Oyemba to play for Norwegian side as Oburu goes to Zesco

AFC's Goalkeeper John Oyemba clears the ball during the KPL match against Tusker FC at Kasarani Stadium, November 28, 2020. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Former AFC Leopards custodian John Oyemba has joined Norwegian fourth-tier side Fjellhamar FK, while Vincent Oburu has signed for Zambian Super League side, Zesco United.

Oyembe terminated his contract with Ingwe when he went to Norway for studies. The Lorenskog-based side confirmed signing the 28-year-old goalkeeper.

“It is truly not commonplace to be able to welcome a national team player to us in Fjellhamar FK. The 28-year-old goalkeeper joined our A-team gang earlier this year, after the transfer from the Kenyan Premier League and AFC Leopards from Nairobi went smoothly,” the team said.

“John Oyemba is a student and the transition from professional football in his home country to studies and Norway is, as you can imagine, relatively large. We warmly welcome John to Fjellhamar and look forward to seeing him in matches and training ahead.”

Oyemba previously turned out for Kariobangi Sharks, winning the Sports Journalist Association of Kenya Golden Glove in 2017.

He later joined Nairobi Stima before signing for AFC Leopards in October 2020. The custodian nurtured his career while at Jamhuri High School. He also played for the national Under-17 team, before joining the senior team, Harambee Stars. 

The goalkeeper has two national team call-ups and was part of the Harambee Stars squad that took part in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Egypt.

Other Kenyans who have joined Norwegian sides include John ‘Mo’ Muiruri, who signed for Moss FK football club and Arnold Origi, who played for Hodd the Norwegian second division which is the third highest level in Norway league. 

Meanwhile, Oburu completed his transfer to Zesco United and is expected to feature in the weekend match against Kafue Celtic.

The 24-year-old forward was part of the national team Harambee Stars that took part in the 2017 CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup campaign.

At AFC Leopards, the striker successfully rose to prominence by netting goals to his side.