Rwanda’s Mukansanga becomes first woman to referee AFCON match

Rwandan Salima Mukansanga has become the first woman to referee an Africa Cup of Nations match.

She officiated the Group B clash between Guinea and Zimbabwe at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde on Tuesday.

On 10 January, 2022, Mukansanga made history by becoming the first woman to officiate a match in the Africa Cup of Nations when she was appointed as a fourth official in the game between Guinea and Malawi in Bafoussam.

CAF Head of Referees, Eddy Maillet, had in a statement said; ”the historic moment was as a result of CAF’s clear commitment and investment to improve and advance the standard of refereeing in Africa.”

Maillet said; “We are super proud of Salima because she has had to work exceptionally hard to be where she is today. We know that as a woman, she has had to overcome serious obstacles to reach this level and she deserves a lot of credit.

“This moment is not just for Salima but for every young girl in Africa who has passion for football and who sees herself as a referee in the future.”

PUNCH/Mercy Chukwudiebere