Humphrey Katasi Signs Two-Year Deal with Gor Mahia, Eyes CAF Champions League

Goalkeeper Humphrey Katasi has completed one of the most eye-catching transfers of Kenya's close-season, crossing from AFC Leopards to reigning champions Gor Mahia after signing a two-year contract with K'Ogalo in a move that sends a first-choice number one straight from Ingwe's backline to their fiercest rivals.

The transfer, officially confirmed in mid-July 2026, had been the subject of intense speculation for several weeks before Gor Mahia announced they had secured the goalkeeper's services. For Katasi, the decision was straightforward: a bigger stage, an international campaign, and the chance to test himself at continental level for the first time in his career.

"It is a higher platform which has come at the right time. Playing at the international level (CAF Champions League) means a lot to me and the growth of my career because I have wished for it for a long time."

The 26-year-old's path to this moment has been shaped by patience and consistent improvement. He first announced himself to Kenyan football at Nzoia Sugar, where an outstanding 2022–23 FKF Premier League campaign — anchored by 17 clean sheets — earned him the season's Golden Gloves award. That form persuaded AFC Leopards to bring him in during 2023, though he spent his early months at the club as backup to experienced custodian Levis Opiyo. The 2025–26 season saw Katasi firmly establish himself as Ingwe's undisputed first choice, a key figure as the club finished second in the league.

Arriving at Gor Mahia, however, Katasi will face immediate competition for the starting jersey. K'Ogalo's goalkeeping department also includes Harambee Stars international Byrne Omondi and Michael Onyango, who joined from Equity Bank. The presence of three capable custodians should generate healthy internal competition — precisely the kind of environment that the club's technical staff will hope drives standards ahead of both a domestic title defence and a return to CAF Champions League action.

Katasi is the eighth player recruited by Gor Mahia in the current transfer window as the club aggressively reshapes its squad for the continental challenge ahead. AFC Leopards moved quickly to address the void left by his exit, confirming the signing of a replacement goalkeeper shortly after the deal was made public.

The move echoes a pattern that has become familiar in Kenyan football: Gor Mahia drawing talent from across the rivalry divide. The club made a similar move last season when they acquired full-back Lewis Bandi from Leopards. For Katasi, the priority is simple — cement his place in goal and help K'Ogalo make their mark in Africa.

Sources: Nation.Africa.