The upcoming FIFA Women’s Soccer World Cup, which will be held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20, 2023, will feature 33 referees. The Eastern Cape’s MEC for Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture, Nonceba Kontsiwe, has congratulated female referee Akhona Makalima on her selection.
As a match official, she is the only female South African chosen.
After receiving money from the department’s program designed to train referees in East London, Makalima, who was born in Ngqamakwe, became the first certified female soccer referee in South Africa.
She serves as a referee for the South African Football Association, the Premier Soccer League, FIFA, and the Sasol Women’s League. The Eastern Cape Women in Sport Support Network counts her among its members.
Makalima’s callout, according to MEC Kontsiwe, is wonderful news for the province.
“We wish Akhona Makalima well. Our efforts were successful when she was called out. Our effort has paid off when a young woman from Ngcisininde Village in Nqamakwe jets off to officiate on a significant international stage like the Fifa Women’s Soccer World Cup. This proves that the opportunities are endless if you are committed to your craft. Knowing that she is inspiring young ladies is something we are proud of, MEC Kontiwe explained.
