Ugandan Star Eliphaz Emong, formerly of Kabras and now with Black Pirates RFC has joined South African side Belhar RFC on a short-term loan, marking the latest chapter in his well-travelled rugby career.
The deal as announced by his club is aimed at giving the front-rower valuable game time and international exposure.
In a statement, the club explained the move noting that it wasn’t an easy decision but best for the player.
“After careful consideration and discussion, we announce the loan of one of our talented players, Emong Eliphaz, to Belhar RFC in South Africa for a short stay. This decision was not taken lightly, and we believe this opportunity will allow Emong to gain valuable experience, develop his skills, and contribute to the success of his new team,” read part of the statement.
Press release
▪️ Loan move.
▪️ Emong Eliphaz sails to greater heights.COME ON YOU PIRATES ☠️ #StanbicPirates ll #RokeWithPirates ll #VisitKPA ll #PiratesStrong pic.twitter.com/auIRufQ5Lg
— PIRATES RUGBY (@piratesrugbyUG) August 11, 2025
The Pirates have a long history with the player, having chased him since his days at King’s College Budo in 2015. Emong instead began his senior career with Impis, then moved to Rams between 2016 and 2017.
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Emong Eliphaz Kabras Stint
In 2018, he signed for Kabras Sugar in Kenya before joining Nairobi’s Homeboyz RFC in search of more playing time.
Following that stint, he was convinced to return to Uganda in 2021 by the late Robert Seguya, then national team coach and Hippos boss.
Two years later, he returned to Kabras for a second spell, which, combined with his first, saw him win four trophies with the Kenyan giants.
He later switched to Jinja Hippos before finally joining Stanbic Black Pirates ahead of last season’s Uganda Rugby Premiership.
Dr. Dickens Akena, the club’s General Secretary, added:
“We are proud of Emong Eliphaz’s progress and achievements with the Pirates, and we are confident that this loan spell will benefit both the player and our club in the long run. We wish Emong all the best on this new adventure and look forward to his return to the Pirates’ ship.”
The move sees Emong follow in the footsteps of fellow Ugandan Wycliff Santos Ssenteza, another forward who made the switch to Belhar RFC.
