Rwandan international referee Uwikunda Samuel has been reassigned to officiate a different match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following changes made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Uwikunda was initially appointed as the fourth official for the match between Mali and Comoros, scheduled for Monday night. However, CAF later announced that he would instead take charge of the match between Benin and Senegal, set to be played on Tuesday night.
CAF announces officiating changes
According to CAF, Uwikunda has been replaced on the Mali vs Comoros match by Burundian referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana. The decision forms part of routine officiating adjustments made during major tournaments.
The Benin vs Senegal match will be played on Tuesday at 9:00 PM, as part of Group D fixtures at AFCON 2025.
Rwanda’s sole representative at AFCON 2025
Uwikunda Samuel is the only Rwandan referee officiating at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This marks his second consecutive AFCON appearance, following his participation in the 2024 tournament in Côte d’Ivoire.
The 37-year-old referee has already featured in two matches at the ongoing tournament. He officiated as the center referee in the match where Côte d’Ivoire defeated Mozambique 1–0, and later served as the fourth official during Egypt’s 1–0 victory over South Africa.
Officiating team for Benin vs Senegal
In the Benin vs Senegal encounter, Uwikunda will be assisted by Kenyan referees Gilbert Kipkoech Cheruiyot and Stephen Eleazar Onyango Yiembe, who will serve as assistant referees. Peter Wawelu Kamaku, also from Kenya, will act as the fourth official.
Continued recognition for Rwandan officiating
Uwikunda’s appointment to oversee a high-profile Group D match highlights CAF’s continued confidence in his officiating abilities and reflects Rwanda’s growing presence in continental football officiating.
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