In a statement posted on his social media platforms, Okwi said the time had come to bring his playing career to an end, describing football as a sport that transformed his life both on and off the pitch
Kigali. Former Simba SC striker and Uganda national team captain Emmanuel Okwi has announced his retirement from professional football after an 18-year career, but says he will immediately reunite with the club's supporters by attending this year's Simba Day celebrations in Dar es Salaam.
The 33-year-old confirmed his decision on Tuesday, shortly after watching Simba register a 2-0 victory over Sudanese side Al Merrikh in a pre-season friendly played at the FERWAFA Stadium in Kigali, Rwanda.
Okwi revealed that although he has decided to hang up his boots, he will travel with the Simba squad to Tanzania to take part in the club's annual Simba Day event scheduled for this weekend.
"I will travel with the Simba team to Dar es Salaam for Simba Day. I have been invited to the event and I will be there to celebrate with the Simba family," said Okwi.
The announcement is expected to excite Simba supporters, many of whom still regard the Ugandan as one of the club's finest foreign signings.
During his time at Simba, Okwi established himself as a fan favourite through his goals, pace and consistency, playing a key role in the club's domestic success.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, Okwi said the time had come to bring his playing career to an end, describing football as a sport that transformed his life both on and off the pitch.
"The game has given me everything I ever dreamed of. It gave me purpose, unforgettable memories, lifelong friendships and achievements that I will always cherish," he wrote.
The former Uganda Cranes captain said wearing his country's colours was the greatest honour of his career and thanked everyone who contributed to his journey.
"Representing Uganda was a privilege that I will forever treasure. I also want to thank every club I represented, my coaches, teammates, family, friends and supporters who stood with me throughout my career," he added.
Okwi's retirement brings the curtain down on a career that saw him become one of East Africa's most accomplished forwards. Besides Simba, he featured for several clubs across Africa and Europe, earning a reputation as a prolific goalscorer and experienced leader.
His final club was Rwanda's Police FC, where he spent the closing chapter of his playing career before deciding to retire.
Although he is stepping away from competitive football, Okwi's appearance at Simba Day will give supporters an opportunity to celebrate one of the club's modern-day icons. His return is expected to be among the highlights of the event as Simba continue preparations for the 2026/27 season.
For many Simba fans, Okwi's retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy at the club and with the Uganda national team is expected to endure long after his final match.
