The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named Namibian referee Antsino Twanyanyukwa as the center referee for the highly anticipated 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final between host nation Morocco and record champions Nigeria, scheduled for Saturday, July 26, at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat.
Twanyanyukwa’s appointment marks a historic moment as she becomes the first Namibian to officiate a WAFCON final. Her selection follows a string of strong performances throughout the tournament, earning her recognition from CAF’s Referees Committee.
Speaking about the honour, the trailblazing referee expressed both surprise and gratitude. “I didn’t expect this at all; I’m still in shock. But with God, all things are possible,” Twanyanyukwa said. “WAFCON is a major competition, and expectations are high. We have to go in with the mindset that the whole continent is watching and give our absolute best.”
She added, “Personally, I believe I have the talent and potential. Now, it’s my opportunity to prove it on the pitch. I hope this moment inspires many young people in Namibia and beyond. Work hard, stay disciplined, and pray — nothing is impossible.”
CAF’s Head of Refereeing, Desire Noumandiez Doue, praised her consistent quality and preparedness throughout the tournament. “Their appointment was informed by their consistent performance. It is the result of their hard work, both in training and in the matches they’ve officiated, as well as their overall readiness,” he noted.
Twanyanyukwa will be supported on the sidelines by assistant referees Alice Umutesi of Rwanda and Tabara Mbodji of Senegal.
In the VAR booth, experienced Rwandan official Salima Mukansanga — the first woman to officiate at the men’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2022 — will lead video review operations. She will be assisted by Letticia Viana of Eswatini (AVAR 1) and Diana Chikotesha of Zambia (AVAR 2).
The final sets up a rematch of the 2022 WAFCON semi-final, where host Morocco edged Nigeria on penalties. The Super Falcons will be aiming to avenge that loss and secure a record-extending 10th continental title under the guidance of head coach Justin Madugu.
Morocco, meanwhile, will be seeking their first-ever WAFCON crown, buoyed by home support and momentum from their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Ghana in the semi-finals.
