SLFA Strengthens Refereeing Capacity Through FIFA Youth Training Course

The Sierra Leone Football Association has taken another major step toward improving football officiating standards in the country after successfully concluding a five-day FIFA MA Course for Youth Referees in Bo City.

The intensive training programme brought together promising young referees from across Sierra Leone, equipping them with modern officiating techniques, practical match management skills, and a deeper understanding of the Laws of the Game.

The initiative forms part of the SLFA’s long-term strategy to develop competent match officials capable of officiating at both national and international levels.

The course was facilitated by FIFA technical experts, including FIFA Technical Instructor Ali Mohamed Ahmed of Somalia and FIFA Fitness Instructor Bento Tomas Navesse of Mozambique, who commended participants for their discipline, enthusiasm, and strong willingness to learn throughout the programme.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, officials urged the newly trained referees to uphold discipline, integrity, and professionalism as they progress in their refereeing careers. They emphasized that continuous learning and dedication remain key requirements for advancement to higher levels of the game.

The SLFA Referees Committee also expressed confidence that the training has strengthened the pool of young match officials and will significantly improve the quality of refereeing across Sierra Leone.

The successful completion of the programme underscores the SLFA’s ongoing commitment to referee education and capacity building as part of its broader football development agenda.

With the Youth Referees Course concluded, attention now turns to the upcoming FIFA MA Course for Elite Referees, which is expected to further enhance the development of high-quality match officials capable of representing Sierra Leone on the continental and global stage.