ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA – Ugandan football continues to make its mark across East Africa, and the latest success story is emerging from the Ethiopian Premier League (EPL).
Goalkeeper Emmanuel Kalyowa, formerly of Express FC, BUL FC (Uganda), and Sofapaka (Kenya), has hit the ground running at his new club, Sidama Bunna, achieving an astounding three clean sheets in his first four league matches.
A Competitive Leap and Fan Power
Kalyowa, who joined Bunna two months ago, has quickly assessed his new environment, noting the high stakes and electric atmosphere of the EPL.
“The Ethiopia league is quite competitive and fans support their teams to the bone,” Kalyowa stated. “You have to be at your absolute best every match.”
This intense environment appears to be fuel for Kalyowa, who is thriving under pressure.
Quote on Competition: “The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning. That level of competition here drives you to improve every single day.”
Kalyowa’s Perfect Start
Kalyowa’s immediate impact has been phenomenal. He made his official debut in the Ethiopia FA Cup preliminary round where Sidama Bunna won on penalties, with Kalyowa emerging as the hero by saving two spot-kicks.
His league form has been equally impressive, contributing to three shutouts in four games: A 0-0 draw against Mekelle 70, a 2-1 win over Mechal FC, a 1-0 win over Ethiopia Bank FC and a 0-0 draw against Dire Dawa FC.
Quote on Teamwork:
“In football, it takes many to score one, but one person can save many. I am constantly reminded that I save with the spirit of the entire team behind me.”
Missing Matooke and Nalubaale Fish
While Kalyowa is excelling on the pitch, he offered a relatable glimpse into the challenges of life abroad. He confirmed he is finding it not hard to settle in to the new environment, thanks in part to a good dressing room where most players communicate in English, bridging the gap with locals who speak Amharic.
However, the toughest adjustment remains the food. Having grown up in Jinja, near the Source of the Nile and Lake Nalubaale (Victoria), Kalyowa admits he is a big fan of fresh fish but is finding it hard to fully adopt the Ethiopian cuisine.
“I miss matooke and the fresh fish from Lake Nalubaale,” he confessed, reminding his Ugandan fans that no matter the success abroad, a piece of home always stays with the heart.
