The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) has launched a Code of Conduct for Referees Assessors, a landmark step towards improving officiating standards in Malawian football.
This was revealed this morning during the opening ceremony of the first-ever Referee Assessors Training Seminar at Mpira Village in Blantyre.
FAM President Fleetwood Haiya described the development as a key milestone in the ongoing Transforming the Game of Football” agenda, highlighting the critical role assessors play in shaping the integrity and consistency of match officiation.
Haiya added that the training seminar was essential in equipping assessors with updated knowledge of the game and reinforcing their responsibilities.
“This is a very important development for our football. Assessors play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and consistency of officiation. They are responsible for the growth and development of our referees, which directly influences the quality of officiating.
“We are ensuring that assessors are updated with the new rules of the game. These workshops will be held annually to help them renew their knowledge and adapt to changes in modern football.”
The Code of Conduct sets clear expectations and ethical standards for those overseeing match officials.
Haiya added, “With this Code of Conduct, we are emphasizing accountability, transparency, and integrity. It will guide assessors in carrying out their duties with professionalism, ultimately improving the overall quality of officiating and football in Malawi.”
Simon Pearson Juvinala, a participant from Lilongwe representing the Central Region, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a game-changer.
“This training is historic. It’s the first of its kind since we started working as assessors, and under the leadership of President Haiya, we are now speaking one language when it comes to officiating standards,” said Juvinala.
“In the past, we operated without clear guidance. Now, with this Code, we have a framework that will guide our day-to-day work and improve our collaboration with referees.”
Meanwhile, FAM has announced that a separate Code of Conduct for Referees will be launched next week, as part of its broader reforms to professionalize and harmonize football officiating in the country.
