Ugandan football’s footprint in South Africa continues to widen, and goalkeeper Ali Mwirusi Ramathan is the latest name to follow that increasingly familiar path.
Barely days after forward Joel Madondo completed his switch to top-flight Richards Bay, Mwirusi has secured a move to Midlands Wanderers FC, a club competing in South Africa’s second tier.
The former Express FC shot stopper wasted no time making an impression. On Wednesday evening in Pietermaritzburg, Mwirusi was handed his debut and rose to the occasion, producing a composed performance to earn a clean sheet as Midlands Wanderers battled Casric Stars to a 0–0 draw.
Mwirusi departed Uganda midway through the season after featuring in the opening half of the Uganda Premier League campaign.
His new challenge lies in the National First Division, officially known as the Motsepe Foundation Championship, a demanding 16-team competition sitting just below South Africa’s Premiership.
Midlands Wanderers are currently navigating a tough spell, placed 14th on the table with 13 points from 15 matches, and the arrival of the Ugandan goalkeeper is seen as a key boost as they fight to climb away from danger.
The move reflects a career shaped by patience and gradual growth. Mwirusi first announced himself on the national stage during the National Schools Championships, turning out for Kibuli SS, Amus College and St Mary’s Kitende.
His promise earned him a place at KCCA FC, before he explored opportunities abroad.
That journey saw him gain experience in Europe, featuring in lower divisions in Spain with Villajoyosa CF and in England with Squire Gates FC.
Along the way, he also attracted interest through trials at Wigan Athletic in England and FC Vaulx-en-Velin in France.
By opting for South Africa, Mwirusi joins a respected fraternity of Ugandan goalkeepers who have tested themselves there, following in the footsteps of Denis Onyango, Jamal Salim Magoola and Isma Watenga. For the young custodian, the move represents both a fresh challenge and another important step in a steadily rising career.
