Mutsami joins Menengai Oilers as Weru eyes revival

Former Kenya Simbas utility back Paul Mutsami has joined Menengai Oilers from Ugandan Premiership side Victoria Sharks ahead of the 2026/27 Kenya Cup season.

The former Impala centre had been widely tipped to join reigning Kenya Cup champions Kabras Sugar, but the move failed to materialise, paving the way for the Nakuru-based club to secure his signature.

Mutsami moved to Uganda last year after leaving Kenya Harlequin and enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign with Victoria Sharks, helping the side reach the Uganda Premiership quarter-finals before Heathens Rugby Club knocked them out.

The versatile back, who began his career as a back-row forward before switching to the backline during his time at Impala, represented the Kenya Simbas in the 2023 Victoria Cup in Uganda and was also part of the squad that reclaimed the Elgon Cup.

At Oilers, he bolsters an already competitive midfield that includes Philip Okeyo, John Okoth, Brian Achacha and Samuel Ovwamu. Oilers head coach Gibson Weru said Mutsami’s arrival is among the first steps in rebuilding the squad after a disappointing 2025/26 Kenya Cup campaign, which ended in a quarter-final defeat to Nondescripts.

“He brings a wealth of experience to the Oilers and will be a key signing for our backline. He is an aggressive ball carrier who breaks opposition defences with his runs and game intelligence. I believe he will be a great asset to the club heading into the new season, which starts in November,” said Weru.

Weru added that the club is conducting an internal review to identify the shortcomings of last season before pre-season training begins next month.

“There are tactical and technical areas we have to address and improve. We also need to build greater squad depth to ensure we can compete consistently with teams like Kabras and KCB.”

Meanwhile, organisers have announced that the 43rd edition of the Impala Floodlit Tournament will be held from October 17 to 31.

Defending champions Menengai Oilers will be aiming to retain the title they won last year after defeating Nondescripts 32-20 in an entertaining final.

Expected participants include hosts Impala, Kenya Harlequin, Mwamba, Nondescripts, Nakuru RFC, Strathmore Leos and Black Blad Rugby Club.