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Bandari FC signs 22-year-old defender Ali Said from Jomvu

Ali Said Ali with Bandari FC officials during the signing ceremony on February 7, 2024. (Photo: Bandari FC)

By Farhiya Hussein | Thursday, February 8, 2024

Ali becomes the first youth from Jomvu to play for the Kenya Premier League club.

The Bandari Football Club has signed 22-year-old Ali Said, a defender from Jomvu Sub-County.

Ali's stellar performance during the Badi Twalib Super Cup, where he led Gunners FC to victory, and his role as captain of the Jomvu FC select team facing Bandari FC in a recent friendly match, paved the way for the opportunity.

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Ali Said, a 22-year-old defender hailing from Ufuta, Miritini ward, Jomvu constituency, has etched his name in history by securing a contract with Bandari Football Club, thus becoming the first youth from Jomvu to play for Kenya Premier League club.

This milestone serves as a beacon of hope for the budding talents in Jomvu, underscoring the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment in the pursuit of one's aspirations.

Speaking during the signing ceremony on Wednesday, Bandari FC Vice-Chairman Twaha Mbarak said they are proud as a team to have such a talented youth joining the club.

“We have unveiled a new player today. We would like to thank Jomvu MP Badi Twalib for organising the friendly match we had because were it not for the match we would not have recognised this talent. We believe he is a huge contribution to our Bandari team,” said Twaha.

Motivation

He said the move will serve as a motivation to the local players.

“Ali will now have to show them anything is possible and it is through playing that he will give those at the grassroots levels hope,” added Twaha.

Ali Said Ali during the signing ceremony on February 7, 2024. (Photo: Bandari FC)

Ali thanked the Bandari FC and MP Badi for allowing him to explore his talents.

“I thank Bandari FC for giving me this opportunity to play and showcase my talent and I would also like to thank the Jomvu MP for coming up with the Jomvu FC team which we played with Bandari FC because that is where my talent was noticed,” he said.

Ali's ascent to this pinnacle was catalyzed by his exceptional performance during the Badi Twalib Super Cup, where he played an instrumental role in propelling Gunners FC to clinch victory.

Additionally, his leadership as the captain of the Jomvu FC select team in a friendly encounter against Bandari FC further cemented his credentials, catching the attention of talent scouts and paving the path for this remarkable opportunity.

The move heralds a new dawn for Jomvu, encapsulating the essence of resilience and triumph against the odds.

Ali's journey exemplifies the untapped potential within grassroots football, serving as a testament to the transformative impact of nurturing and harnessing local talent.

“This achievement inspires hope among talented youths in Jomvu, showing that hard work, commitment, and resilience can turn dreams into reality. Huge thanks to Bandari CEO Tony Kibwana and Vice Chairman Twaha for making this possible,” the Jomvu MP said.