Shamirah Nabadda named Africa’s Best Female Football Referee
Uganda’s trailblazing referee earns continental recognition for excellence on the pitch, inspiring women across Afric
Ugandan football shines as Shamirah Nabadda is named CAF Women’s Referee of the Year 2025 at the awards in Rabat, Morocco.
The accolade recognizes her consistency, composure, and authority on the field, highlighted by standout performances at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), WAFCON tournaments, and the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she became Uganda’s first female referee at the Games.
Starting her refereeing journey in 2015, Nabadda quickly rose through the ranks, earning her FIFA badge in 2018 and becoming the youngest female centre referee in Uganda Premier League history.
She said, “This recognition is not just mine, it belongs to every aspiring female referee in Africa. I hope it inspires more women to pursue their dreams in football officiating.”
Nabadda’s achievement marks a milestone for Uganda and African women in football officiating, inspiring a new generation of referees across the continent.
