Uganda Premier League champions Vipers SC have strengthened their goalkeeping department with the signing of Gabon international Loyce Marius Mbaba on a two-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 28-year-old joins the Venoms as the club continues to reinforce its squad for a demanding campaign that will see them compete in the CAF Champions League, Uganda Premier League, Uganda Cup and Cecafa Kagame Cup.

Mbaba arrives with considerable experience from both club and international football. The goalkeeper has previously featured for Gabonese outfit Association Supportive Mangasport as well as Ivorian clubs; Stella Club and Bouake FC.

After signing his contract, Mbaba said: “I’m really, really happy to be here, really excited and looking forward to what is coming.

“The ambition shown by this club to get me here is something l can’t take for granted. I am excited for what lies ahead and can promise that I will give absolutely everything to try and help the club achieve even more success.”

At the international level, he has earned 14 competitive appearances for Gabon and was part of the squad that played at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where he featured in three matches.

His arrival follows the departures of goalkeepers Alfred Mudekereza and Bashir Ssekagya, who both left the club as Vipers reshape their squad after winning the 2025/26 Uganda Premier League title.

Mbaba is expected to battle for the number one jersey with Denis Kiggundu and Jack Komakech as Vipers prepare for a busy season ahead on multiple fronts.

The Gabonese shot-stopper becomes the club’s fourth signing of the current transfer window, following the arrivals of Jacques Mangoba, Nicholas Mwere and Joel Sserunjogi.

Mbaba will wear the number one (1) shirt and will immediately join up with his new teammates for tomorrow’s training session at St Mary’s Stadium.

Everyone at Vipers welcomes Mbaba to the club.

PLAYER PROFILE 

Full Names: Loyce Marius Mbaba 

Nationality: Gabonese

Date of brith: May 4, 1998

Age: 28 

Height: 175 cm

Position: Goalkeeper

Contract: Two Years 

Previous Clubs 

Stella Club d’Adjamé (Ivory Coast)

Bouake FC (Ivory Coast)

Association Sportive Mangasport (Gabon)