The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has announced a significant update to its stadium inspection process, slated to commence prior to the upcoming 2024/2025 season, with a primary emphasis on ensuring venues are fully compliant with safety standards. This initiative represents a substantial shift in the association’s approach to safeguarding players, spectators, and all stakeholders involved in matchday operations. GFA Club Licensing Manager Esme Mends explained that the inspection process is a cornerstone of the club licensing system, demanding meticulous assessment of stadium and training facility conditions.
‘Under the infrastructure, we conduct comprehensive inspections of stadiums and training facilities,’ Mends stated, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing player safety. The inspection process, which is implemented in two distinct stages, begins with an initial assessment to determine the overall condition of the facility and identify any deficiencies. Clubs are then given a defined timeframe to implement necessary repairs and improvements. ‘The inspection is conducted twice,’ Mends elaborated, ‘The first round focuses on evaluating the existing condition, and a deadline is set for completing the required corrections.’
According to Mends, the second inspection serves a crucial role in verifying that these corrections have been fully implemented. ‘We’ve observed that several venues have been initially rejected due to non-compliance,’ Mends noted. ‘However, the GFA is emphasizing that a venue’s initial exclusion should not be interpreted as a lack of commitment; rather, clubs are encouraged to actively embrace the club licensing system and diligently meet the required criteria.’
The process has resulted in several venues being initially denied approval, but subsequent improvements have led to their subsequent inclusion.
‘The second inspection is the final one,’ Mends clarified, ‘When we arrive and the corrections haven’t been completed by the deadline, then we do not approve for the time being, and they are given more time to complete them before the league begins,’ he added. The GFA has indicated that a substantial number of venues currently awaiting approval are expected to meet or exceed the required standards before the start of the season or shortly thereafter.
‘I believe, before the start of the season or even after the first league games, we have most of the Premier League venues approved,’ Mends stated, stressing the importance of this proactive approach. The GFA’s licensing process is expected to continue as clubs focus on upgrading their stadiums and training facilities to ensure a safe and compliant environment for all stakeholders in the football ecosystem. The initiative is a key component of the association’s commitment to maintaining high standards of safety and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Ghanaian football.”
This update comes amidst growing scrutiny regarding the quality of facilities in Ghanaian football, with several venues previously deemed unsuitable for the Premier League, potentially impacting the league’s reputation and the experience of fans.
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Source: Adom Sports
