By Edwin Mbewe

LILONGWE–(MaraviPost)-The Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA) has appointed three Malawian referees to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between the Central African Republic and Mali, scheduled for March 24, 2025, in Casablanca, Morocco.

Godfrey Philip Nkhakananga, the 2024 Football Association of Malawi (FAM) Best Referee award winner, will serve as the center referee. He will be assisted by Pondamali Tembo (first assistant) and Clemence Kanduku (second assistant).

Nkhakananga has been making a name for himself on the international stage, having officiated over 10 international matches last year, including qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and the CAF Confederation Cup.

Some of his notable assignments in 2024 included officiating the African Cup of Nations match between Nigeria and Libya, as well as the 2026 World Cup qualifier between Sierra Leone and Djibouti.

Meanwhile, CAF has appointed Malawian referee assessor Martha Nyekanyeka for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Benin.

The match will take place on March 16, 2025, at Complexe Omnisports Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, DRC, kicking off at 15:30 hours.

Reacting to the appointments, FAM Referees Manager Duncan Lengani expressed his delight, saying the recognition will motivate other referees in Malawi.

“The appointment not only enhances the country’s football reputation but also provides valuable experience and exposure for our referees,” said Lengani.

He addded, “This development can have a positive impact on the overall quality of football in Malawi and inspire future generations of referees and players as we continue to transform the game.”