Ibrahim Kabia Appointed to ICC Umpire Development Panel B Africa

Sierra Leone cricket has recorded another significant achievement following the appointment of Ibrahim Kabia to the ICC Umpire Development Panel B Africa for a two-year term spanning from May 2026 to May 2028.

The appointment gives Kabia the opportunity to officiate in ICC-sanctioned tournaments across the continent, making him the fourth Sierra Leonean to attain such a level in international cricket officiating.

Kabia, an ICC-certified Umpire Level 1 Tutor, is widely regarded as one of the officials nurtured and empowered under the leadership of Cricket Sierra Leone Board Chairman, Francis Trevor Samura and his administration.

His rise within international cricket officiating follows a steady progression through the ranks. In May 2025, Kabia was trained and certified locally by Cricket Sierra Leone before being nominated alongside fellow official John Bangura for further training in Accra, Ghana, in June 2025. Both officials successfully completed the programme and earned certification as ICC Umpire Level 1 Tutors.

Following a rigorous interview process, Kabia secured his latest appointment to the ICC Umpire Development Panel B Africa, marking another proud moment for Sierra Leone cricket and reinforcing the country’s growing reputation in cricket officiating.

Interestingly, Francis Trevor Samura was the first Sierra Leonean to be appointed to the same ICC panel in 2018, a milestone that laid the foundation for increased international recognition of Sierra Leonean cricket officials.

Beyond officiating, Kabia also possesses a distinguished playing career. He previously captained Sierra Leone’s Under-17 and Under-19 national cricket teams and represented the Patriots senior national side. He currently serves as Head of the Sierra Leone Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association.

The Board and Management of Cricket Sierra Leone have congratulated Kabia on the achievement, expressing confidence that his success will inspire more local umpires to pursue officiating professionally and help increase Sierra Leone’s representation in international cricket.