NAIROBI — Kenyan officiating has received a significant shot in the arm after five elite referees officially earned their FIFA Badges, following the successful completion of the FIFA MA Elite Referees Course held in October this year.
The new inductions mean Kenya will now boast a total of 16 international match officials available for high-profile FIFA and CAF assignments, including World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The New Class of 2026
The five newcomers have been elevated to the FIFA International Referees List after demonstrating exceptional physical and technical proficiency during the grueling
October assessment.
Center Referees (CR):
Isaac Hamisi
Edwin Mangoli
Assistant Referees (AR):
Phanuel Muyelele
Doreen Kendi
Virginia Waithera
Mixed Fortunes: Retentions and Departures
While the new additions bring fresh blood to the ranks, the list also saw a shake-up based on performance reviews. Eleven officials successfully retained their status, led by the experienced Peter Waweru, who continues to be Kenya’s flagbearer on the continental stage.
However, the “FIFA dream” ended for three officials—Erick Njogu, Brooke Phillips, and Oliver Odhiambo—who were struck off the list following what the federation cited as “poor performance” in recent evaluations.
Additionally, two veteran officials, Mary Njoroge and Carolyne Kiles, officially exited the list due to retirement, marking the end of distinguished careers.
Full List of Retained FIFA Officials
These officials will remain eligible for international duty throughout the 2026 calendar year:
- Peter Waweru, Center Referee)
2 | Kevin Maina (Center Referee) - Dickens Mimisa ( Center Referee )
- Josephine Wanjiku ( Center Referee )
- Lucy Juma (Center Referee)
- Elizabeth Njoroge ( Assistant Refereen)
- Gilbert Cheruiyot ( Assistant Referee )
- Stephen Yiembe ( Assistant Referee )
9 Samuel Kuria ( Assistant Referee )
10 Adam Juma ( Assistant Referee )
11 Bonface Karanja ( Assistant Referee )
That’s fantastic news for Kenyan football! It’s great to see our referees getting this recognition and support.