Uganda Cranes’ Kenneth Semakula completes move to Saudi Arabia club

Uganda Cranes versatile midfielder Kenneth Semakula has officially joined Saudi Arabian second-tier side Al Adalah Club on a two-year contract, marking the latest step in his rapidly growing career.

He makes the switch from Kuwait’s Al Arabi SC, where he had only signed in July this year after leaving Tunisian giants Club Africain.

Semakula has already made his presence felt in Saudi Arabia. He featured for 84 minutes as Al Adalah faced Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al Hilal in the King’s Cup Round of 32, a clash they narrowly lost 1-0.

Days earlier, he made his league debut in a 3-1 defeat to Dirayah Club, marking the start of his journey with his new side.

Al Adalah, based in Al-Hasa, are determined to secure promotion back to the Saudi topflight after narrowly missing out last season, falling to Al Hazem in the playoff final.

He becomes third CECAFA region player in the Saudi second tier

Semakula’s versatility and composure in midfield are expected to be a key asset as the club seeks to bounce back.

The Uganda Cranes man becomes the third CECAFA region player in the Saudi second tier this season, joining Burundi striker Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana (Jeddah Club) and Kenyan midfielder Eric Johana Omondi (Al Zulfi). Jeddah Club, notably, is currently coached by former Vipers SC Brazilian tactician Robertinho.

Last season, fellow Ugandan international Halid Lwaliwa plied his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al Ain before the club suffered relegation late in the campaign.

A product of Uganda’s youth structures, Semakula has steadily risen through the ranks from the Uganda Hippos (U20) to the senior national team.

The former SC Villa captain made his Cranes debut in 2022 and has since gone on to accumulate 29 international caps, becoming a dependable figure in coach Paul Put’s setup.