Somali Referee Omar Artan to Officiate CECAFA Kagame Cup Final in Kigali

International Somali referee Omar Artan has arrived in Kigali, Rwanda, ahead of the 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup final, where he is set to officiate the tournament's culminating match on Friday. Artan's appointment to the showpiece event highlights his esteemed reputation, having been ranked as Africa's top referee in 2025 following a series of distinguished performances in major continental and international competitions.

His selection to oversee the CECAFA Kagame Cup final is a clear indication of the tournament's dedication to upholding rigorous officiating standards for one of East and Central Africa's most prestigious club competitions. The Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) aims to ensure the integrity and fairness of its premier event by entrusting it to a highly respected official.

Omar Artan previously garnered international attention earlier this year when he was denied entry into the United States, where he had been scheduled to officiate matches at the 2026 FIFA World CupCompetition·FIFA World Cup. This incident prompted considerable discussion within the global football community regarding the implications for international sporting events and the movement of match officials. Despite that particular setback, Artan has consistently received top-level assignments across Africa, further solidifying his position as one of the continent's most respected referees.

His presence in Kigali is anticipated to lend additional credibility to Friday's final, as the two competing clubs vie for regional club football's coveted title. The CECAFA Kagame Cup, named in honour of Rwandan President Paul Kagame, unites champion clubs from across the CECAFA region. It stands as one of the region's longest-running and most prestigious football tournaments, with this year's edition drawing strong competition and expected to attract a significant crowd in Kigali.