Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have pulled off a major transfer coup in the ongoing transfer window, securing the signature of highly-rated winger Usama Arafat Kiza on a two-year deal, Footy-Africa can exclusively confirm.
The 21-year-old Ugandan international, set to be unveiled by the reigning seven-time champions on a free transfer after running down his contract with KCCA FC, has been one of the most talked-about moves of the current window.
Sources close to his representatives, Prosper Sports Agency, has told Footy-Africa that Arafat was a top target for South African Premier Division clubs TS Galaxy and Durban City, while Tunisian heavyweights CS Sfaxien had also been in the race. But Vipers’ sporting project and the lure of continental football in Kitende ultimately swayed the winger’s decision.
“This is the kind of move Usama wanted, one that challenges him but also gives him a platform to lead. We had interest from top clubs outside Uganda, but Vipers showed ambition, professionalism, and a clear plan for his growth. For Usama, this was about more than money, it was about building a legacy at home,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa.
CHAN fever! 🇺🇬 pic.twitter.com/1QS8Mv0QVo
— Usama Arafatkiza (@usama_arafat10) June 27, 2025
Arafat arrives with a reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in East African football. Last season, he scored seven goals and registered six assists in 23 appearances, following a breakout 2023/24 campaign where he managed 10 goals and six assists in 26 games across league and CAF competition.
His leadership qualities are well-documented, having captained Uganda’s U20 side to a historic silver medal at the 2024 All-Africa Games before earning a senior national team call-up. The left-footed winger now boasts 11 competitive caps for the Cranes and was part of the squad that reached the CHAN 2025 quarterfinals.
At St. Mary’s Stadium Kitende, the silky winger joins a growing list of marquee arrivals, including Mark Yallah, Kevin Dasylva Bady, and Enock Ssebaggala, as Vipers arm themselves for another push for domestic dominance and CAF glory.
