Right back Mandela returns to Vipers

Defender Ashraf Mandela has returned to Uganda Premier League Champions Vipers SC, on a three-year deal.

The roving right back who is a product of St. Mary’s Kitende, the feeder team of Venoms was announced by the club on Wednesday.

“Vipers Sports Club are delighted to confirm the return of experienced right-back Ashraf Mandela, who has penned a three-year contract with the Venoms.” The club confirmed.

Madela returns to Kitende for his third stint. He first left for SC Villa where he played during the 2018/19 season. He then switched to URA where he featured for the next four years.

In 2022, Mandela returned to Kitende, winning two League titles and the Stanbic Uganda Cup.

At the start of last season (2024/25), Mandela moved to Rwanda, plying his trade with Rwanda Police FC.

He will compete for a starting slot with Grant Matsiko and experienced Nico Wakiro Wadada.

“It feels great to be back home again. Vipers has always been special to me, and I am ready to give my best for the team and the fans,” Mandela said as quoted by the club website.

Mandela becomes the latest addition to the Vipers squad, following the arrival of Robin Kane Hney, Mark Yallah, Taddeo Lwanga, Odili Chukwuma, Kevin Dasylva Bady, and Enock Ssebaggala.