Nabadda To Officiate Her First 2025 AFCON Match.

AFCON 2025: The Confederation of African Football Associations has appointed Nabadda Shamirah For Her First AFCON Match.

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Shamirah Nabadda is making history today as she takes charge of the Group D match between Benin and Botswana at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, marking her debut at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

The Ugandan FIFA Female referee is on the verge of becoming the first woman from Uganda to officiate a match at the prestigious tournament.

Nabadda’s appointment is a testament to her exceptional skills and expertise, having handled three matches at the 2024 CHAN Tournament, including the third-place playoffs between Senegal and Sudan.

Credit to Kamira

Her experience and confidence earned her the 2025 African Women’s Referee of the Year award, a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding performances.

As she takes to the pitch, she’ll be assisted by Diana Chikotesha from Zambia and Carine Atezambong Fomo from Cameroon, with Clement Franklin Kpan from Ivory Coast serving as the fourth official .

For Uganda, Nabadda’s appointment is a proud moment, showcasing the country’s growing presence in African football. Her achievement is even more remarkable considering the trailblazing path she’s paving for Ugandan female referees. Catherine Adipo Wejuli, the former Kampala Amateur Volleyball Club player, was the first Ugandan woman to attain a FIFA badge, but Nabadda is breaking new ground by officiating at the Men’s AFCON tournament.

Credit to LMP.

Nabadda’s representation of Uganda on this big stage means a lot to the country’s football community. It highlights the progress made in developing women’s football and refereeing in Uganda, and serves as inspiration for young Ugandan girls and women to pursue careers in sports officiating.

Her confidence, expertise, and leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on African football, making her a role model for aspiring referees across the continent.

As for the teams, Benin lost their opening match 1-0 to DR Congo, showcasing defensive discipline but lacking attacking efficiency. Botswana, on the other hand, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Senegal, struggling to cope with the former champions’ pace and intensity

Team Standings:

• Group D
  • 1. Senegal – 3 points
  • 2. DR Congo – 3 points
  • 3. Benin – 0 points
  • 4. Botswana – 0 points