*By John Kusolo*
The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has released the list of referees who have been approved by FIFA to officiate matches under its jurisdiction for the calendar year 2025. A total of 24 referees, drawn from various categories including Centre Referees, Assistant Referees, Futsal, and Beach Soccer, have made the prestigious list.
This announcement follows FUFA's resolution to submit the nominees to FIFA, which has now confirmed their certification. The inclusion of new entrants and the return of experienced referees demonstrates FUFA's commitment to developing refereeing standards in Uganda and ensuring international recognition for its officials.
New Entrants: Ashiraf Magoola and Joshua Duula make their debut as FIFA-certified referees.
Comeback: Dick Okello returns to the list, reinforcing the cadre of experienced referees.
Futsal and Beach Soccer: These categories maintain their respective slots, reflecting steady progress in specialized refereeing disciplines.
Male Centre Referees:
Dick Okello
Joshua Duula
William Oloya
Lucky Razake Kasalirwe
George Olemu
Male Assistant Referees:
Ronald Katenya
Hakim Mulindwa
Emmanuel Okudra
Ashiraf Magoola
Brianson Musisi
Ashiraf Katerega
Futsal Referees:
Brian Emmy Nsubuga
Isaac Sengendo
Beach Soccer Referees:
Ivan Kintu Bayige
Muhammad Ssenteza
Kennedy Kawagga Bazirio
Joel Chote Munyendoh
Female Centre Referees:
Shamirah Nabadda
Habiba Naigaga
Diana Murungi
Female Assistant Referees:
Lydia Nantabo Wanyama
Jane Mutonyi
Elizabeth Nassolo
Immaculate Ongiera
Earning a FIFA badge is a milestone in a referee’s career, granting them the privilege to officiate matches in FIFA-sanctioned tournaments, including international friendlies, qualifiers, and continental competitions. It also provides a platform to showcase their skills on a global stage, enhancing Uganda’s reputation in the world of football officiating.
FUFA has consistently invested in the training and development of referees through regular workshops, fitness tests, and mentorship programs. This approach has yielded tangible results, as evidenced by the increasing number of Ugandan referees gaining international recognition.
In a statement, FUFA President Moses Magogo congratulated the referees, emphasizing their role in upholding the integrity of the game. “We are proud of the strides our referees are making. The FIFA badge is a testament to their dedication and the robust systems we have put in place to nurture talent,” he remarked.
As Ugandan referees continue to make strides on the international stage, their participation in FIFA events will inspire the next generation of officials to pursue excellence. FUFA’s strategic focus on refereeing is expected to further elevate the standards of football officiating in the country.
The certified referees are now tasked with representing Uganda with professionalism and competence, ensuring that the nation remains a significant player in the global football arena.
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