By Nabakiibi Doreen Malaika
In Ugandan volleyball, few figures embody resilience, versatility, and service to the game as much as Jethro Kasaigi. Well known to the public as a journalist with the National Broadcaster UBC, Kasaigi has also built an equally outstanding career in volleyball. From his early days as a libero on the court, to his steady rise as a respected national referee, and now his appointment as Head of Referees, his journey reflects both passion for sport and dedication to professionalism.
Early Volleyball Journey
Kasaigi’s involvement with volleyball began during his secondary school years, where his defensive skills quickly stood out. His commitment and talent carried him into club-level competition, where he joined Destiny Volleyball Club (DVC), a Mukono-based team. Playing primarily as a libero, he became known for his ability to read the game, organize the backline, and dig hard-driven balls that often turned defense into attack.
Transition to Refereeing
The defining moment came in 2016 when he attended his first Level One Refresher Course. The training exposed him to the intricacies of officiating, and after earning certification, he realized how refereeing could expand his role in the sport. Encouraged by senior referees, he embraced the challenge. Although his official refereeing career took off in 2016, Kasaigi had already been engaging in officiating activities between 2014 and 2015.
Building Confidence and Experience
Over the years, Kasaigi has handled numerous high-profile matches in the National League and has consistently sought opportunities to improve. He has attended several Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF) and CAVB training courses, each of which expanded his technical grasp of the game. He credits the recent CAVB course supervised by Mr. Waleed, an FIVB Instructor, as a turning point in his officiating career.
Appointment as Head of Referees
The Uganda Volleyball Federation’s decision to appoint Kasaigi as Head of Referees marks both recognition of his service and confidence in his leadership. For him, it is not just a title but a responsibility. After nearly a decade in refereeing, he believes he is ready to lead colleagues he has grown alongside.
Responsibilities
- Recruitment and selection of referees across competitions
- Training and development, ensuring officials keep up with international standards
- Promoting professionalism and integrity in all matches
- Administrative leadership, including coordination of officiating structures
- Dispute resolution and discipline, maintaining fairness and accountability
Strategies to Strengthen Refereeing Body
- Regular Refresher Courses: Holding quarterly or biannual training clinics to update referees on the latest FIVB rules and officiating techniques.
- Certification & Upgrading Pathways: Establishing structured opportunities for referees to progress from local to national to international certification.
- Mentorship Programs: Pairing junior referees with seasoned officials to ensure skill transfer and practical learning.
Challenges and Opportunities
Refereeing in Uganda has made great strides, and in many respects, officiation standards are ahead of neighboring East African countries. However, challenges persist. Among the most pressing are poor remuneration and abuse from players and coaches who may not appreciate the referees’ role in maintaining fairness.
The Future of Ugandan Volleyball
The future of Ugandan volleyball looks bright, with many young athletes showing promise both locally and abroad. Rwanda has already become a popular destination for Ugandan players seeking professional opportunities, and Kasaigi expects this trend to grow. He is equally hopeful about officiating, predicting that in the coming years Uganda will produce more referees of international caliber who will represent the country at top tournaments.
Advice for Upcoming Referees
Kasaigi has a clear message for the next generation of referees: “I urge the upcoming referees to stay focused and also to keep practicing but more so love what they do as they keep reading to master the rules of the game of course not forgetting patience and consulting from their seniors.” This piece of advice, he stresses, is what helped him rise in his own journey — patience, love for the game, and continuous learning.
