The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is fast approaching, and for the first time, Kenya will play a very important role, not just by fans or footballers but by referees, our elite match officials entrusted with upholding the integrity of the continent at large in the biggest football stage.

They have been vetted and selected by the Confederation of African Football( CAF), which is a true testament that Kenya’s image has risen through the years, as matters that match officiating are concerned

The tournament is scheduled to commence from December 21, 2025, to January 18th,2026, in Morocco, and will feature the following Kenyan Officials.

Peter Kamaku Waweru

Kamaku is a center referee and has been in the spotlight for years.

He is a well-known Mathematics professor and a seasoned international referee,

Most remember him during the AFCON 2021 and have been a regular face in the CAF Champions League and World Cup Qualifiers.

His key attributes span so wide, including clarity in decision-making, composure, and academic discipline.

These make him one of the most decorated referees on the continent.

Also Read: Between Glory and Uncertainty: Why World Cup 2026 Will Be a True Test for Football

Dickens Mimisa

Dickens Mimisa has been picked as a Video Assistant Referee( VAR).

Mimisa’s selection as the face of VAR showcases Kenya’s development in competence in the digital era of officiating.

He derived his skills and experience from regional tournaments and a vast reputation for precision in video review.

There is no doubt that he’ll play a vital role in ensuring fair play and accurate decision-making throughout the tournament.

Gilbert Cheruiyot

He is an Assistant Referee.

Cheruiyot brings a ton of experience from the FKF Premier League and CECAFA competitions.

His consistency and sharp positioning on the touchline will come in handy when it’s needed the most.

These have earned him multiple continental assignments. At AFCON, he will be key in supporting the Center referee, largely in controlling the game from different angles and offside calls.

Also Read: CAF Announces AFCON Morocco 2025 Ticket Sale

Stephen Yiembe-Assistant Referee

Yiembe is one face that’s not so well-known to my majority, but few people know him. He’s a rising star in Kenyan football as matters of officiating are concerned.

His recent inclusion in the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup underscores his rapid rise. He boasts full focus and reliability when duty calls.

Yiembe has seen a back-to-back appointment to major tournaments, signaling a promising future in the global setup.

National Milestone

This deserved selection is more than individual recognition.

It’s a collective achievement for the nation at large for the Kenyan football.

It reflects years of commitment and investment in the referee development, training, international exposure, and integrity.

Their presence in Morocco will not only give Kenya a wider scope in football matters but also serve as motivation for younger generations with the hunger to fill their shoes when they exit.

As they prepare to depart for Morocco for their mandatory, pre-tournament course in November, the four officials carry with them the hopes of a nation eager and determined to see its flag fly higher in the vast skies with distinction.

In a tournament, where every decision is key, Kenya offers her best gems ready to deliver with fairness, authority and and pride.

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PHOTO/ CAF