Exclusive: Steven Mukwala speaks about life at Tanzanian giants Simba SC and the CAF Confederation Cup
- Ronald Lusulire
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Uganda national team and Simba SC striker Steven Mukwala continues to build up a strong reputation as a top goal poacher in African club football. On Saturday, the former URA FC and Asante Kotoko star will be on the biggest stage in his career when Tanzanian titans Simba take on Morocco's RS Berkane in the first leg from the final of the CAF Confederation Cup. The return leg back home will be on May 25.
Pan-Africa Football's Ronald Lusulire caught up with Steven Mukwala to discuss the upcoming Confederation Cup final as well as how he is adapting to life in Tanzania both on and off the pitch.
Ronald Lusulire: Steven, take us back to when you first joined Simba SC—what were your initial emotions walking into such a historic club?
Steven Mukwala: It was a great feeling signing for Simba SC. It's the 4th ranked Club in Africa and that says it all of how big a club it is.
RL: The Msimbazi faithful are known for their passion—how did they receive you when you arrived, and how has that bond grown over the season?
Mukwala: Upon joining, I got such an immense appreciation from the majority of the fans. But of course it's such a huge club with big expectations. Gradually, my numbers have shown that they weren't wrong. I have delivered, and the player and fan bond has become even stronger.
RL: Adapting to a new country can be tough, but you seemed to do it seamlessly. What made your transition to Tanzanian football and life off the pitch smooth?
Mukwala: Tanzania is within East Africa. It's actually like a home away from home. And life off the pitch is in a way tricky. Simba and Yanga (Young Africans) players are so valued that you can't be moving out just like any ordinary person. Off the pitch, I am always home resting.
RL: You’ve hit double digits in goals this season. What clicked for you in front of goal, and how proud are you of that milestone?
Mukwala: Hitting double figures this season means I have done it the 6th time in my 7 seasons in top flight football. I can't be more proud. It is yet a great achievement.
RL: Making it to the CAF Confederation Cup final is a historic feat. What was it like being part of such a run, and how do you reflect on your contribution?
Mukwala: Playing in the continent's top competitions is a dream for every player. And to me, being in the Confederation Cup final is a dream come true. And I thank God that I had a big contribution.
RL: Tell us about daily life—how different is the Tanzanian food from back home? Are you getting used to the weather and the local culture?
Mukwala: The food in Tanzania is similar to what we eat in Uganda on a daily basis. Same with the weather. And slight difference in culture which I adapted very fast.
RL: Swahili can be tricky—how are you coping with the language and have your teammates helped?
Mukwala: I understand a little bit of Swahili and my teammates have played a profound role in helping me adapt to the environment. They try to teach me more of the language.
RL: Uganda national team all-time leading scorer Emmanuel Okwi left big boots to fill—do fans or the media often relate your story to his? How do you feel about being compared to him?
Mukwala: Okwi had a very big impact here at Simba and of course, I look up to him. He inspired me a lot throughout his years in the national team. The comparisons are healthy and I am very okay with it.
RL: Looking ahead, what goals are you setting for yourself next season, both personally and for Simba as a team?
Mukwala: My goals for next season are to score more goals than I have done this season and to win all the available honors with Simba SC.
