Uganda’s FIFA Referees List for 2026: Two New Faces Emerge

Two New Referees Join Uganda’s FIFA List for 2026

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has confirmed the list of Ugandan referees approved to receive FIFA badges for the calendar year 2026, and it’s a proud moment for the country’s football community.

Referee Lucky Razake Kasalirwe credit Kamira Ash.

The list features two new faces, both females, including one referee and one assistant referee, hailing from the Kampala Region. Nantongo Rachel Josephine, a rising star from Rubaga DFA, has made it to the referees’ list, replacing Habib Naigaga from Buganda Region.

Nantongo’s task ahead is to make her mark on the international scene, leveraging her vast experience in officiating FUFA Women Super League and FUFA Women Elite League games as a referee, as well as Big League and Uganda Premier League matches as a support referee.

Standing next after the fourth official Byaruhanga Henry Bob is Nantongo Rachel Josephine courtesy Photo .

Her exposure to high-level tournaments like the Fresh Dairy USSSA Girls Football Championship, FEASSA Games, and Regional League games has equipped her with the skills and confidence to take on bigger challenges. With her talent and dedication, Nantongo is poised to become a leading referee in Ugandan football.

Barbra Nayebare ‘Barbie’, a committed and hardworking assistant referee, has also earned a spot on the list, thanks to the growth of women’s football in the country.

New FIFA assistant referee Babra Nayebare credit to Jale Morgan

Uganda has been rewarded an increment in female slots for assistant referees, and Nayebare’s appointment is a testament to her exceptional abilities. She has consistently performed well in the Uganda Premier League, Big League, FUFA Women Elite and Super League, Regional League, and DFA level games, demonstrating her readiness to represent Uganda on the global scene.

Nayebare’s task ahead is to continue impressing with her accuracy and professionalism, paving the way for more female referees to follow in her footsteps.

Nayebare Babra during the FIFA Referees MA Course 2025 at FUFA Technical Centre Njeru Courtesy Photo .

Uganda’s FIFA International Referees List for 2026

The list is divided into two sections: Referees and Assistant Referees.

Shamirah Nabadda officiating at AFCON courtesy photo

Referees

1. Duula Joshua (Male, 2025)
2. Kasalirwe Lucky Razake (Male, 2023)
3. Murungi Diana (Female, 2019)
4. Nabadda Shamirah (Female, 2018)
5. Nantongo Josephine (Female, 2026)
6. Okello Dick (Male, 2017)
7. Olemu George (Male, 2022)
8. Oloya William (Male, 2018)

From Your left Nassolo Elizabeth, Middle Shamirah Nabadda & on Your right Musisi Brianson during the warm up at St Mary’s Stadium Kitende as Vipers SC took on SC Villa credit to Zaabu Sports.

Assistant Referees

1. Katenya Ronald (Male, 2015)
2. Kateregga Ashiraf (Male, 2024)
3. Magoola Ashiraf (Male, 2025)
4. Mulindwa Hakim (Male, 2020)
5. Musisi Brianson (Male, 2024)
6. Mutonyi Jane (Female, 2015)
7. Nantabo Lydia (Female, 2015)
8. Nassolo Elizabeth (Female, 2023)
9. Nayebare Babrah (Female, 2026)
10. Okudra Emmanuel (Male, 2020)
11. Ongiera Immaculate (Female, 2024)

Futsal and Beach Socce

Futsal Referees:

Below Mr Ssengendo Isaac

1. Nsubuga Brian Emmy – Male, certified in 2020.
2. Ssengendo Isaac – Male, certified in 2020.

Beach Soccer Referees:

1. Kawagga Bazirio Kennedy – Male, certified in 2019.
2. Kintu Ivan– Male, certified in 2015.
3. Munyendoh Joel Chote– Male, certified in 2022.
4. Senteza Muhammad – Male, certified in 2015.

This list marks a significant milestone in the development of Ugandan refereeing, with new talent emerging and experienced officials continuing to shine