Nabadda Crowned 2025 CAF Women’s Referee Of The Year

Shamirah Nabadda Crowned 2025 CAF Women’s Referee of the Year

Ugandan referee Shamirah Nabadda has made history, winning the CAF Women’s Referee of the Year award at the 2025 CAF Awards in Rabat, Morocco. This prestigious recognition solidifies her position as one of Africa’s top referees, showcasing her exceptional skills, composure, and professionalism.

Nabadda’s impressive performance in several notable tournaments earned her this award, including the CAF U-20 AFCON in Egypt, the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) opening game between Morocco and Zambia, the African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, and the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic. She is the first Ugandan referee to officiate at the latter event.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s football history, highlighting the country’s growing presence in global football officiating.

Nabadda’s inspiring journey from playing football in Masaka to becoming an internationally recognized referee is breaking barriers for women in African football, making her a role model for aspiring referees.

Nabadda’s success is expected to inspire a new generation of Ugandan match officials, particularly women, to pursue careers in refereeing, demonstrating that with determination and talent, African women can excel in football officiating.

Her hard work and dedication have paid off, and this recognition is a proud moment for the Ugandan refereeing fraternity.