Ugandan Football referees have today received their FIFA Badges and equipment for this year.
A total of 24 referees from eleven-aside football, futsal and Beach Soccer were approved to get FIFA badges this year.
In the function held at FUFA Complex on Friday, FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim handed over the badges to the referees. National elite referees also attended the same event.
He was flanked by FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi, FUFA Executive Committee Members Ronnie Kalema and Rogers Mulindwa.
Other dignitaries included FUFA Referees Standing Committee Chairperson Brian Miiro, FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza and Uganda Premier League CEO Bernard Bainamani.
In his address to the referees, the President first reminded the referees about FUFA’s strategy that is hinged on three key pillars.
“In our strategy as FUFA called the Hat trick, emphasis has been put on three key aspects namely; reaching every homestead, professionalization of the game and achieving world sporting excellence, ” he started.
“On the sporting side of the game, there are three key components; players, coaches and referees. Therefore, refereeing is a crucial in football development. So as referees, you must understand that you are part of development. When you fail, it is not me but rather football as a whole. Whenever you are on duty, you are judge that should be impartial.”
The President also took time to tell the referees to always stick to the principles and ethics of their calling.
“You are going to make mistakes because you are human but these three principles must be maintained at all times. Fitness, Integrity and Performance. When you’re a FIFA Referee you have to conduct yourself in a manner that befits an international Referee. Avoid being in situations that are going to expose you.”
He assured referees of protection whenever they do right but also told them disciplinary measures will be put into effect for intended mistakes.
”We have agreed to protect you whenever you’re right and we are proud of those moments you have taken correct decisions. We are all human beings that make mistakes but if someone makes a mistake intentionally then disciplinary measures have to be taken.” The President stressed.
Brian Miiro, the Chairperson of FUFA Referees Standing Committee told the referees to seize the opportunity and perform their duties with integrity at all times.
”We have given out the FIFA badges to Futsal, Beach Soccer and eleven aside FIFA Referees. We have emphasised Integrity, Fitness and Performance when on duty. I’m confident that this is a determined group that has undergone various trainings and ready to execute their work.” He said.
Here is a complete list of the 24 Ugandan FIFA Certified Referees 2023;
Male Centre Referees: Mashood Ssali, Ali Sabilla Chelangat, William Oloya, Lucky Razaake Kasalirwe and George Olemu
Male Assistant Referees: Ronald Katenya, Okello Lee, Isa Masembe, Hakim Mulindwa, Emmanuel Okudra and Timothy Gumisiriza Karusigarira
Futsal Referees:Brian Emmy Nsubuga and Isaac Sengendo
Beach Soccer: Ivan Kintu Bayige, Muhammad Ssenteza, Kennedy Kawagga Bazirio and Joel Chote Munyendoh
Female Centre Referees: Shamirah Nabadda, Habiba Naigaga and Diana Murungi
Female Assistant Referees: Lydia Nantabo Wanyama, Marex Nakitto Nkumbi, Jane Mutonyi and Elizabeth Nassolo
