Aminata Fullah Makes History as Sierra Leone’s First Female Referee in Men’s U-20 AFCON Qualifier
Sierra Leonean referee Aminata Fullah has made history after being appointed as the centre referee for the opening-day fixture between Liberia and The Gambia at the WAFU Zone A U-20 Tournament in Mali on Thursday, October 15, 2026.
The appointment makes Fullah the first female referee from Sierra Leone to officiate as a centre referee in a men’s U-20 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, marking a significant milestone for the country’s football officiating.
The achievement adds to Fullah’s growing record of breaking barriers in the sport. She previously became the first Sierra Leonean referee to officiate at an Africa Cup of Nations Women’s Tournament, further strengthening her profile on the regional and continental football stages.

Her latest appointment is also expected to inspire aspiring female referees and young girls across Sierra Leone, demonstrating the opportunities available to women in football through dedication, professionalism, and excellence.
Another Sierra Leonean official, Mamoud Ali Conteh, has also been appointed as an assistant referee for the Liberia–The Gambia fixture, giving the country further representation on the tournament’s officiating team.