The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, commenced a five-day Beach Soccer Referees Course in Salima as part of efforts to strengthen officiating standards in the discipline.
The course runs from 27 to 31 May 2026. Successful participants will be certified as FIFA MA Beach Soccer Referees and become eligible for appointment to regional and international beach soccer fixtures.
The training has brought together 25 Malawian referees selected from regional associations for intensive sessions on the FIFA Beach Soccer Laws of the Game, match management and physical conditioning on sand.
FAM Executive Committee member and Referees Committee Chairperson Patrick Kapanga said the course is important as FAM continues to professionalise officiating across all football disciplines.
“It is important for the Association to conduct this course as we are trying to align beach soccer refereeing with football refereeing standards,” said Kapanga.
“We want to encourage professionalism among our beach soccer referees because they officiate many competitions. We want them to be conversant with the laws of the game at international level,” he added.
FIFA Technical Instructor Likhdar Benchabane said he was pleased to be part of the programme in Malawi.
“I am very happy to be here and assist in facilitating this course. I am sure this course will help referees become more knowledgeable and acquire important skills,” he said.
Malawi has continued to prioritise beach soccer development since the national team made its debut in 2015. The country also hosted the 2022 COSAFA Beach Soccer Championship in Salima.
