In a landmark decision aimed at strengthening safety measures at football matches, the Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially approved the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025.
This decision follows extensive consultations with all 18 Ghana Premier League clubs, Division One League teams, Women’s Premier League clubs, and other key stakeholders in Ghanaian football.
The journey towards these enhanced protocols began on February 6, 2025, when the GFA Secretariat hosted a crucial meeting attended by representatives from the Association and all top-tier clubs.
Discussions centered on ways to improve safety and security at match venues, ensuring the well-being of players, officials, and supporters.
In a proactive move, two of Ghana’s most prominent clubs, Asante Kotoko SC and Accra Hearts of Oak SC, submitted additional proposals for consideration on February 7, 2025. The GFA assured both clubs that their recommendations would be reviewed alongside other suggestions presented during the Executive Council meeting.
Police Collaboration and New Security Measures
A pivotal moment in this process was a meeting between the GFA and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), during which 33 action points were discussed. Recognizing the importance of law enforcement in football safety, the Ghana Police Service has taken significant steps, including:
The establishment of a dedicated Sports Police Unit
The integration of Sports Security Training into the Police Training Academy curriculum
The appointment of Regional Sports Officers to oversee security at sporting events nationwide.
Deployment of police personnel from other regions when necessary to ensure law and order
The IGP has made it clear that criminal activity at football matches will be treated as a serious offense, with perpetrators facing the full force of the Ghanaian criminal justice system.
Nationwide Engagement and Policy Development
To ensure inclusivity, the GFA has engaged with multiple football stakeholders, including Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League clubs, Division One League teams, and Supporters Groups.
These discussions helped shape the first draft of the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols, which was reviewed by the Executive Council on February 9, 2025.
The following day, on February 10, 2025, the Minister for Sports and Recreation held a strategic meeting with the GFA, reinforcing the government’s commitment to safety at football matches. After incorporating additional feedback, the Executive Council officially approved the protocols, ensuring they align with existing football regulations, including:
The Premier League, Division One League, Women’s Premier League, and Regional Football Leagues Regulations
Stadium Regulations and Club Licensing Regulations
The Disciplinary Code and Code of Ethics
Other relevant GFA Directives and Guidelines
Commitment to Safer Football in Ghana
The adoption of the Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025 marks a significant step forward in Ghanaian football. This initiative is driven by a shared commitment to preventing tragedies, such as the unfortunate passing of Francis Yaw Frimpong, and ensuring that stadiums remain safe for all.
Moving forward, the GFA has pledged to:
Educate all stakeholders on the new protocols
Ensure strict compliance with safety measures
Enforce fair sanctions for violations through the judicial bodies of the Association
The GFA also issued a strong reminder to all football participants and fans: criminal acts at football matches will be treated as crimes, with full support from the Ghana Police Service.
With these protocols in place, Ghanaian football takes a bold step toward securing its match venues, fostering a safer environment for players, officials, and supporters alike.
Below is the approved Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols 2025;
