Simba SC winger Mohamed Bajaber is hoping to use his latest Harambee Stars call-up as an opportunity to redeem himself after a difficult spell since moving to Tanzania a year ago.
The Kenyan international, who is in the final Harambee Stars squad set to take part in the FIFA Series 2026, has endured a challenging start at Simba since joining from Kenya Police FC back in August 2025 as injuries have disrupted his progress and limited his impact.
Bajaber, who was part of Kenya Police FC’s title-winning squad before making the move, has struggled to find rhythm at his new club due to recurring fitness issues that have kept him out of action for extended periods.
His last competitive appearance for Simba came on January 18 against Mtibwa Sugar FC where he managed only 12 minutes before being forced off with an injury.
Opportunity for Mohamed Bajaber
The same injury had earlier delayed his debut for nearly two months, making it difficult for him to settle and consistently feature for the Tanzanian giants.
With limited game time at club level, Bajaber now views the FIFA Series as the perfect platform to rebuild his confidence and regain match sharpness.
The attacker is determined to make the most of the opportunity handed to him by Harambee Stars head coach Benni McCarthy.
“I see this as an opportunity because I have not been playing. I am looking at it as a chance to redeem myself, not just with Kenya but physically as well, so it is a big chance,” said Bajaber.
The winger was part of one of Harambee Stars’ most memorable performances under McCarthy in 2025 when Kenya held The Gambia to an entertaining 3-3 draw in a thrilling FIFA World Cup Qualifier.
On his national team debut, Bajaber scored one of the standout goals in the match in a performance that showcased his attacking quality and composure in front of goal.
Despite his struggles at club level, Bajaber remains grateful for the trust shown in him by McCarthy, especially considering he has not featured regularly for Simba in recent months.
The winger believes the coach’s confidence in him is a strong motivation to work harder and prove his worth on the international stage.
“It means a lot. Every time somebody gives you a chance not just to come and represent your national team but also in everyday life you have to be grateful, and of course I am very grateful,” he added.
As Harambee Stars prepare to face Estonia in their opening FIFA Series match in Kigali, Bajaber has assured Kenyan fans that he is ready to give his all whenever called upon.
“Right now I guess they can expect me to give my all. I am always going to give my all for the nation,” he concluded.
The Simba attacker will be hoping that a strong showing in Rwanda can reignite the spark that made him one of the standout performers at Kenya Police FC and help him regain form and confidence ahead of the remainder of the season with the title chasing Simba Sports Club.
Harambee Stars final 23-man squad
Goalkeepers: Faruk Shikhalo, Brian Bwire, Ian Otieno
Defenders: Manzur Okwaro, Abud Omar, Alphonce Omija, Mike Kibwage, Frank Odhiambo, Rooney Onyango, Daniel Sakari
Midfielders: Alpha Onyango, Duke Abuya, Richard Odada, Chrispine Erambo, Austine Odhiambo, Will Lenkupae, Mohammed Bajaber
Forwards: Job Ochieng, Zech Obiero, Clarke Oduor, Ryan Ogam, Lawrence Okoth, Ben Stanley