In the heart of Kampala, where the streets hum with life and the air is rich with anticipation, Lucky Razake often reminisces about his first officiating experience—a chaotic neighborhood football game where he had to separate feuding players. “Back then,” he chuckles, “the whistle barely worked, and the rules were just suggestions.” Fast forward to today, Razake, alongside Ronald Katenya, stands poised to officiate at one of Africa’s premier football tournaments—the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
Selected by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the duo has carved a niche in the competitive world of refereeing. Their assignment to CHAN, a tournament showcasing the best domestic-based football talent, is a crowning moment for Uganda’s burgeoning sports industry. Co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the event from February 1st to 28th, 2025, presents a unique opportunity for Razake and Katenya to demonstrate their mettle on an international stage.
This milestone isn’t just about personal triumph; it speaks volumes about Uganda’s rising reputation in the global football arena. As the saying goes, “Iron sharpens iron,” and years of refining their craft under intense scrutiny have prepared these referees for the task ahead. Their journey highlights the significance of discipline, fairness, and unwavering focus—qualities that make or break moments in high-stakes matches.
