Just days ago, on March 30, 2025, he officiated the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby, the iconic clash between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia.
Kenyan referee Dickens Mimisa has been selected to officiate at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) U20 tournament in Egypt, marking another milestone in his growing reputation as one of the country's top referees. His name is not new to Kenyan football fraternity,Mimisa has been quietly building his legacy for some time.
Just days ago, on March 30, 2025, he officiated the highly anticipated Mashemeji Derby, the iconic clash between AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia. His performance on that day earned widespread praise, with fans and pundits alike applauding his ability to maintain control in an intense atmosphere. Despite the fierce rivalries and high stake drama of the match, Mimisa’s composure ensured the game remained fair and orderly.Although the match ended in a 0-0 draw, it was packed with intensity, featuring hard tackles and near-misses. Yet through it all, Mimisa stood firm, calm and collected.
For those familiar with the atmosphere of the Mashemeji Derby, such praises speaks volume. But there’s more to Mimisa than his ability to manage chaos on the field. Away from football, he is a civil engineer, holding a degree from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). Specializing in structural and highways engineering, Mimisa plays a key role in designing and building the infrastructure that supports daily life in Kenya. Balancing such a demanding profession with refereeing shows an extraordinary level of discipline and dedication he has.
Mimisa’s path to officiating at the AFCON U20 is no accident. As a FIFA-accredited referee, he has already made his mark internationally, officiating in numerous international matches and proving his ability to handle pressure and make crucial decisions under intense scrutiny. He has also been selected among kenyan refrees that will officiate in the upcoming CHAN competitions alongside Peter Waweru and Samuel Kuria.
Dickens Mimisa is more than just a referee; he’s a symbol of dedication and hard work. With a heart for the game and a mind for precision, he will definitely make a mark at AFCON U20, continuing to show Africa and the world what Kenyan referees are capable of.