By James Kimani
Kenya will have a strong presence at the 35th edition of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco after four of its referees were named among the 73 officials selected to oversee the tournament scheduled to run from December 21 to January 18. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released the list of referees and assistant referees who will take charge of the 52 matches, and Kenya’s inclusion has been hailed as a testament to the country’s growing reputation in football officiating.
Leading the Kenyan contingent is Professor Peter Kamaku Waweru, a distinguished academic in Pure Mathematics at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Kamaku, aged 43, is the only Kenyan centre referee selected and will be part of the elite group of 28 referees tasked with managing matches at the biennial showpiece. His appointment marks his fourth consecutive AFCON appearance, having first officiated at the 2019 edition in Egypt. His consistency and professionalism have earned him recognition across the continent, and his dual career as a mathematics professor and international referee continues to inspire many young Kenyans.
Joining him are Stephen Yiembe Onyango and Gilbert Cheruiyot, who will serve as assistant referees. Both men are returning for their second consecutive AFCON after being part of the officiating team in Ivory Coast during the 2023 edition. Cheruiyot, who made his debut in 2019, will be making his fourth appearance, while Yiembe embarks on his second assignment. Their inclusion reflects CAF’s confidence in their ability to deliver impartial and high-quality officiating in matches that often attract global attention.
Adding to the Kenyan pride is Dickens Mimisa, who has been appointed as one of the 14 video assistant referees (VAR) for the tournament. This marks his debut at AFCON in the crucial role of ensuring fairness through technology. The introduction of VAR in African football has been a significant step toward aligning with global standards, and Mimisa’s selection highlights Kenya’s growing expertise in modern officiating systems. His role will be pivotal in reviewing contentious decisions and ensuring that the integrity of the game is upheld.
The presence of four Kenyan referees at AFCON is a remarkable achievement, considering the competitive nature of CAF’s selection process. It underscores Kenya’s progress in nurturing refereeing talent and the commitment of local officials to meet international standards. For Kamaku, Cheruiyot, Yiembe, and Mimisa, the tournament offers an opportunity to showcase their skills on one of the biggest stages in African football, while also inspiring the next generation of referees back home.
As the continent gears up for the spectacle in Morocco, Kenya’s representation among the referees is a reminder that the country’s contribution to football extends beyond players and coaches. It is a recognition of the discipline, dedication, and professionalism of officials who ensure that the spirit of fair play is maintained. Their journey to AFCON is not only a personal triumph but also a national milestone, reinforcing Kenya’s place in the broader African football fraternity.
John Kariuki