GFA Visits SWAG, Advocates for Fair and Balanced Reporting

On Monday, March 17, 2025, the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, alongside members of the GFA Executive Council (EXCO) and chairpersons of the Regional Football Associations (RFAs), paid a courtesy call to the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG). This meeting aimed to foster stronger ties between the GFA and the media, particularly sports journalists, while also acknowledging the vital contribution SWAG makes to the growth and promotion of football in Ghana.

The visit was seen as a significant gesture to improve the working relationship between the GFA and the media, with an emphasis on the crucial role of journalists in football development. It was an opportunity for the GFA leadership to engage with the sports media, recognize their contributions, and also call for fair and balanced coverage of football-related matters in the country. The GFA delegation expressed their appreciation for SWAG’s continued efforts in supporting the sport and ensuring that the football community stays well-informed about key developments.

During his address, GFA President Kurt Simeon-Okraku praised SWAG for its steadfast commitment to promoting football and sports journalism. He recognized the hard work of sports journalists, highlighting their influence in shaping public opinion and supporting football’s growth in Ghana. However, he urged the media to uphold the values of fairness and objectivity in their reporting, especially in relation to the GFA’s activities.

President Simeon-Okraku acknowledged the significant role the media plays in shaping the public’s view of the sport and the GFA, emphasizing that accurate and balanced reporting is essential for the sustainable development of football in the country. He called on sports journalists to continue providing fair and impartial coverage, ensuring that both the successes and challenges faced by the GFA are reported transparently and professionally.

In particular, the GFA President appealed to the media to highlight the positive strides the GFA has made, while also holding the Association accountable when necessary. He stressed that constructive criticism is valuable for growth but should always be offered in a fair and professional manner. He emphasized that a collaborative approach between the GFA and the media is essential for the continued development of the sport.

Additionally, President Simeon-Okraku took the opportunity to share key initiatives and policies being pursued by the GFA to enhance the standards of football in Ghana. He outlined the GFA’s ongoing efforts to improve football infrastructure, invest in youth development programs, and promote women’s football. He highlighted the importance of these initiatives in ensuring that the next generation of footballers has the necessary resources and support to thrive, and that women’s football continues to receive the attention and recognition it deserves.

SWAG President Kwabena Yeboah expressed gratitude for the visit and welcomed the GFA delegation warmly. He reiterated SWAG’s commitment to working closely with the GFA to promote football development in Ghana. President Yeboah emphasized the importance of maintaining a professional and transparent relationship between the GFA and the media, ensuring that the media’s role in football development is recognized and respected.

The leadership of SWAG, including General Secretary Charles Osei Asibey, also reaffirmed their dedication to working collaboratively with the GFA while continuing to perform their vital role as the fourth estate. They emphasized that the media plays an essential part in holding organizations like the GFA accountable, while also ensuring that the public stays informed about the progress of the sport.

The visit served as an important step in building a stronger, more cooperative relationship between the GFA and the sports media. Both parties acknowledged the need for a balanced approach to reporting, where the media can celebrate the successes of the GFA, while also providing constructive criticism when necessary. This visit highlighted the shared commitment of the GFA and SWAG to advancing football in Ghana, ensuring that the sport continues to grow and thrive both on and off the field. The dialogue between the two organizations set a positive tone for future collaboration and mutual support in the years ahead.