will receive GH₵2,000. Officials in the Division One League (DOL) and Women’s Premier League (WPL) will now take home GH₵1,000 per match.
Beyond financial benefits, all 280 referees across the country will be enrolled in an extensive insurance scheme covering life, critical illness, permanent disability, medical expenses, and workman’s compensation. The package also includes provisions for spouses, children, and parents, as well as funeral support in the event of a referee’s death.
Referees will additionally receive two pairs of boots per season, three match uniforms in different colours, three warm-up kits, and enjoy a 50% travel discount on State Transport Company (STC) services to and from match venues.
President Okraku said the move reflects the GFA’s commitment to improving referee welfare and promoting professionalism in officiating.
The GFA has also indicated plans to extend similar welfare benefits to match commissioners starting from the 2026/27 season.
The initiative has been widely welcomed within the football fraternity, with many describing it as a step towards enhancing fairness, motivation, and integrity in Ghanaian football.
