• FOOTBALL

• Frank Rotich 2 months ago

‎‎‎KCB win race to sign Harambee Stars forward Sakwa

KCB have won the race to sign Harambee Stars forward David Sakwa, beating off strong competition from Shabana and other top-flight clubs.

The 21-year-old striker has joined the Bankers after leaving Bandari, where he has been since January 2024. Sakwa became a free agent after running down his contract with the coastal side, making him one of the most sought-after players in the current transfer window.

A number of clubs in the Sportpesa League showed interest in the young forward, with Shabana pushing hard to land his signature.

Bandari also tried to keep him, but KCB head coach Robert Matano moved quickly to secure the deal as he rebuilds his squad for the second half of the season.

Sakwa’s journey to the top has been impressive. He started his career at Matunda Sports Club, helping the team earn three straight promotions to FKF Division One before it rebranded to Kiminini Combined.

His strong performances later earned him a move to Bandari, where he signed his first top-flight contract under then coach John Baraza.

Despite struggling with injuries at Bandari, Sakwa’s talent did not go unnoticed. In March 2024, he received his first Harambee Stars call-up, narrowly missing out on the final squad. His big breakthrough came in June 2025 when he made the national team and scored off the bench in Kenya’s 2-1 win over Chad.

Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy continued to show faith in him, handing Sakwa his full international debut at the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN). He impressed in a 1-0 win over DR Congo, providing an assist and playing 79 minutes.

However, injuries have slowed his progress at club level this season. A recurring groin problem has limited his game time, but the forward remains confident.

“This season has not been easy for me,” Sakwa said recently. “I started with injuries, but I am working hard to come back stronger. I want to score goals and help my team achieve its targets.”

With a fresh start at KCB, Sakwa will be hoping to put his injury troubles behind him and make a strong impact, both for his new club and the national team.