GFA takes huge step in VAR implementation with FIFA’s support
By Lukman MUMIN, Accra
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has embarked on a crucial journey to introduce Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in Ghanaian football.
This move, aimed at enhancing the accuracy and integrity of officiating in local competitions, saw a two-day VAR kickoff meeting between GFA officials and FIFA’s VAR team, represented by Inokuchi Takaaki and Michael Bailey in Accra.
During the meeting, Takaaki and Bailey presented the Implementation Assistance and Approval Programme (IAAP), a FIFA-structured plan to guide member associations in adopting VAR.
The program covers everything from administrative prerequisites to training, implementation, and ongoing monitoring.
Deputy General Secretary Ms Ama Brobey-Williams welcomed the FIFA delegation on behalf of GFA President Kurt Okraku and General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo, expressing GFA’s commitment to elevating Ghanaian football standards.
In addition to outlining the IAAP steps, Bailey shared insights from VAR adoption experiences in other countries, emphasising the need for proactive planning and clear communication to address challenges.
The meeting concluded with GFA President Simeon-Okraku reiterating the association’s dedication to swiftly implementing VAR, with VAR Team Lead Alex Kotey tasked to prepare a roadmap. This significant move underscores GFA’s determination to bring top-tier officiating standards to Ghana’s football scene.
