Marking a historic moment at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Nigerian Super Eagles are poised to commence their opener with an unprecedented match to be officiated by 35-year-old South African female referee, Akhoma Zenith Makalima.
She is set to make history as the second female referee ever to officiate at a match in AFCON.
Born on March 27, 1988, she earned FIFA international referee status in 2014. She holds a diploma in human resource management from King Hintsa FET College.
As South Africa’s first certified female soccer referee, Makalima boasts an impressive track record officiating in prestigious clubs, including the Premier Soccer League, the SASOL Women’s League, and the South African Football Association (SAFA).
Her global recognition soared when FIFA appointed her to officiate the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia on January 9, 2023.
Renowned for her technical prowess and astute judgment, Makalima envisions herself as a trailblazer in a predominantly male-dominated field.
She asserts: “I see myself as a brand ambassador empowering other women in sport – that’s my five-year plan. I will work very hard and never bend or give up on anything.”
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face Equatorial Guinea in their first outing with an unprecedented match in Group A on Sunday January 14, at the Quattara Stadium in Abidjan at 2.00pm.
Accordingly, all eyes are set to be on Makalima as she adds a new chapter to the history of women in sports officiating, as her journey exemplifies resilience, breaking barriers and championing equality in the world of football presiding.
