FORMER AMAVUBI skipper Hamad Katauti Ndikimana is reported to have joined Kagame Cup holders Vital’O as they seek to build a strong squad for the tourney.

According to Burundian media, the 35-year-old defender Ndikumana is among 19 new players Vital’O signed this week in bid to bolster their side ahead of the tournament.

Ndikumana who has been out of football action for three years now is ready to be exploited by former coach Gilbert Yaounde Kanyankole.

Other known players reported to have been signed by the Burundian champion include SC Kiyovu quartet of goalie Andre Mpazimaka, Christian Mbirizi, Laudit Mavugo and Tuyisenge Pekeyake.

Vital’O is drawn in group C alongside Rwanda’s Police FC, El Mereikh of Sudan and Somalia’s Benadir.

Ndikumana helped Rwanda reach the African Cup of Nations 2004 for the first time in its history and is believed to be Rwanda’s best player at the tournament. 

Since Rwanda’s 1-0 home loss to Angola in the World Cup 2006 qualifications, he has never been called back to the Rwandan squad for allegedly helping Angola win this crucial match, which consequently led to Angola’s first appearance at the World Cup finals in 2006.

He played for Anorthosis, KV Mechelen, APOP Kinyras Peyias, Nea Salamina and KAA Gent. After several rows with Temuri Ketsbaia broke his contract with Anorthosis and signed for AC Omonia. He signed a contract with AEL Limassol in 2010 before joining APOP Kinyras Peyias FC a year later were he was released at the end of the season.