Gor Mahia raid rivals AFC Leopards ,Tusker to land Harambee Stars defensive duo

Gor Mahia hits rivals AFC Leopards hard, to snatch their assistant captain defender Lewis Esambe Bandi.

They have also announced the signing of center-back Mike Kibwage, whose contract with Tusker FC had expired.

These transfers mark major boosts for Gor Mahia as they strengthen their squad in a bid to reclaim the top-flight title next season.                                       

Record FKF Premier League champions Gor Mahia have wasted no time in making waves this transfer window. In a bold and deliberate move, the club has secured the signatures of Harambee Stars defenders Michael Kibwage and Lewis Bandi, raiding local rivals Tusker and AFC Leopards respectively. The announcement was made with conviction and pride, with both players putting pen to paper on two-year deals as the club looks to re-establish dominance following a disappointing, trophyless season.

Kibwage, the towering centre-back and former vice-captain at Tusker FC, arrives with experience, leadership and international pedigree. A regular in the CHAN squad, he brings not only composure and strength to the backline but also the kind of tactical awareness that only comes from years of top-flight football. Gor Mahia’s fanbase received his unveiling with excitement, recognising that the club needed someone of his calibre to anchor their defence in a season that demands results.

| ANNOUNCEMENT

OFFICIAL: We announce the signing of Michael Kibwage on a two-year contract; Kibwage is from Tusker FC and currently in Harambee Stars’ CHAN squad.

Welcome to Mahia Kibwage. #Sirkal | #SportPesaNaGor pic.twitter.com/BXUCR9WvUy

— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) August 12, 2025

On the other side of the pitch, Lewis Bandi’s switch from AFC Leopards might just be the most talked-about transfer of the window. A fierce competitor and vice-captain at Ingwe, Bandi’s decision to join their arch-rivals is bound to ruffle feathers across the Nairobi football scene. Known for his pace, overlapping runs and defensive grit, the left-back’s presence will add width and energy to Gor Mahia’s play. The social media announcement of his arrival sparked immediate reactions, with hashtags flying and debates raging about loyalty, ambition and the thin line between rivals.

| ANNOUNCEMENT

We are pleased to announce the signing of Lewis Bandi on a two-year contract; defender Bandi is from AFC Leopards and currently in Harambee Stars’ CHAN squad.

Welcome to Mahia Lewis.#Sirkal | #SportPesaNaGor | – Courtesy pic.twitter.com/NO0m3qgoat

— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) August 12, 2025

These two signings are more than just reinforcements; they are statements of intent. Gor Mahia are not here to rebuild quietly. They are assembling a side ready to reclaim the crown and compete fiercely on the continental front. The message is clear: the green army is mobilising.

Interestingly, the double signing came on the same day both players were spotted with Gor Mahia deputy patron Eliud Owalo. While details of the meeting remain private, Owalo used the opportunity to applaud their efforts in national colours, thanking them for representing Kenya well at CHAN. His personal involvement only underlines the weight these transfers carry—not just for the club, but for Kenyan football as a whole.

The two defenders now join a growing list of fresh blood at the club. Bryne Omondi and Siraj Mohamed, also from the national setup, are believed to have signed on, although the official unveiling remains pending. Midfield dynamo Fidel Origa, poached from Bandari FC, adds further strength to the squad, as the technical bench begins to take shape under the new leadership of Ghanaian head coach Charles Akonnor.

| KENYA ONE

…and just in case they are not so sure, Byrne Omondi, the current Harambee Stars goalkeeper is a Mahia player. #Sirkal | #SportPesaNaGor pic.twitter.com/jdpl0C9F7e

— GOR MAHIA FC (@OfficialGMFC) August 12, 2025

Akonnor’s appointment at the start of August was the spark that ignited this strategic overhaul. After years of inconsistent continental displays and a domestic campaign that ended without silverware, the club turned to the former Ghana national team boss to restore their identity. Known for his tactical discipline and emphasis on structured play, Akonnor is expected to instil a new mentality within the squad—one that embraces both flair and grit.

Sources close to the club suggest the shopping spree isn’t over yet. Talks are ongoing with Bandari’s Swaleh Pamba, Posta Rangers striker Felix Oluoch, and Darajani Gogo sensation Veron Ombima. If successful, these additions could complete a revamped Gor Mahia squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

As fans gear up for the new season, one thing is certain—Gor Mahia are not waiting around. They are making bold moves, setting the tone, and raising expectations. And with every new signing, the anticipation only grows.

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