NAIROBI, Kenya – The streets of Nairobi are buzzing with “Kizza Mania.” In one of the most extravagant welcomes ever seen for a Ugandan player in Kenya, left-back Mustapha Kizza has officially joined Nairobi United in a move that has sent shockwaves through East African football.
The 26-year-old former CF Montreal and KCCA FC star arrived on Monday to a reception usually reserved for heads of state. From a luxury motorcade at the airport to a high-profile medical at Nairobi Hospital, the “Naibois” pulled out all the stops to signal their intent for 2026.
The “Royal” Itinerary
Kizza’s first 24 hours in Nairobi were a whirlwind of elite treatment:
The Entebbe departure: The news for his departure at Entebbe airport was first broken by a club official, Fred Arocho. The veteran journalist posted on his socials notifying the world that Kizza has left Uganda and will land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at noon (Monday).
The Arrival: Received by top club officials and driven in a luxury convoy to the club house.
The Medical: Cleared by top doctors at Nairobi Hospital under the supervision of the club’s new fitness guru, Kevin Kimani.
The Unveiling: A grand photo session and media interview at the iconic Kasarani Stadium, where he was handed the No. 21 jersey.
A Ugandan “Colony” in Kenya
Kizza doesn’t just join a new club; he joins a growing brotherhood of Ugandans dominating the KPL. He joins a star-studded list of compatriots including:
James Ssetuba & Samuel Ssenyonjo (AFC Leopards), Yafeesi Kalemba Mubiru (KCB FC), William Wadiri (Bandari FC), Bronson Nsubuga (Shabana FC) among others.
The Ultimate Debut? Nairobi United vs. AFC Leopards
In a twist of fate, Kizza’s first major test could come against some very familiar faces. Nairobi United is scheduled to face AFC Leopards in their next league outing.
This sets the stage for a mouth-watering “Ugandan Derby” on Kenyan soil, pitting Kizza against Ssetuba and Ssenyonjo. After Kizza’s masterclass against Nairobi United in the CAF Confederation Cup while at NEC FC, the Kenyan fans are desperate to see if he can replicate that magic in the yellow and black of the Naibois.
The Governor Johnson Sakaja-backed side has secured a two-year deal for the roving left-back, hoping his international experience will be the final piece of their championship puzzle.
Nairobi United are taking part in the CAF Confederation Cup and are set to play Azam FC in the second round of the Group stage.
Wow, this is absolutely incredible! It’s fantastic to see such a warm welcome for Mustapha – truly deserving of the ‘King’s Welcome’!