On April 26, 2025, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a significant leadership update, here in Acrra with Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), appointed as the Second Vice President of CAF. This prestigious appointment, approved by the CAF Executive Committee and nominated by CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe, marks a proud moment for Ghanaian football and underscores Okraku’s growing influence in African sports governance.
The Confederation of African Football, the governing body for football across the continent, plays a pivotal role in advancing the sport through tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and club competitions. The appointment of Kurt Okraku as the Second Vice President strengthens CAF’s leadership team, which includes:
1st Vice President: Fouzi Lekjaa (Morocco)
2nd Vice President: Kurt Okraku (Ghana)
3rd Vice President: Pierre Alain Monguengui (Gabon)
4th Vice President: Bestine Kazadi (DR Congo)
5th Vice President: Feizal Sidat (Mozambique)
This diverse and dynamic leadership lineup reflects CAF’s commitment to fostering unity and progress in African football, with Okraku’s inclusion signaling Ghana’s continued prominence in the sport.
Who is Kurt Okraku?
Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku is a respected figure in African football administration, known for his transformative leadership as the President of the Ghana Football Association since 2019. Under his stewardship, the GFA has implemented reforms to enhance grassroots football, improve governance, and elevate the profile of Ghanaian football on the continental and global stages. Okraku’s experience and vision have made him a natural fit for the role of CAF Second Vice President.
His appointment is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his ability to drive positive change. As a key member of CAF’s Executive Committee, Okraku is expected to contribute to strategic initiatives that will shape the future of African football, from youth development to infrastructure improvements.
What This Means for Ghana and African Football
The appointment of Kurt Okraku as CAF’s Second Vice President is a significant achievement for Ghana, reinforcing the country’s influence in African football governance. Ghana, a football powerhouse with a rich history, including four AFCON titles, stands to benefit from Okraku’s elevated role as he advocates for policies that align with the nation’s footballing ambitions.
For African football as a whole, Okraku’s leadership will likely focus on key priorities such as:
- Grassroots Development: Expanding access to football programs for young players across the continent.
- Tournament Innovation: Enhancing the quality and global appeal of CAF competitions.
- Governance and Transparency: Strengthening the administrative framework of African football.
With CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe at the helm, Okraku’s appointment aligns with a broader vision to modernize and elevate African football, making it more competitive on the world stage.
The Road Ahead for Kurt Okraku and CAF
As the Second Vice President, Kurt Okraku will work closely with the CAF Executive Committee to implement strategic goals and address challenges facing African football. His role will involve collaboration with other vice presidents, including Fouzi Lekjaa of Morocco, Pierre Alain Monguengui of Gabon, Bestine Kazadi of DR Congo, and Feizal Sidat of Mozambique, to ensure a cohesive approach to governance.
The announcement has been met with widespread praise in Ghana and beyond, with fans and stakeholders expressing optimism about Okraku’s ability to drive meaningful change. Social media platforms, including X, have buzzed with congratulatory messages, highlighting the pride Ghanaians feel in seeing one of their own take on such a prominent role.
The appointment of Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku as the Second Vice President of the Confederation of African Football is a landmark moment for both Ghana and the continent’s football community. As a seasoned administrator and passionate advocate for the sport, Okraku is poised to make a lasting impact on African football. With his leadership, alongside CAF’s esteemed Executive Committee, the future of the sport in Africa looks brighter than ever.
