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Akena has earned two caps for the Uganda Cranes, but has not been part of the set up for the last two years.
Ugandan midfielder Chris Pius Akena has set his sights on not only leaving an indelible legacy at Kenyan champions Gor Mahia but also using the club’s platform as a stepping stone to reignite his career with the Uganda national team.
Akena, who recently joined Gor Mahia from Greek side Apollo Pontou, is confident that the Kenyan league’s visibility and Gor Mahia’s reputation will pave the way for his return to Uganda’s Cranes.
Akena’s move to Gor Mahia follows in the footsteps of some of his celebrated compatriots who made a significant impact at K'Ogalo, such as midfielders Baba Rahman Kizito and Khalid Aucho, both revered figures among Gor Mahia’s supporters for their stellar contributions.
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The 21-time Football Kenya Federation Premier League (FKFPL) champions have a rich history of Ugandan players making a mark, with Kitara FC forward Patrick Kaddu helping Gor secure their record-breaking 21st league title last season. Now, Akena hopes to be the next Ugandan star to leave a lasting legacy at the club.
“The two clearly left a mark at the club going by the feedback I have been getting. I like Kizito most as he has been in the game for a long time,” Akena stated.
“He achieved a lot at Gor and the national team, something I yearn for. He is still going strong in the Vietnamese league, and all these can be traced to the foundation he laid at Gor.”
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Despite facing criticism back in Uganda for choosing Gor Mahia over potential moves in Europe or Asia, Akena believes the exposure he’ll gain with K'Ogalo will help him reestablish his presence on the international scene.
Having already represented Uganda with two caps against Gabon and Mauritania during Milutin Sredojevic’s tenure, Akena hopes that his performances for Gor Mahia will catch the attention of the national team selectors.
“I wish to return to the national team and cement my place in the midfield. I am sure the national team head coach keeps a close eye on players in foreign leagues for consideration,” Akena shared in an interview with Sports Boom.
One of the main advantages Akena sees in playing for Gor Mahia is the high level of visibility the club enjoys. Kenyan league matches, especially those involving Gor Mahia, are well-covered and frequently scouted by regional and international clubs.
This exposure, he believes, offers him a direct path to proving himself on a larger stage.
“The Kenyan league is always monitored by scouts and coaches. Gor matches are well-covered, meaning that it is easier to progress to the next level if I perform well,” he added.
With a focus on lifting titles and making a name for himself in the FKFPL, Akena’s journey at Gor Mahia represents a dual mission: to carry on the legacy of his countrymen and to reclaim his place with Uganda’s Cranes.
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