Ruth Aturo joins Simba Queens on birthday, ending Kampala Queens speculation

Crested Cranes goalkeeper Ruth Aturo has completed a move to Tanzanian heavyweights Simba Queens, officially sealing the deal on her 30th birthday.

Aturo joins from Tausi FC, where her commanding presence and experience between the posts helped the side earn promotion to the Tanzanian top flight, keeping an impressive six clean sheets along the way.

Her transfer brings to an end recent speculation linking her with a short-term move to Kampala Queens, who had hoped to sign her specifically for the CAF Women’s Champions League zonal qualifiers.

Simba Queens, who narrowly missed out on the 2024/25 Tanzanian Women’s Premier League title to rivals JKT, will not feature in this year’s continental qualifiers. However, they are undergoing a major squad overhaul, having already parted ways with 11 players — including Ugandan midfielder Ritticia Nabbosa — to pave way for fresh additions.

Aturo, a former FUFA Female Player of the Year (2018), brings a wealth of experience and leadership to her new side. She has lifted the Uganda Women’s Super League title four times and also won a Women’s Cup title during her domestic dominance.

A proud daughter of Soroti, Aturo has not only captained the Crested Cranes but also helped Uganda win the CECAFA Women’s Championship, earning several individual accolades throughout her career.

Her football journey has seen her play for notable clubs across East Africa and beyond, including Kawempe Muslim, UCU Lady Cardinals, Vihiga Queens (Kenya), Kotkan (Finland), and Saudi Arabian sides Al Taqadom and Al Shabab. With her latest move to Simba Queens, Aturo adds another milestone to her distinguished career.