By Robert Kayindi James
Uganda Cranes striker Hamis ‘Diego’ Kiiza has joined South Africa’s ABSA Premiership side Free State Stars on a two year deal.
The former Young Africans and Simba SC striker has been training with newly promoted Azam Uganda Premier League side Proline Football Club before his transfer.
The 25-year old striker now moves to South Africa’s topflight where he will join fellow country and Uganda Cranes stars in the names of Dennis Masinde Onyango of Mamelodi Sundowns, Geoffrey Massa and Khalid Aucho, both at Baroka FC.
Diego made his international debut for coach Bobby Williamson in May 2011 with the national U-23 side (The Kobs) when they faced off with Tanzania in an All Africa Games Qualifier.
He managed to net 3 goals in 2 games against Tanzania, helping the team to progress to the next round where they faced Kenya. He was then later summoned to senior team, the Cranes that would take on Guinea-Bissau in 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifier on 4th June 2011.
Player Profile:
Names: Hamis ‘Diego’ Kiiza
D.O.B: 10th October 1990
Clubs played for: URA FC in the Uganda Premier League, Young African FC and Simba S.C in the Tanzanian Vodacom Premier League.
Personal honours:
Ugandan Player of the year 2011 with URA FC
Top scorer, Uganda premier league 2010/11 with URA FC.
Top Scorer, Tanzanian Vodacom Premier League 2011/12 with Young African FC
CECAFA Club Winner and Top scorer with Young African FC 2012.