From November 13th to 16th, 2025, the Hilltop Hotel in Kigali becomes a ground of growth, not for players this time, but for the theory sessions for those who guard the game’s justice or the referees.

A total of 100 participants, among them, 73 young men and 27 women, step forward to refine their craft. They begin with the Fitness Test, a measure not only of stamina but of discipline, then, in the classroom, they journey through the sacred text of football, the Laws of the Game, learning every modification, every amendment, every nuance that keeps the sport fair and alive.

Later, they take it to the field. Practicing, correcting, and understanding real-game errors with the help of players. Every whistle, every signal, every decision, sharpened through practice and purpose.

Guided by the Technical Instructors, namely, HAKIZIMANA Louis (Commissioner in charge of the Refereeing Commission), HAKIZIMANA Ambroise, SEKAMANA Abdoulkhaliq, MUNYEMANA Hudu, KAGABO Issa, NIYITEGEKA Jean Bosco, and NYINAWABARI Speciose.

And trained in endurance and strength by the renowned Fitness Instructors, KAGABO Ahmed, KARAMBIZI Rabin, HAKIZIMANA Honore, and MUJAWAYEZU RURABO Aimée.

This course is more than learning. It’s a rebirth of integrity, a reaffirmation that football’s fairness lives through those who blow the whistle with wisdom, the Commissioner Louis said. “Refereeing is not just about enforcing rules. It’s about protecting the spirit of the game. “This course ensures our referees, men and women alike, are fit in body, sharp in mind, and fair in judgment. Every match deserves justice, and justice begins with preparation.”