Ugandan Referee Ronald Okello completes IBA Star 1 course in Tanzania

By Emmanuel Sekago

Uganda’s Ronald Okello was among 36 participants from Kenya, host Tanzania, and Namibia who successfully completed the IBA Star 1 Referee & Judge course.

The course, hosted by the Boxing Federation of Tanzania (BFT) at the Dar es Salaam Police Academy (DPA), concluded on Saturday, August 10th, 2024, after an intensive week of training.

The program was overseen by the International Boxing Association (IBA) with instruction provided by Sadie Martina Duffy from the Republic of Ireland, Chairperson of the IBA Referees and Judges Committee, and Godavarisingh Rajcoomar from Mauritius, Chairperson of the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) Referees and Judges Committee.

In an interview with Wallnetnews, Uganda Boxing Federation (UBF) President Moses Muhangi emphasized the importance of the course in enhancing the knowledge and skills of referees and judges.
“The training was not only about imparting new knowledge and skills to our officials but also about laying a foundation for the sustainable development of boxing in Uganda. We believe boxing has the potential to elevate Uganda’s international status, and investing in the training of our experts is crucial,” Muhangi stated.

Muhangi highlighted the significance of Tanzania’s partnership with the IBA in hosting the course, noting that the involvement of esteemed international instructors provided invaluable insights and skills to the participants. “By partnering with the IBA, Tanzania ensured that our referees and judges received top-notch training, which will open new global opportunities for them,” he said.

Expressing optimism about the course’s impact, Muhangi added, “This was a significant opportunity for our country. I anticipate that Ronald Okello has gained the expertise needed to represent Uganda effectively in international competitions, ensuring professional and accurate officiating.”The successful completion of the IBA Star 1 course by Mr. Ronald Okello marks a significant step forward for boxing officiating in Uganda.

With enhanced skills and knowledge, his better equipped to contribute to the sport’s development and uphold the highest standards in international competitions.

The Uganda Boxing Federation remains committed to investing in the growth and professionalism of boxing, both at home and on the global stage.