Online Reporter
Innocent Kurira, Zimpapers Sports Hub
BRIGHTON Chimene has etched his name into Zimbabwean football history.
The 35-year-old referee from Rusape has become the first official from the country to earn an appointment to the African Nations Championship (Chan), which runs from August 2 to 30, 2025.
The tournament, exclusively for players from domestic leagues across the continent, will be co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, marking the first time the event is being staged jointly by three nations.
Chimene’s selection by the Confederation of African Football (Caf) is a major milestone in his career and a moment of national pride for Zimbabwe.
He is among 75 elite referees chosen to handle matches at the prestigious tournament.
This Chan call-up is Chimene’s second major continental assignment this year, having officiated at the Afcon Under-17 tournament just three months ago.
His growing CV includes stints in World Cup qualifiers, Caf Champions League matches, and Cosafa competitions.
A four time Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League Referee of the Year, Chimene has earned a reputation for consistency and professionalism, making him Zimbabwe’s top ranked match official.
Earlier in 2025, Chimene was promoted to Fifa’s Elite B panel.
The elevation places him one rung below World Cup eligible referees and qualifies him to officiate at Caf’s premier competitions, including Afcon and Chan.
Notably, Chimene’s appointment ends a 17-year absence of Zimbabwean referees at major continental tournaments.
The last was Kenny Marange, who officiated at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon).
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) welcomed the news.
“Referee Brighton Chimene has been appointed by Caf to officiate at the 2025 Chan tournament, set for 2 to 30 August in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
He becomes the first Zimbabwean to referee at a Chan tournament and the first to officiate at a major continental showpiece since Kenny Marange at Afcon 2008.
A landmark moment for Zimbabwean officiating and a proud chapter for local football,” said Zifa.
