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Ghana Football Association President, Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, is basking in the glory of his historic appointment as the new 2nd Vice-President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) — vowing to bring his wealth of knowledge and passion for the game to drive development across the continent.
The landmark appointment crowns a stunning rise for the 53-year-old football administrator, who was only elected to the CAF Executive Committee last month, becoming the sixth Ghanaian to earn that honour.
His swift elevation was confirmed at CAF’s first leadership meeting under the new regime in Accra last Saturday.
It’s all part of sweeping reforms by the CAF President, Dr Patrice Motsepe, designed to promote regional balance and inject fresh energy into African football’s top brass. Morocco’s FA boss, Fouzi Lekjaa, was named the first vice president, while Gabon’s Pierre-Alain Mounguengui (Central Africa), DR Congo’s Bestine Kazadi Ditabala (East Africa), and Mozambique’s Feizal Sidat (Southern Africa) complete the high-powered team.
“The beauty of African football is our diversity — it enriches, inspires and unites us. Our commitment to unity and cooperation is enormous, and it’s a legacy we want to leave for our children,” declared CAF boss Dr Motsepe, striking a hopeful tone.
In a particularly glowing tribute, Dr Motsepe described Mr Simeon-Okraku as “one of our finest who has made an enormous contribution to football in Ghana and across the African continent.”
In stepping up, Ghana’s football chief replaces Mauritania’s Ahmed Yahya and assumes a crucial responsibility for West Africa — a region he already represents as President of WAFU Zone B.
More than just a personal triumph, his appointment symbolises a new era for Anglophone Africa, which has long played second fiddle to Francophone influence in CAF leadership circles.
Mr Simeon-Okraku follows the path once taken by former GFA boss, Kwesi Nyantakyi, whose rise to CAF 1st Vice-President ended in scandal and disgrace with a lifetime FIFA ban (later reduced on appeal to 15 years) in 2018.
Determined to write a different story, Okraku is brimming with optimism.
“I am deeply honoured and truly encouraged by the confidence placed in me by President Dr Patrice Motsepe and the Executive Committee of our continent’s football governing body,” said an emotional Okraku.
“Their trust inspires me to dedicate myself even more to the growth and development of African football.
Together with my colleagues, I pledge to work tirelessly to advance football across Africa, serving with passion, integrity and a commitment to excellence.
I am excited for what lies ahead and look forward to contributing meaningfully to the beautiful game on our great continent.”
In a heartfelt show of gratitude, the GFA President expressed appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama and the government for their unwavering support, as well as his colleagues on the GFA Executive Council and the football community.
