Nairobi, Kenya – June 2025 – The Boxing Federation of Kenya (BFK) is bursting with pride following the outstanding achievement of two of its elite officials, Nelson Otieno and Samuel Obiero. The duo has successfully attained the coveted IBA Star 3 Referee & Judge certification, marking a significant milestone for Kenyan boxing officiating.
Otieno and Obiero underwent the rigorous IBA Star 3 certification course held in Conakry, Guinea, during the Africa Youth Boxing Championship in May 2025. Demonstrating exceptional skill, knowledge, and composure, they excelled in a highly competitive field of 35 participants from across the continent. Remarkably, they secured two of only seven available slots, placing them among Africa’s top-tier international boxing officials.
“This is a tremendous accomplishment for Nelson and Samuel, and indeed for Kenyan boxing,” declared BFK President, Mr. Antony Otieno Ombok, widely known as Jamal. “Competing against top officials from across Africa and securing these prestigious certifications speaks volumes about their dedication, expertise, and the quality of our officiating programs. On behalf of the entire Boxing Federation of Kenya, I extend our warmest congratulations. We are immensely proud and wish them all the very best as they embark on officiating at the very highest levels of our sport.”
The IBA Star 3 certification is the pinnacle of achievement for boxing referees and judges. This qualification now officially empowers Nelson Otieno and Samuel Obiero to officiate at the most prestigious boxing championships globally. Their credentials now open the door to assignments at the:
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Olympic Games
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IBA World Championships
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Commonwealth Games
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African Boxing Championships
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All Africa Games
This achievement not only reflects the individual excellence of Otieno and Obiero but also signifies a major step forward for Kenyan boxing. Having officials certified to handle the pinnacle events ensures Kenyan boxers are represented by world-class arbiters on the global stage and enhances the nation’s standing within the international boxing community.
The BFK views this success as a testament to its commitment to developing all aspects of the sport, including officiating. The Federation looks forward to seeing Nelson Otieno and Samuel Obiero represent Kenya with distinction on the world’s biggest boxing platforms in the years to come. Their journey from Conakry to potential Olympic rings is an inspiration to aspiring referees, judges, and boxers nationwide.
