World’s football governing body; FIFA has handpicked four referees from the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) region to officiate at the prestigious 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
Among these elite officials is Shamira Nabadda, a trailblazing female referee from Uganda, marking a significant milestone for women in Ugandan and African football at large.
The announcement came through a statement posted on the CECAFA Facebook handle, affirming FIFA’s decision to entrust the region with such a crucial responsibility.
“FIFA has appointed four referees from the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) region to officiate at the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics,” a statement from CECAFA read.
Joining Nabadda on this esteemed roster are Ismail Mahmood Ali from Sudan, Ahmed Liban Abdoulrazack representing Djibouti, and Stephen Yiembe hailing from Kenya.
Their selection underscores the depth of talent and expertise present within the CECAFA Zone, reaffirming its standing as a powerhouse in African football officiating.
Expressing elation over the historic achievement, Ali Ahmed, the head of refereeing at CECAFA, voiced pride in the referees’ selection for the Paris Olympics.
“We are very happy and proud to have our referees selected for the Paris Olympics,” said the CECAFA head of refereeing, Ali Ahmed
He lauded their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the sport, emphasizing the significance of this opportunity for the region’s footballing community.
Shamira Nabadda’s inclusion as one of the few female referees chosen for such a prestigious global event highlights the strides being made towards gender equality in football officiating.
Her journey from grassroots football in Uganda to the grand stage of the Olympics serves as an inspiration to aspiring female referees across the continent, illustrating that talent knows no gender boundaries.
The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, set to showcase 32 sporting disciplines, including football, will transpire from July 26th to August 11th in France.
This momentous event not only promises thrilling athletic feats but also serves as a platform for global unity and sportsmanship.
As the countdown to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics begins, the spotlight shines brightly on Shamira Nabadda and her fellow CECAFA referees, poised to showcase their expertise and uphold the spirit of fair play on football’s grandest stage.
Their presence not only symbolizes the rich diversity of African football but also represents a testament to the region’s unwavering passion and dedication to the beautiful game.
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