For Africa, the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco is more than just another football tournament — it’s a celebration of progress, pride, and representation on the global stage. This time, it won’t just be the players flying the African flag high. The continent’s top women referees are set to make their mark, further affirming Africa’s growing impact in the world of football officiating.

Among the 18 referees selected worldwide by FIFA are two standout African officials — Josephine Wanjiru of Kenya and Mauritania’s Yacine Samassa. These women are not only masters of the whistle; they are pioneers who have earned global respect through years of dedication and excellence in officiating.

Their journey reflects the steady rise of African women in football’s backroom and technical spaces — a movement backed strongly by CAF’s continuous investments in referee development and gender inclusion.

Joining them as assistant referees are four more remarkable women from across the continent: Egypt’s Yara Atef, Rwanda’s Alice Umutesi, Burundi’s Fides Bangurambona, and Senegal’s Tabara Mbodji. Together, this all-African team of six officials showcases the depth of officiating talent rising from Africa’s heartlands — a signal that the future is not just bright, but female.

With Morocco playing host, this World Cup becomes even more symbolic. Not only is it the first time the tournament lands on African soil, but it will also spotlight homegrown officiating talent on the world’s biggest youth stage. Their presence will serve as inspiration for countless girls and young women who dream not only of scoring goals but also of calling the shots.

Africa isn’t just participating — it’s leading. From the touchline to the center circle, the continent’s women are standing tall, blowing the whistle for change.