Ugandan FIFA Certified Referees 2025: Comprehensive List and Key Updates

FUFA officially released the 2025 list of Ugandan referees certified by FIFA. That this is happening means that a milestone in the growth of Uganda in football officiating is being achieved, showing that Uganda is committed to ensuring refereeing excellence across the various formats of the game.

With 24 referees selected, this list comprises seasoned professionals, rising talents, and returning officials, further emphasizing the depth and quality of Uganda’s refereeing talent pool. FUFA’s submission to FIFA has been approved; now, these referees will be allowed to officiate in high-profile international matches throughout 2025.

What Are FIFA Certified Referees?

FIFA-certified referees are those approved by the governing body to handle international matches. Of course, these referees who come through under very stern criteria show excellent knowledge, fitness, and understanding of the game. For Ugandan referees, this is not a gift or an achievement for themselves only; it’s a flag showing the rising influence in global football.

The Complete List

1. Male Centre Referees

Centre referees are the primary decision-makers on the field. They enforce the rules, manage player conduct, and ensure fair play. Uganda’s 2025 FIFA-certified Male Centre Referees include:

• Dick Okello (Returning)
• Joshua Duula (New entrant)
• William Oloya
• Lucky Razake Kasalirwe
• George Olemu

2. Male Assistant Referees

Assistant referees work with Centre Referees on offside rulings, fouls near the touchlines, and other critical decisions. The Male Assistant Referees for 2025 are:

• Ronald Katenya
• Hakim Mulindwa
• Emmanuel Okudra
• Ashiraf Magoola (New entrant)
• Brianson Musisi
• Ashiraf Katerega

3. Special Categories: Futsal and Beach Soccer Referees

Uganda has established a strong presence in specialized football formats, with representation in Futsal and Beach Soccer categories. These referees play a crucial role in expanding the reach of football across diverse terrains and styles.

Futsal Referees

• Brian Emmy Nsubuga
• Isaac Sengendo

Beach Soccer Referees

• Ivan Kintu Bayige
• Muhammad Ssenteza
• Kennedy Kawagga Bazirio
• Joel Chote Munyendoh

Futsal and Beach Soccer referees are pivotal in promoting these growing sports, ensuring rules are upheld in fast-paced, high-energy games.

4. Female Referees: Leading the Charge

Female referees in Uganda break records and set new milestones in refereeing football events. For 2025, nine female referees have earned FIFA certification, cementing their place on the international stage.

Female Centre Referees

• Shamirah Nabadda
• Habiba Naigaga
• Diana Murungi

Female Assistant Referees

• Lydia Nantabo Wanyama
• Jane Mutonyi
• Elizabeth Nassolo
• Immaculate Ongiera

Female referees are trailblazers in Ugandan football, representing the country in prestigious international tournaments and inspiring future generations.

What’s New in the 2025 List?

Key Highlights

1. New Entrants: Two referees, Joshua Duula and Ashiraf Magoola, make their debut on the FIFA-certified list. Their inclusion showcases the continuous pipeline of talent FUFA is nurturing.

2. Returning Veteran: Dick Okello, a seasoned referee, returns to the list, bringing years of experience and a proven track record to the table.

3. Steady Representation in Futsal and Beach Soccer: The consistency in the number of certified referees in these categories highlights FUFA’s focus on expanding Uganda’s influence beyond traditional football formats.

Why Is This Certification Important?

• Boosting Uganda’s Global Presence

Certification by FIFA allows referees to officiate in international matches, elevating Uganda’s profile in global football. These referees are ambassadors for Ugandan football, showcasing the country’s dedication to fair play, professionalism, and growth.

• Development of Local Talent

FUFA’s commitment to the development of referees has ensured a steady pipeline of talent. Training programs, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to international standards prepare these referees for the challenges of officiating on the global stage.

How FUFA Supports Referee Development

FUFA has implemented comprehensive programs of development and improvement in raising the standard of refereeing in Uganda, including:

1. Training Camps: Referees are put through regular workshops and fitness camps to get them ready for the physical and mental rigors of officiating.

2. Mentorship Programs: Programs where senior referees mentor the upcoming ones to share knowledge and insight for further improvement.

3. International Exposure: Opportunities to officiate in regional and continental tournaments avail referees with great experiences that give them confidence.

The Future of Refereeing in Uganda

Over the years, the number representative of Uganda on the Fifa-Certified referee list is bound to grow. It goes without saying that a strategic focus that FUFA places on referee development, complemented by recent and rising opportunities within regional and global tournaments, forms an excellent base on which to face the future.

This encompasses both male and female referees, besides representation in Futsal and Beach Soccer-a holistic approach toward the development of football in Uganda.

The Significance of Uganda’s 2025 FIFA Certified Referees

The 2025 Ugandan FIFA Certified Referees list is a true reflection of the commitment by FUFA in nurturing talent and promoting football officiating at the highest level. With experienced referees, promising newcomers, and balanced representation across all categories, Uganda keeps growing into a powerhouse in world football.

Whether they are Centre Referees, Assistant Referees, or specialists in Futsal and Beach Soccer, it is these 24 who personify the passion, professionalism, and commitment of a country to the beautiful game