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Uganda Premier League golden boot winner Ivan Ahimbisibwe has officially begun life with Iraqi side Zhako SC, with the prolific striker already taking part in training sessions as he prepares for one of the biggest challenges of his career.
The forward, who finished as the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League top scorer, arrives in Iraq carrying the reputation of one of East Africa's most clinical finishers. His move represents another major milestone for Ugandan football, with Ahimbisibwe joining a club that has established itself among Iraq's top sides in recent seasons.
Ahimbisibwe's arrival comes at an exciting time for Zhako SC. The club enjoyed a memorable 2025/26 campaign, earning continental recognition after representing Iraq in the Gulf Club Champions League, where they competed against some of the strongest clubs from across the Gulf region.
Zhako SC also enjoyed remarkable domestic success by lifting the Iraq FA Cup, defeating fierce rivals Duhok SC in the final. The triumph secured silverware for the club while also reinforcing its growing status within Iraqi football.
Winning the prestigious cup has elevated expectations ahead of the new season, and the club will be hoping that Ahimbisibwe's proven goalscoring ability can strengthen an already competitive squad.
Perhaps the biggest attraction for the Ugandan striker is the opportunity to feature in the AFC Champions League this season.
The competition brings together Asia's elite clubs, giving Ahimbisibwe the chance to test himself against some of the continent's finest defenders while showcasing his talent on one of Asian football's biggest stages.
For any player, competing in the AFC Champions League is a significant achievement, and it offers Ahimbisibwe the platform to further raise his profile beyond East Africa.
Having conquered the Uganda Premier League scoring charts, Ahimbisibwe now faces the challenge of adapting to a new league, different style of football, and higher expectations.
His movement inside the penalty area, aerial strength, and eye for goal made him one of the most feared forwards in Uganda last season. Zhako SC will be hoping those qualities translate quickly into the Iraqi Premier League as they chase more domestic honours and aim to make an impact in continental competition.
For Ugandan football supporters, Ahimbisibwe's move is another encouraging sign of local talent earning opportunities abroad. Success in Iraq would not only boost his own career but also continue to enhance the reputation of Ugandan strikers on the international stage.
With pre-season preparations now underway and continental football on the horizon, all eyes will be on Ivan Ahimbisibwe as he embarks on an exciting new journey with Zhako SC.
