Meet Nakuru-born football referees representing Kenya at the Africa Cup of Nations
A photo of Stephen Yiembe at the Africa Cup of Nations games.
Despite the general excitement surrounding the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) matches, the people of Nakuru have more to look forward to than just watching the games.
This is thanks to Stephen Yiembe and Gilbert Cheruiyot, who are part of the team of assistant referees selected to oversee the matches currently taking place in Côte d'Ivoire.
During the Tunisia-Namibia game, not only was Nakuru represented but also Kenya by Yiembe and Cheruiyot, who served as assistant referees for the thrilling encounter.
Speaking to Mtaa Wangu, Francis Oliele, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) chairman for Nakuru County, said the pair were among the best referees in the county and the country.
"Stephen Yiembe hails from Nakuru Town East and is a qualified Kenya Premier League assistant referee who has been officiating for 10 years. About three years ago he was selected by FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) as an assistant referee but he developed an injury to his arm string which kept him out for two years but he came back last season," said Oliele.
It was clear from the match that Yiembe was no amateur with the flair and composure he displayed.
A photo of Gilbert Cheruiyot.
According to Oliele, Cheruiyot is a senior referee; he even says that some of those he started officiating with are now retired.
"Gilbert started his career in Mogotio and then moved to Nakuru Town East and he is one of FIFA's elite referees and has officiated at both the Olympics and Confederation of African Football (CAF) matches. As Nakuru County, we are very proud of them and impressed with the way they are conducting themselves in the ongoing tournament," he said.