GFA President Kurt Okraku Takes on Role of Second Vice President at CAF

Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has been appointed as the Second Vice President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), a notable achievement for Ghana’s football landscape.

This announcement was made at the CAF Executive Committee meeting in Accra on April 26, 2025, which coincided with Ghana’s hosting of the CAF African Schools Football Championship.

Okraku’s promotion comes amid a significant reshuffle within CAF’s leadership, seeing a new vice-presidential team that aims to ensure a balanced representation across regions while drawing on extensive football expertise.

The new vice-presidential appointments at CAF showcase a diverse leadership structure. Fouzi Lekjaa from Morocco is the First Vice President, with Okraku taking on the role of Second Vice President. The line-up is rounded off by Pierre-Alain Mounguengui from Gabon as Third Vice President, Bestine Kazadi Ditabala from the Democratic Republic of Congo as Fourth Vice President, and Mozambique’s Feizal Sidat as Fifth Vice President.

This restructuring follows a transitional phase within CAF, where several former vice presidents departed after being elected to FIFA’s governing body or due to shifts in internal politics.

Since becoming GFA President in 2019, Okraku has focused on fostering grassroots initiatives, promoting women’s football, and enhancing youth programmes. His influence is recognised not only in Ghana but throughout West Africa, where he also holds the position of head of WAFU Zone B.

As CAF’s Second Vice President, Okraku is poised to play a critical role in shaping key policies and strategies influencing the future of African football. This new position is anticipated to amplify Ghana’s voice in continental decision-making and provide greater advocacy for West African football interests.

Okraku follows in the footsteps of former GFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi, who made history as the first Ghanaian to serve as CAF’s First Vice President in 2017 under President Ahmad Ahmad.

Nyantakyi’s tenure was significant for his substantial influence within both CAF and FIFA, marking a breakthrough for Ghanaian football governance on the broader continental stage.

Okraku has openly acknowledged Nyantakyi’s guidance and support, recognising his predecessor’s invaluable contributions to both Ghanaian and African football.

With this appointment, Okraku becomes the second Ghanaian to attain such a prestigious role within CAF, further solidifying Ghana’s legacy in football administration across Africa.

CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe presided over the meeting in Accra and highlighted the essential nature of effective governance, expressing gratitude to the outgoing vice presidents for their dedication during their tenures.

The recent appointments, including that of Okraku, aim to provide stability and a renewed vision for CAF as it prepares for major initiatives, such as the expanded FIFA World Cup and the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations.