Uganda’s football landscape continues to buzz with high-profile transfer activity, and today, July 16, 2025, two clubs—Vipers SC and Lugazi FC—have energized fans with impactful signings and departures. Below is a comprehensive review of the latest confirmed moves, including player details, club ambitions, and reactions from the teams and players themselves.
Vipers SC: Strengthening the Defence and Midfield
Key Signings
Kevin Dasylva Bady (Defender):
Vipers SC have secured the signature of Congolese central defender Kevin Dasylva Bady on a three-year deal from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bady’s commanding presence and experience are expected to bolster Vipers’ backline as the club aims to maintain its dominance in the Uganda Premier League.
At 24, Bady brings an imposing style and invaluable continental experience, positioning him as a defensive “kingpin” for the Venoms.
Enock Ssebaggala (Midfielder):
Earlier this week, Vipers confirmed the arrival of Ugandan midfielder Enock Ssebaggala. Ssebaggala, known for his vision and work rate, is seen as a key addition to the squad’s creative options in midfield.
Other Noteworthy News
Patrick Mbowa (Contract Extension):
Reliable defender Patrick Mbowa has extended his stay at Vipers with a new two-year contract, reinforcing the club’s commitment to continuity at the back.
Watching Exits:
Long-serving midfielder Siraje Ssentamu is reportedly set to leave this window, marking a generational shift in the side’s core.
Club Statements & Reactions
Bady’s signing has been highlighted by Vipers as a strategic move to reinforce their defense, especially given ambitions for both domestic and continental competition. Club officials describe him as a “defensive kingpin,” while Bady himself has expressed excitement about joining a club with strong ambitions.
Lugazi FC: Ambition in Action with Double Swoop
Latest Additions
Paul Busolo (Striker):
Lugazi FC have confirmed striker Paul Busolo as their latest signing from Mbarara City on a two-year contract. In the previous campaign, Busolo netted three goals and provided four assists for Mbarara City — performances that helped the club avoid relegation.
Busolo is widely regarded for his pace, intelligence, and finishing, and he is expected to provide much-needed firepower to Lugazi’s attack.
Yusuf Mafabi (Defender):
Joining alongside Busolo is Yusuf Mafabi, a versatile 21-year-old defender also signed from Mbarara City on a two-year contract. Mafabi was instrumental in last season’s successful relegation fight, praised for his calmness under pressure and ability to play across the backline. Lugazi have lauded their new recruit for his “versatility and leadership potential.”
Mafabi himself expressed gratitude for the opportunity:
“This team has a great management, good technical team and above all, it gives opportunities to the young players to develop their talents. I will work hard to repay their trust and faith in me.”
Background and Potential Impact
Busolo’s roots include stints with the SC Villa Junior Team and Gombe High School, while Mafabi has played at Arua Hill and Buddo SS, marking both as young talents who fit the club’s vision for sustained growth. Their signings reflect Lugazi’s focus on bringing in youthful, energetic players determined to contribute to the club’s growing ambitions in the Uganda Premier League.
Conclusion
Today’s transfer developments underscore both Vipers SC’s status as a powerhouse intent on reinforcing an already stellar lineup, and Lugazi FC’s strategy of acquiring young talent with significant upside. With signings like Bady shoring up Vipers’ ambitions for glory and Lugazi’s acquisitions signaling intent to rise in Ugandan football, both clubs have given their fans every reason to be optimistic about the 2025/26 season ahead.