Kampala, Uganda: Any Ugandan soccer fan who watched Uganda’s 3-0 win over Guinea on Friday at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), testifies that KCCA’s new recruit Ivan Ahimbisibwe, popularly known as “The Hunter,” already established himself a household name in the country’s football.
The striker’s explosive performance on what was his debut turned heads, marking him out as a key player for the Uganda Cranes as they push for glory.
Ahimbisibwe notched the third goal of the night, a beauty as he zeroed down his marker, and keeper Ousmane Camara to slot in an empty net just minutes shy of the final whistle.
His goal, characterized by calmness under pressure and precise finishing, earned him the CAF Goal of the Day award, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer.
But who is Ivan Ahimbisibwe, Uganda’s New Striking Hope at CHAN 2024
Born on November 23, 1995, in Mbarara, southwestern Uganda, Ahimbisibwe’s journey to the national spotlight has been one of hard work, resilience, and steady rise through Uganda’s football ranks. Standing at 1.86 meters, his physical presence and clinical finishing have made him a formidable centre-forward.
Ahimbisibwe began his football career with Synergy FC, a club competing in Uganda’s lower divisions, where his goal-scoring prowess quickly drew attention.
He then moved to Nyamityobora FC, further honing his skills before making a significant leap to UPDF FC, the army side competing in the top-tier Uganda Premier League. It was here that Ahimbisibwe’s talents caught the eye of top clubs and national team scouts.
In 2023, Ahimbisibwe secured a move to URA FC, one of Uganda’s premier football clubs. His impact was immediate.
During the 2024/25 Uganda Premier League season, he scored 16 goals for URA FC, finishing just three shy of the league’s Golden Boot winner Allan Okello.
July 2025 marked a new chapter as Ahimbisibwe signed a two-year contract with Kampala Capital City Authority FC (KCCA FC), a club with a rich history and continental ambitions. The transfer reunited him with coach Brian Ssenyondo, who previously coached him at Synergy and UPDF FC.
Ahimbisibwe’s rise to the occasion
Ahimbisibwe’s rise coincided with his national team breakthrough. He earned his first Uganda Cranes call-up ahead of CHAN 2024, a tournament reserved for players competing in their country’s domestic leagues, and wasted no time making an impact.
His journey is inspirational for many young Ugandan footballers dreaming of the national team. His progression from local league obscurity to starring on an international stage is a testament to talent combined with dedication and perseverance.
At 29, Ahimbisibwe is entering the prime of his career. With his recent move to KCCA FC, he is expected to continue his upward trajectory, competing for league titles, and possibly attracting attention from clubs abroad.
This move, football analysts say, is a step up and a chance for Ahimbisibwe to showcase his skills on bigger stages both locally and continentally. His teammates and coaches have praised his work ethic, tactical intelligence, and ability to perform in high-stakes games.
For Uganda, his presence in attack provides hope of sustained success in regional and continental competitions.
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