VAR to reduce human errors – Karia

DAR ES SALAAM: THE president of the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF), Wallace Karia in Dar es Salaam, yesterday stated that the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology is essential for addressing individual errors made by referees.

He made this statement during the opening of a five-day CAF VAR Academy Workshop, which gathered referees from the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) zone.

On his address, Karia highlighted that everyone involved in the implementation of VAR must be properly certified and have the knowledge to use the technology.

“To obtain the licence, the first requirement is training and that is exactly what we are doing here.

There is a licence needed for anyone who will participate in the project, and they must have the knowledge on how to use VAR,” Karia explained.

The training sessions have attracted officials from Tanzania and other East African countries, who will be equipped with the essential skills needed to operate and manage VAR systems during football matches.

“Those who complete this training will play a crucial role when we implement VAR in our league and regional competitions,” Karia noted, highlighting the importance of knowledge sharing and capacity building among the experts involved in VAR training.

While progress is underway, Karia urged Tanzanians to remain patient and trust the process as the nation adapts to this new technology.

“Let’s be patient; everything is proceeding as planned,” he reassured, acknowledging the excitement of fans eager to see VAR introduced in local leagues.

During the training few participants echoed the benefits they will acquire from the training.

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Olivia John from Tanzania described the sessions as highly beneficial, noting how they will improve decision-making during matches especially where controversies arise.

“The teachings in this seminar are of great benefit. We have gained knowledge on how to properly manage a match, from start to finish,” Olivia remarked.

Another participant, Hellen Ndun’gu, from Kenya shared similar sentiments, noting that the training will enhance her ability to officiate matches more effectively.

“I will be part of the process; I will coordinate matches better and put the knowledge I acquired at use during this fantastic workshop,” Ms Ndun’gu said.