Kitara FC have confirmed the signing of left back Jackson Ssembatya, who has put pen to paper on a two year contract with the club.
He arrives from NEC after both parties agreed to part ways, with the defender managing just three league appearances for the club during the 2025/26 season.
Speaking to club media about the move, Ssembatya said joining Kitara felt like the right step for his career.
“Joining Kitara was the best decision for me because I saw a chance to grow as a player and learn from one of the best players, Murushid Jjuuko. I’ve watched him for some time now, and I’m excited that we will be playing on the same team. I hope it turns out to be a great experience for me.”
He added that the club’s recent progress played a big part in his decision.“I also like the direction the club is taking and what they have achieved recently. I believe it’s the right place for me to be.”
Ssembatya’s football journey started at Divine Soccer Academy before he moved on to Kibuli Secondary School, where he helped the school lift the 2022 East Africa Secondary Schools Football Championship title in Arusha, Tanzania. From there, he joined Edgars Youth program before switching to Kampala regional league side Kisugu United FC.
His development continued in the Masaza ga Buganda competition, where he turned out for Ssingo.
At Kitara, he will be competing directly with captain Jasper Baguma Aheebwa for the starting left back role. Aheebwa was an ever present for the Royals last season, but Ssembatya’s arrival should give the side welcome rotation options and fresh legs in that position.
Beyond adding depth, Ssembatya also brings versatility to the backline, with the ability to play at centre back as well.
Kitara conceded the fourth fewest goals across all competitions last season, and with the additions of experienced Ghanaian import Bonney Christopher and now the youthful Ssembatya, the club will be hoping to tighten things up even further at the back.
Player Profile:
Name: Ssembatya Jackson
Date of Birth: 7/7/2005
Nationality: Ugandan
Position: Center back, Left back
Height: 1.768 m
Foot: Left
Former teams: Divine Soccer Academy, Edgars Youth Program, Kibuli SS, Singo Ssaza, Kisugu United FC, NEC FC