Rather than a flashy signing, David Wako’s switch from Jinja Hippos to Heathens feels like a statement of intent — the kind that quietly reshapes a title contender. As uncertainty continues to cloud Hippos’ future, the Heathens have stepped in to secure a player whose value has been built over time, not hype.
Wako leaves Jinja as one of the club’s longest-serving figures, having grown from a youthful recruit in 2013 into a leader of both the pack and the dressing room. His rise through the ranks saw him break into the national 15s setup in 2017, lift a National 7s crown in 2022, and anchor the Hippos’ run to the 2025 league final.
Confirming his departure, Wako reflected on a journey defined by loyalty and resilience.
“I chose Heathens because I believe I have what it takes to contribute to us winning again. This is a huge club, with a great culture and for a man like me, who has achieved all I have so far, this was the natural next step. I wanted to be somewhere where I can contribute, and I believe I made the right choice,” Wako shared with the club media team.
His exit is part of a broader player drain at Hippos, with Yasin Waiswa already gone and more departures expected as internal wrangles persist. For players seeking stability and ambition, established clubs have become the natural refuge.
For Heathens, the attraction goes beyond Wako’s resume. Last season exposed a lack of punch in their forward play, with phases building neatly but rarely breaking the gain line. The arrival of Wako addresses that gap directly. He brings direct running, physical dominance and an ability to generate momentum in tight spaces — traits that can instantly change the tone of an attack.
Equally important is his versatility. Comfortable at number eight and capable of filling in at prop, Wako strengthens a position that had grown thin following the retirement of Michael Wokorach and the decline of Scott Oluoch, while younger options struggled to convince.
In a market dominated by movement driven by crisis, Heathens may have quietly secured one of the most meaningful additions of the window — a forward whose presence promises substance, balance and renewed edge.
