Kho Kho Uganda Strengthens Officiating with Certification of 47 National Referees
By Lawrence Mubiru
Kho Kho Uganda has taken a major step towards strengthening the governance and professionalism of the sport after successfully certifying 47 Level One National Referees during a two-day National Refereeing Course held at Kyambogo College School in Kampala.
The intensive training brought together aspiring referees from different parts of the country, equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills required to officiate Kho Kho matches in accordance with national standards. The initiative forms part of the association’s broader strategy to build a strong technical foundation as the sport continues to grow across Uganda.
Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Kho Kho Uganda President Nsubuga Mustafa congratulated the newly certified referees and reminded them of the vital responsibility they now carry in safeguarding the integrity of the game.
“Referees are the custodians of fair play. A game dies on the pitch if referees fail to protect it. Discipline, fairness, and consistency are the foundation of every successful sport,” he said.
He further encouraged the officials to demonstrate professionalism, impartiality, and integrity both on and off the field, noting that the future of Kho Kho in Uganda will largely depend on the quality of officiating.
The graduates welcomed the training as a landmark opportunity to advance their careers while contributing to the development of the sport. They praised Kho Kho Uganda for organizing a comprehensive course that combined classroom learning with practical sessions, leaving them better prepared to officiate national competitions.
The certification of the 47 referees marks another important milestone in Kho Kho Uganda’s mission to establish a robust officiating structure capable of supporting the sport’s rapid expansion. With a growing number of trained coaches, players, and now certified referees, the association continues to lay the foundation for sustainable growth and improved standards across the country.
As Kho Kho gains momentum in schools, communities, and competitive competitions nationwide, the newly certified referees are expected to play a crucial role in ensuring every match is conducted with fairness, professionalism, and respect for the laws of the game.