CAF, GFA lead drive to end stadium tragedies with safety workshop in Accra
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has launched a three-day Safe Stadium Initiative workshop in Accra to strengthen security and safety standards across football events in Ghana and the continent.
CAF 2nd Vice-President and President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, officially opened the programme on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the GFA Headquarters. The workshop brings together Safety and Security Officers from all 18 Premier League clubs, members of the GFA Security Committee, and 16 Regional Sports Police Officers.
In his opening address, Mr Simeon-Okraku, speaking on behalf of CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, underscored the organisation’s commitment to protecting football stakeholders. “Since our President took office, one of his foremost promises has been to deliver football in a very, very safe environment for all consumers of our sport,” he said. “It is always important for CAF, working closely with our Member Associations, to share knowledge that will help ensure lives and property are not only safe but protected at all CAF-organised events.”
He referenced Ghana’s own tragic experience with stadium safety, particularly the May 9 disaster at the Accra Sports Stadium in 2001, which claimed 127 lives. “Ever since that horrible day in 2001, we have said ‘never again.’ But we must admit that we have not always ticked the right boxes during our events. That is why we are here, to learn, to close the gaps and to ensure football is delivered the way it should be, safely and responsibly,” he stated.
The GFA President urged participants to extend the training to colleagues, security officers, and club officials, stressing the importance of building fan trust. “People should have the confidence to travel to our match venues, to enjoy themselves and participate actively on game days. If we all play our part, our people will be happy, and when there is happiness, there is peace and tranquility,” he emphasised.
The workshop will deliver training on CAF Safety and Security Regulations, accreditation and access control, crowd management techniques, and pre-, during- and post-match security protocols. Sessions are being facilitated by CAF security experts Xololi Nokithula Vilakati of Eswatini and Sylvanus Obi of Nigeria.
The Safe Stadium Initiative is part of CAF’s continent-wide strategy to standardise safety measures and prevent stadium tragedies. It aims to ensure that all football matches, from domestic league fixtures to continental competitions, are staged in secure environments.
Declaring the programme officially open, Mr Simeon-Okraku said: “I pray that during the time we spend here, you will take everything that is shared, and when you return to your clubs and regions, you will deliver the same to your people. Together, we can guarantee that football in Ghana and across Africa is enjoyed in a safe and peaceful atmosphere.”
