YEAR IN REVIEW: Kasumba finds Kenyan women beautiful, but is he taken?

Over time, a large number of foreign players cross the border to join the Kenyan Premier League.

While many just make up the numbers, a few have stood out, launching meticulous careers with various local clubs.

From Dan Sserunkuma, Allan Kateregga, Geoffrey ‘Baba’ Kizito, Khalid Aucho…few have made their mark, while for others, it has been a rough ride.

However, when the clock is rolled back on year 2017, Ugandan and Sofapaka talisman Umaru Kasumba take the plaudits.

The soft spoken attacker not only took the league by storm but also engraved his name in the hearts of many footballer lovers, moreso with his revelation that he is open to acquiring Kenyan citizen if it would mean donning the Harambee Stars colours.

Be as it may, many factors drive these players to seek opportunities in the KPL, chief among them, the desire to eke a living and seek a platform through which to launch their careers.

For instance, in 2010, Bob Mugalia, a Dr Congo national, while plying his trade for Sofapaka, ditched Congolese citizenship for a Kenyan passport after being convinced by the then Harambee Stars head coach Jacob ‘Ghost’ Mulee.

Mugalia went on to make over 15 appearances for the national side and also played for Tusker.

And in a bid to recap the year and get insights into the life and time of the exciting Kasumba, Citizen Digital reporter John Mbati caught up with the Sofapaka ace. He opens up about his goals and aspirations while also spilling the beans on his personal life.

CD: Tell us about yourself. Who is Umaru Kasumba?

Umaru: Umaru is a Ugandan striker playing in Kenya. I was born and bred in Uganda and I love football. I am also a soft spoken person and hardworking man.

CD: So what brought you to Kenya?

Umaru: I came here to work. The desire to play quality football was enormous. The competition here is intense, the game is lovely and the facilities are quite good.

CD: On the same vein, how do you find life in Kenya, and at your club Sofapaka?

Umaru: I love Kenya. The people here are fantastic and the fans love football more than the Ugandan. I love ‘Batoto ba Mungu’. I was welcomed warmly and I look forward to more success.

CD: What do you love about Kenya?

Umaru: I love the food; ugali, nyama (beef) and maharagwe (beans). I do not have a specific eating joint, everywhere I go, I enjoy myself.

CD: What’s your take on footballers being described as lavish and fun loving?  Do you lead a lavish lifestyle?

Umaru: Yes, its true most footballers enjoy luxury but you know some things have dire consequences. For me, I don’t! I don’t drink alcohol too! I also don’t hang out at night clubs as my focus is solely on my game.

CD: Are you dating? If so, is the lady Kenyan?

Umaru: I am in a relationship with a Ugandan lady. However, I find Kenyan women beautiful but I love my lady. I do not want to put her in the limelight because I’m a private person.

CD: How close are you with your God?

Umaru: Very close. I am a strict Muslim. Where I stay with my teammates (Pangani) there is a mosque close by where I go for prayers. I love my religion from the bottom of my heart.

CD: You were on record about changing citizenship? Will you take the chance when opportunity presents itself?

Umaru: I’ve only played for the youth teams in Uganda, meaning that I am still capable of changing citizenship and playing for any national side. But for now I do not want to talk about it. We shall discuss it later. I have a lot to consider.

CD: Why did you think about it in the first place?

Umaru: Kenya is a good country and when I am here, I feel like I’m at home. I love the environment but for now nothing is certain.

CD: What has been a secret to your success in your debut KPL season?

Umaru: My secret has been hard work. I wanted to win the Golden Boot but I lost it.

CD: What are the challenges you have faced so far?

Umaru: None so far, maybe playing against rough tackling defenders, but it is a football life. It won’t hinder me from winning trophies here.

CD: You’ve been scouted by some clubs who claim you are on their radar. Can we expect you to make a move anytime soon?

Umaru: I don’t want to talk about transfers as I am still acclimatizing to the surroundings.