FIFA referee Mimisa backs Kenya and East Africa to embrace VAR

FIFA referee Dickens Mimisa is confident that Kenya and the wider East African region will soon adopt Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, as global football increasingly leans on innovation to enhance officiating.

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Mimisa, who served as the fourth official in the final of the just-concluded Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) between Morocco and Madagascar, said the use of VAR at the tournament showcased the positive impact technology can have on refereeing.

“VAR has brought a new edge into the game. It has allowed referees to have a second chance to look at critical decisions. The VAR protocol in itself allows referees to review only specific items, those that directly affect the outcome of the game,” Mimisa told Telecomasia.net.

He added that for Africa, where most domestic leagues do not use VAR, exposure at tournaments such as CHAN has been invaluable.

“We are delighted because we don’t get to learn only in matches, but even our training now incorporates VAR. The only challenge is when you come off a tournament where you are used to the system, then return home and there is no VAR.”

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While VAR remains an expensive undertaking, Mimisa believes federations in the region can still benefit from scaled-down versions.

“IFAB (International Football Association Board) is trying to bring VAR to the lowest possible level. There is now the introduction of the video assistant role on pitches, something that is less costly than the full VAR system. This allows referees to revisit decisions on a screen without the heavy equipment,” he explained.

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For full VAR implementation, however, all league matches need to be broadcast or at least have the required broadcast infrastructure in place.

With FKF Premier League broadcast partner Azam TV set to televise more games this season, Mimisa sees an opening for Kenya to take the first steps toward integrating VAR.

“VAR will not only improve decision-making but also help grow refereeing in Kenya,” he said, expressing optimism that the region will eventually embrace the technology.