Coast region referees undergo PET as FKF push for higher standards

Over 60 referees from Kenya’s coastal region gathered at Serani Grounds in Mombasa County on Friday for a rigorous performance assessment, part of a nationwide effort by the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to raise the bar in local officiating.

Organised by the FKF Mombasa branch, the session aimed to sharpen referees’ skills and emphasize integrity, discipline, and professionalism in the beautiful game.

FKF officials urged referees to uphold the spirit of fair play and strictly adhere to the rules of the game to minimise on-field conflicts and ensure smooth match experiences.

Speaking during the exercise, FIFA international referee and referees’ instructor Dickens Mimisa reminded participants that refereeing is more than a side hustle - it’s a viable career.

“Refereeing is a job. At senior levels, you can earn substantial money, and even at the grassroots, there are earning opportunities,” said Mimisa.

“We have referees at the international level whose sole profession is officiating. Some have gone on to fund major community projects - hospitals, stadiums. If we invest in it, refereeing can truly pay off.”

Mimisa who was flagged by Elizabeth Njoroge Assistant FIFA referee in the training expressed optimism about the region’s future:

“I’m confident we’ll soon have many FIFA-certified referees from the Coast. The training was productive, and the talent here is undeniable.”

FKF Mombasa Secretary General Stephen Mureithi echoed the federation’s commitment to developing not only referees, but also coaches and players.

“While our county league is on a break, we’re taking this time to uplift all stakeholders - including our coaching staff - with regular training.”

He added his appreciation for the support of elite referees:

“I’m thankful our FIFA referees stepped in to mentor grassroots officials. Even those who missed this training will benefit as knowledge trickles down.”

FKF Mombasa Chair Alamin Ahmed Abdallah emphasized the strategic importance of investing in officiating:

“To raise the standard of football in the Coast region, we must begin with quality officiating - and that’s what we’re doing now,” he said.

“We’re proud to have five Coast players in the current Harambee Stars squad. With continuous referee training and development, that number is bound to grow.”

Abdallah also revealed ongoing efforts to secure more sponsorship to expand the reach of FKF’s training initiatives across the region.

The exercise was supervised by FKF referee assessors Ashira Zakaria and Diona Demba.