CAF unveils star-studded officiating teams for CHAN 2024 fixtures

Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda who will officiate the Group B clash between Madagascar and Mauritania at Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed a distinguished panel of match officials for two key CHAN 2024 fixtures scheduled for Sunday in Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.

In a landmark moment for women in football, Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda will officiate the Group B clash between Madagascar and Mauritania at Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Nabadda, renowned for her composure and tactical game awareness, continues to break new ground as one of Africa’s most prominent female referees in men's tournaments.

She will be assisted by Zambia’s Diana Chikotesha and Uganda’s Ronald Katenya, with Lucky Razake Kasalirwe, also from Uganda, serving as the fourth official.

Sudan’s Mahmoud Ashor will head the VAR team, supported by Kenya’s Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe, a rising figure in African officiating circles.

Meanwhile, at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium, Cameroon’s Abdou Abdel Mefire will take charge of the high-stakes Group C showdown between Morocco and Angola.

Known for his authority and calm in high-pressure matches, Mefire will work alongside assistant referees Rodrigue Menye Mpele (Cameroon) and Salim Alao (Benin).

Adissa Abdul of Benin will serve as the fourth official.

Gabon’s Raphiou Ligali will oversee VAR duties, assisted by Ghana’s Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea, both highly regarded for their experience in top-tier CAF and FIFA tournaments.

CAF’s strategic appointments underscore its commitment to quality officiating and gender inclusivity as CHAN 2024 gathers momentum across the continent.