Kirwa confident officiating levels will improve as FIFA Referee Assessment Program ends

FKF Referees Manager Sylvester Kirwa is confident that the level of refereeing in the local league will see improvement through FIFA intervention.

This assurance came after the conclusion of a five-day FIFA referee assessment program on December 8, 2023, at Kipchoge Keino Stadium.

FIFA Referee assessment

Designed to elevate referees’ capabilities, the program focused on enhancing their understanding of the rules, refining technical skills, and improving physical aspects.

The overarching goal was to enhance the quality of match officials, thereby raising the overall standard of refereeing in the country.

Kirwa noted that several referees participating in the program were also preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the Women’s World Cup matches.

He emphasized the positive impact of FIFA’s intervention on improving refereeing standards, especially in the local leagues.

“Through the intervention of FIFA, we will improve our refereeing, especially in our leagues. We are here with quite a number of referees preparing for AFCON and from the (Women’s) World Cup,” stated Kirwa.

First assessment

This assessment marked the first time in four years that such a program was conducted in the country due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which was followed by the country’s suspension by FIFA in 2022. The referees received guidance from FIFA Technical Instructor Carlos Henriques.

The program, facilitated by FKF, reflects a deliberate effort to enhance the levels of officiating in the country and produce referees capable of handling international assignments.