Vipers SC midfielder Abdul Karim Watambala has been crowned the Fortebet Real Stars Sports Personality for January 2026, describing the award as a major motivation in his career.
Speaking after receiving the accolade at Molecule Restaurant, Watambala expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting it comes at a crucial time as Vipers SC push to defend their league title.
“I feel very great to win this award today and I am privileged to be nominated.
It’s an honor and I give credit to my teammates for helping me achieve this.
I think it’s the beginning of everything because we’re trying so hard to defend the trophy,” Watambala said.
The in-form midfielder also paid special tribute to Allan Okello, who recently moved to Young Africans FC, saying the former Vipers talisman deserves recognition for his contribution to the team.
“Our best player left the club, so the team needs to step up so that we can defend the trophy.
I give this credit to Allan Okello because he was part of us.
He deserves a medal because he was already part of the squad, and when we win the trophy, we will deliver his medal to Tanzania,” Watambala added.
Watambala’s impressive January saw him register six goal contributions, scoring five goals and providing one assist, helping Vipers SC open a six-point gap at the top of the table.
Other winners included Jacob Kiplimo, who defended his World Cross Country Championship title, and Willy Kitata, who claimed the golf accolade.
