At a Glance
- African female referees are making history in FIFA, CAF, and global men’s tournaments.
- Salima Mukansanga and peers are reshaping gender roles in elite football officiating.
- Referees from Rwanda, South Africa, Ethiopia, Morocco, and Togo lead Africa’s officiating renaissance.
As the world of football intensifies its push toward inclusivity and global representation, a new generation of elite African female referees is commanding attention on the global stage.
From officiating at FIFA World Cups to leading crucial matches in UEFA and CAF competitions, these pioneering women are not only redefining standards in the male-dominated officiating world — they’re also putting African excellence at the forefront of international football.
Here’s a spotlight on the top 5 African female referees setting new standards on the global pitch.
Salima Mukansanga – Rwanda
Salima Mukansanga cemented her place in football history when she became the first African woman to officiate a men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match in 2022 — and later that year, made headlines again as one of three women selected to referee at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
A qualified nurse turned full-time referee, Mukansanga has earned global respect for her composure, physical stamina, and decision-making under pressure.
Her officiating résumé spans the Tokyo Olympics, FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, and most recently, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
Akhona Makalima – South Africa
Known for her no-nonsense demeanor, Akhona Makalima is South Africa’s first female referee with a FIFA badge.
A regular fixture in the South African Premier Division, she’s among the few women to officiate men’s matches at the highest domestic level.
She joined the elite roster of referees at the FIFA Women’s World Cup and led games in the CAF Women’s Champions League and WAFCON 2022.
Her rise reflects a growing acceptance of female authority in African football’s top echelons.
Lidya Tafesse Abebe – Ethiopia
A licensed pharmacist and FIFA-listed referee since 2009, Lidya Tafesse Abebe has proven that precision extends beyond the lab.
The first Ethiopian woman to officiate a men’s AFCON match, Tafesse has worked at both the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup and CAF’s intercontinental tournaments.
Her calm command of the pitch has made her a symbol of professionalism in East African sport.
Bouchra Karboubi – Morocco
Karboubi made headlines in 2023 as the first woman to officiate Morocco’s Throne Cup Final.
A prominent figure in both CAF inter-club competitions and the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, she is known for her strong on-field decisions and command of VAR technology
Her rise reflects Morocco’s strategic investment in football and the advancement of gender diversity across its sports institutions.
Vincentia Amedome – Togo
Amedome represents West Africa’s new generation of elite referees.
Her appearances at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, CAF Women’s Champions League, and CAF Confederation Cup have established her as a rising star.
With high fitness scores and tactical clarity, Amedome is one of the few women officiating in men’s continental competitions, signaling a future of greater inclusion across African football.
