From the sunbaked streets of Bulla Pesa in Isiolo to the glimmering stadium lights of international football, Masoud Juma Choka’s story is one of unyielding passion, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.
Born on February 3, 1996, Juma has carved his name into the records of Kenyan football history, not just as a forward, but as a beacon of inspiration for young players emerging from often-overlooked corners of the country.
Juma’s journey began at Tumaini Primary School, where his love for the game took root.
He later led Isiolo Barracks Secondary School to a stunning victory in the Coca-Cola/AFCO Inter-military Schools Championship, netting five goals and earning the tournament’s MVP title.
At just 17, while juggling his studies and early club football with Isiolo Youth FC in Kenya’s fifth-tier league, Juma’s raw talent began to shine.
Following a brief stint with Kambakia Christian Centre FC, he returned to Isiolo Youth before being discovered by Shabana FC during a national talent search at Kasarani.
His five goals in just three months sparked comparisons to legendary striker Dennis Oliech.
In 2014, he signed with Kenyan Premier League side Bandari. A serious ankle injury briefly stalled his momentum in 2015, just after earning a Kenya U23 call-up.
He bounced back to help Bandari win the FKF President’s Cup, scoring a crucial goal in the final against Nakumatt, and later lifting the Kenyan Super Cup in 2016.
Limited minutes at Bandari led to a move to Sony Sugar in 2016, where his creativity and eye for goal flourished.
In 2017, he joined Kariobangi Sharks and exploded onto the scene, leading the club to its first President’s Cup final and finishing the season as the league’s top scorer with 18 goals.
His domestic success earned him trials in Sweden and South Africa before he signed with South Africa’s Cape Town City in 2018.
Since then, Juma’s career has taken him across the globe with stints at Dibba Club (UAE), Al-Nasr Benghazi (Libya), JS Kabylie (Algeria), Difaâ Hassani El Jadidi (Morocco), Al-Faisaly and Al-Jabalain (Saudi Arabia), and most recently Esteghlal FC (Iran), where he played a key role in their 2024–25 Hazfi Cup triumph.
Internationally, Juma made his senior debut for Kenya in 2017 during an AFCON qualifier against Sierra Leone.
Despite early criticism, he bounced back by scoring in a friendly against Mauritania.
Since then, he has earned over 20 caps and scored eight goals, including contributions to Kenya's 2017 CECAFA Cup title.
At the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Kenya, Juma played a pivotal role in Harambee Stars’ opening match against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday.
Starting as the centre-forward, he led the line with experience and grit, pressing the Congolese defence and linking play in Kenya’s hard-fought 1–0 win at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
However, his momentum was cut short after sustaining a minor injury during that match.
Head Coach Benni McCarthy confirmed on Wednesday that Juma would miss today’s key Group B clash against Angola, although he reassured fans that the injury is not serious.
"We don't want to take chances, but it is not a very serious one," McCarthy said during the pre-match press conference.
Juma’s absence will be felt, as he is the most experienced striker in the squad.
His likely replacement could be Ulinzi Stars winger Boniface Muchiri, who came on as a substitute against Congo.
This shift may allow Ryan Ogam to revert to his natural position as centre-forward after starting on the wing.
Despite acknowledging Angola’s quality, highlighted by their strong performance in a 2–0 loss to two-time champions Morocco, McCarthy expressed confidence in his tactical setup, noting that modern football is about making the most of key moments, not just controlling possession.
At 1.87 meters tall, Juma is a powerful presence in the final third, known for his finishing, intelligence, and resilience.
Off the pitch, he remains an ardent Arsenal fan and continues to draw strength from his Isiolo roots.
Today, Masoud Juma is more than just a journeyman striker. He is a symbol of perseverance, a boy from Bulla Pesa who defied the odds, crossed borders, and rose through the ranks with grit and heart.