Zambian FIFA-certified assistant referee Nancy Kasitu says her experience at the concluded 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco has strengthened her confidence and ambition to reach greater heights in her career.
Kasitu was part of the officiating team at the tournament and made a deep run, serving as reserve assistant referee during the bronze medal match between Morocco and Algeria.
Speaking to Bola News, Kasitu described representing Zambia at the continental tournament as a “great honor” and a proud moment in her refereeing career.
“Representing Zambia at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco was a great honor and a very proud moment for me,” Kasitu said.
“Being selected to officiate at such a prestigious continental tournament meant carrying not only my personal aspirations but also the hopes and pride of Zambia.”
Kasitu said the tournament provided valuable exposure to some of Africa’s leading players and match officials while giving her an opportunity to demonstrate her abilities at the highest level.
She, however, noted that officiating at WAFCON demanded exceptional concentration, physical fitness, and mental preparation, particularly when making offside decisions and maintaining positioning during quick transitions.
“At an international tournament, even a small lapse in concentration can have a major impact on a match,” she said.
“Want to Make Zambia Proud” – Kasitu.
Kasitu also praised the standard of refereeing at the tournament, describing it as high while highlighting the growing importance of VAR in modern football.
“VAR has also become an important part of modern officiating. Its presence means that officials must understand not only the Laws of the Game but also the protocols governing when and how technology can intervene,” she said.
She added that technology had not removed the responsibility of match officials to make accurate decisions in real time.
The WAFCON experience also exposed Kasitu to experienced officials from across Africa, from whom she said she learned the importance of preparation, professionalism, discipline, and consistency.
“One major lesson I took from the tournament is that there is always room for improvement, regardless of your level of experience,” she said.
Looking ahead, Kasitu wants to build on her WAFCON experience by securing more CAF and FIFA appointments and eventually officiating at other major international competitions.
“My ambition is to continue developing and to become a stronger and more consistent international assistant referee,” she said.
“Most importantly, I want to make Zambia proud whenever I represent the country internationally.”
Kasitu believes her journey can also inspire more young women to pursue careers in football officiating, insisting that hard work, discipline, and commitment can open the door to the international stage.
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