Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has been officially appointed as the Second Vice-President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), marking a historic leadership milestone for West Africa.
His appointment was ratified during a landmark CAF Executive Committee meeting held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, a decision seen as a significant step toward greater regional balance and inclusivity in African football governance.
This moment is historic in more ways than one. It is the first time that a West African Anglophone leader has ascended to such a senior role within CAF under the presidency of Dr. Patrice Motsepe.
Okraku’s rise is not merely symbolic — it reflects a clear endorsement of his visionary leadership in Ghana, where he has spearheaded sweeping reforms aimed at reviving and strengthening the domestic football structure.
Under Okraku’s stewardship, Ghana has made notable strides in professionalizing its leagues, expanding grassroots development programs, and promoting greater transparency and accountability in football administration. His track record of transformative leadership has earned respect both at home and abroad.
The timing of this appointment is also significant. It follows growing international criticism over the underrepresentation of the Anglophone bloc in recent continental and FIFA elections. Okraku’s elevation signals CAF’s renewed commitment under Motsepe’s leadership to address historical imbalances and foster unity across linguistic and regional divides.
That this milestone took place on Ghanaian soil adds deeper symbolism to the moment. It reaffirms Ghana’s enduring influence in African football and the country’s pioneering role in the continent’s ongoing football transformation.
As Second Vice-President, Okraku will now play a pivotal role in shaping major CAF policies and initiatives that will define the future of African football. His development-driven approach, strong ethics, and progressive vision position him as a powerful advocate for reforms that benefit not just Ghana, but also the broader Anglophone and West African football community.
Okraku’s appointment opens a new chapter for African football — one where diversity is embraced, unity is prioritized, and the collective future of the beautiful game is built on shared progress and opportunity.