Kasarani, Kenya – July 29, 2025 — Kenya’s national football team, Harambee Stars, has suffered a major setback just days before the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off. Midfield maestro Mohamed Bajaber has left the national team camp after completing a high-profile move to Simba SC, one of East Africa’s football powerhouses.
Bajaber Signs Two-Year Deal with Simba Sports Club
In a press release issued on Monday, the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) confirmed that Bajaber has signed a two-year contract with Simba SC, a top-tier Tanzanian Premier League club. Simba is widely regarded as one of the strongest football teams on the continent.
“Bajaber’s move is a significant opportunity for his career, and we wish him all the best at Simba,” FKF stated.
The 23-year-old midfielder is expected to join Simba SC’s squad for their pre-season tour in Egypt, immediately stepping into preparations for the upcoming season.
Read more on player transfers at Sauce.co.ke/sports
Third Exit from Kenya’s CHAN Squad in July
Bajaber is the third Harambee Stars player to exit the CHAN 2024 training camp this month. His departure follows that of Emmanuel Osoro and Moses Shummah, who both signed contracts with Zambian Premier League clubs earlier in July.
These exits have prompted growing concerns among fans and pundits over squad depth and tactical stability, especially with Kenya’s CHAN opener against two-time champions DR Congo set for Saturday, August 3, at Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani.
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Fans React: Career Boost or National Betrayal?
News of Bajaber’s transfer triggered mixed reactions online. While some fans congratulated him for joining a prestigious African club, others criticized the timing, saying it undermines the country’s performance at a crucial tournament.
“Happy for Bajaber, but he could have waited till after CHAN. Kenya needs him more right now,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter).
What Bajaber’s Exit Means for Coach Benni McCarthy
With just five days to go before facing DR Congo, head coach Benni McCarthy now has the task of reworking his midfield strategy without Bajaber — a key creative asset in Kenya’s setup.
Despite the triple loss, FKF remains optimistic, encouraging fans to show up in numbers and support the team.
“This is a chance for other players to step up. We’re confident in our squad depth,” said a federation spokesperson.
CHAN 2024: Kenya’s Key Test Before AFCON 2027
Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are co-hosting the 2024 edition of CHAN as a rehearsal for AFCON 2027. Kenya will face DR Congo, South Sudan, and Rwanda in the group stage.
For tournament updates, visit the official CAF website or follow matchday coverage on BBC Sport Africa.
