Wesonga counting on strong South Sudan showing to seal Harambee Stars return
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 21.04.26. | 07:36
The central defender, currently turning out for South Sudanese champions Jamus SC, believes he is now in a better position mentally and physically to compete after a period of growth away from home
South Sudan-based Kenyan defender Haniff Wesonga has set his sights on a return to the Harambee Stars ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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The central defender, currently turning out for South Sudanese champions Jamus SC, believes he is now in a better position mentally and physically to compete after a period of growth away from home.
Wesonga joined Jamus in June 2025 on a two-year deal from Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB).
His rise saw him earn a call-up to the national team at just 20 years old in 2023 under the late coach Engin Firat.
Although he did not make his debut, he was part of the Stars squad that featured in the opening two matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Gabon and Seychelles.
Kenya suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to Gabon before bouncing back with a commanding 5-0 win over Seychelles.
Despite remaining on the bench, the experience proved invaluable.
He says being around the squad and witnessing the intensity of international football up close helped him better understand the demands at that level and how to handle pressure.
However, his progress with the national team stalled shortly after, with an untimely injury keeping him out for an extended period and disrupting his momentum.
There was also a controversial moment when he withdrew from the Kenya U23 squad that was set to travel to South Africa for the COSAFA tournament, leaving camp just hours before departure, with his place taken by then Kakamega Homeboyz forward, Moses Shumah.
Now back to full fitness and enjoying regular football abroad, the Mumias-born defender feels the time is right to push for a recall.
“It’s possible and that’s my wish. Even in the June matches, I want to be included. I feel okay and comfortable with my game now. I am ready and looking forward to coming back as soon as the June window,” Wesonga told Mozzart Sport.
The former Samitsi defender, who is also known for contributing goals from defence, is aware of the growing competition for places in the national team but remains confident in his chances.
“There is massive competition for places, but I believe with Champions League football, consistency and by working hard every day while avoiding injuries, I can make it to AFCON 2027,” he added.
He has featured in 17 matches for Jamus this season, keeping 10 clean sheets and scoring twice, helping the club maintain a strong push near the top of the table, where they currently sit second, five points behind leaders Al Meriakh Bentiu.
