Wayodi dreaming big after sealing Kampala Queens move

Former Vihiga Queens skipper and Harambee Starlets midfielder Mercyline Wayodi is upbeat playing in Ugandan Women’s Football Super League will propel his career to new heights as she aims to continue his development with Kampala Queens.

Wayodi, 29, is the latest star to ditch the FKF Women’s Premier League giants after signing a two-year deal with an option for a further year if she impresses with the Ugandan Champions.

Speaking after attending Tuesday training with the rest of the team, Wayodi, who captained the reigning KWPL champions in 2022 following Enez Mango’s departure to Farul Constanta of Romania, said her dream is to clinch the Ugandan league with her new side.

"It was a nice feeling joining Kampala Queens and playing in foreign country as it gives me a lot of hope of advancing my career.

“It's my hope that I will help Kampala defend the Uganda Premier League crown and earn a chance to play in the CAF Women's Champions League via Cecafa qualifiers later in the year.

“While in Vihiga, I was part of the team that represented Kenya in the inaugural continental showpiece and I hope to repeat the same with Queens.

“I want to thank the Vihiga Queens management for believing in me and giving me chance to showcase my talent.

“They will always be my second home after Kampala and also for the fans I want to thank them for their massive support and it's my hope they will continue supporting me while in Kampala Queens."

Wayodi, was stripped of Vihiga club’s captaincy later in 2023 in favour of Robai Kebedi.

Her journey with the four times Kenya Women Premier League (KWPL) side began in 2021 when she signed from Kisumu All Starlets and made an instant impact on and off the pitch with the Vihiga County based side.

She previously featured for Oserian Ladies, Wadadia and Thika Queens.

Her move to Kampala Queens that coached by former Simba Queen (Tanzania) tactician Charles Ayiekoh Lukula, reunites her with former teammate Anita Namata, who joined the Ugandan side in January 2024.

Wayodi is the fourth player to ditch Vihiga recently after Winnie Babirye, who joined Makerere Queens in Uganda, Janet Bundi who decamped to Yanga Princess in Tanzania, and Bertha Omita who signed for Sethu FC in India.

Kampala Queens are eager to retain their topflight title this season and will rely on Wayodi to push their agenda particularly in the central midfield department alongside Shakira Mutibwa and Damali Matama.