Referees body hails female referees

The National Referees Association (NRFA) has hailed the performance of three local referees at the ongoing Cosafa Women’s Championship in Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

The three are centre referee Mercy Kayira, assistant referee Happiness Mbandambanda and referee assessor Martha Nyekanyeka.

NRFA General Secretary Chris Kalichero said the three referees had done the nation proud.

“We, as a country, have always sent top referees to Cosafa Cup and we are happy that they are also performing well,” Kalichero said.

Mbandambanda and Nyekanyeka were also part of the 2020 Cosafa Cup but this is her first time at the regional showpiece.

Kayira replaced Agnes Chamayere, who has not been selected for two consecutive editions after failing physical fitness test.

In reaction, Nyekanyeka said she felt humbled to have been recognised.

“It feels good but we are working under pressure because we assess the referees. I am enjoying the job,” she added.

Last year, promising assistant referee Eliza Sichinga also officiated at the Under-17 Cosafa Women’s Championship in South Africa.

Several local referees have been officiating international competitions. Renowned female referee Bernadette Kwimbira Nzika was also part of the officiating panel at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in Japan.