Female referees take centre stage in Bulawayo

WOMEN took centre stage in Bulawayo on Tuesday as Zimbabwe’s elite female match officials began an intensive FIFA MA All-Women Referees Course, marking another step towards the development and empowerment of women in football officiating.

The week-long programme brings together the country’s leading female match officials for specialised training, development and preparation aimed at improving their officiating standards and equipping them for higher levels of the game.

The course was officially opened by Zifa Bulawayo Province chairperson Sakhumuzi Ndlovu, with Zifa Referees Committee chairperson Faith Mloyi also in attendance.

Zifa said the programme underscores its commitment to developing female match officials and creating pathways for women to progress within the football structures.

For the participants, the course is more than just a technical exercise. It provides an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen decision-making skills and gain valuable knowledge that can help them officiate matches at the highest level.

The initiative also carries a powerful message for young girls who dream of making their mark in football.

Women are increasingly occupying important positions across the game as players, coaches, administrators and referees, challenging long-held perceptions and demonstrating that football is a game for everyone.

With the whistle in their hands and greater opportunities opening up, Zimbabwe’s female referees are steadily carving out their own path in the sport.

They are not waiting for the future. They are taking charge of it.