When Kitara unveiled their new signings in December, it felt like more than a routine transfer event.
It signaled ambition. Now, with the Royals sitting second in the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League, Shaban’s early confidence is starting to look well placed.
“First of all, whenever I start something, I always thank the Almighty God,” Shaban said after being presented by club CEO Joshua Atugonza.
“He is the reason why we are alive. He always has to be praised. By name, I’m called Muhammad Shaban.”
It was a simple introduction from a striker whose arrival has fueled title belief in Hoima.
“I’m very happy to be in this club. Kitara is a very big club, and I’m happy to be part of their journey,” he added.
“We are going to work with my teammates to make sure this season we do something that brings smiles to the fans.”
Under head coach Wasswa Bbosa who won the trophy with Express FC in 2920/21, Kitara have collected 36 points from 17 matches, just two behind leaders Vipers SC.
Ten wins, four draws and three defeats reflect a side built on defensive discipline and narrow, hard-earned victories. Four straight wins across December and January pushed them firmly into the title race.
“With my agent Santos, everything is possible. Kitara is a big club,” he said. “Any player would want to play for this team. Right now, Kitara are competing for the league.”
The results support that claim. A 1–1 draw with URA kept them within reach of the summit, while 1–0 wins over Maroons, Calvary and Express showed their growing maturity in tight games.
“As a striker, my job is to score goals,” he said.
“Bringing me here means the club trusts me. I have to do what they expect, score. I will do my best and leave the rest to God.”
His move from Kampala to Hoima surprised some. He saw it differently.
“Coming out of your comfort zone is the best thing,” Shaban said. “Kitara is a nice town with great fans. I feel at home.”
That comfort is strengthened by familiar faces. Reuniting with players like Living Kabon, Wahab and Emma has boosted chemistry in attack.
“Football is about connection,” he said. “They understand my style. When we are together, anything is possible.”
Anything even silverware. An April 10 clash away to Vipers could shape the title race. But when asked about rivals such as KCCA and Vipers, Shaban stayed focused.
“I can’t talk about KCCA and Vipers right now,” he said. “I’m with Kitara. I only need to concentrate on Kitara. I’m sorry.”
