Among the new appointments are Célestin Nsabimana, who has been selected as a center referee, and Emmanuel Habumugisha, appointed as an assistant referee. They replace Nsoro Ruzindana, who has been a center referee for eight years, and Raymond Nonati Bwiliza, who had been an assistant referee for 12 years, both of whom have been removed from the list.
In another key appointment, Henriette Byukusenge steps in as a new FIFA-approved female center referee, taking over from Mukansanga Salima, who transitioned to a role as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
This makes a total of 17 referees now officially recognized by FIFA, well-represented across various categories. Rwanda’s representation on the international stage in 2025 will include the following;
Male Center Referees: Abdoul Karim Twagirumukiza, Jean Claude Ishimwe, Samuel Uwikunda, Patience Fidèle Rulisa and Célestin Nsabimana.
Male Assistant Referees: Saïd Hamisi Ndayisaba, Eric Mugabo, Justin Karangwa, Dieudonné Mutuyimana, Didier Ishimwe, and Emmanuel Hamugisha.
Female Center Referees: Aline Umutoni and Henriette Byukusenge.
Female Assistant Referees: Sandrine Murangwa Usenga, Alice Umutesi, Régine Mukayirangwa and Juliette Akimana.
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