#AFCON2021: Rhadia Mukansanga makes history as first-ever woman’s referee to officiate at the tournament (photos)

Female referee, Salima Rhadia Mukansanga has made history by becoming the first woman to referee a match at the ongoing men’s AFCON 2021 in Cameroon. 

The Rwandan female match official, 35,  is currently taking charge of the match between Zimbabwe and Guinea at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium in Yaounde.

Her designation is said to have come as a demonstration of CAF’s “commitment and investment to improve and advance the standard of refereeing in Africa”.

In a statement, CAF’s Head of Referees, Eddy Maillet said: “we are super proud of Salima because she has had to work exceptionally hard to be where she is today. We know that for a woman, she has had to overcome serious obstacles to reach this level and she deserves a lot of credit.” 

He added that “this moment is not just for Salima but for every young girl in Africa who has passion for football and who sees herself as a referee in the future.”