This archive report was first published on 19 November 2019.
Shafiq Batambuze, a Ugandan international and defender for Gor Mahia, has undergone a long-awaited surgery on his left knee. The operation, which took place in Uganda, comes after seven months of seeking financial assistance to cover the costs.
According to a statement on Gor Mahia's website, Batambuze is expected to be discharged from the hospital on Friday, November 22nd, 2019.
During an interview with Nation Sport, Batambuze revealed that he had received treatment at Kousu Hospital in Entebbe, Kampala, at a cost of Sh350,000, which was raised from family members and friends.
Doctors have informed Batambuze that he is expected to make a full recovery and return to the pitch within five months. He has assured Gor Mahia fans that he will see out his contract, which ends in November next year.
“I will have to finish my contract with Gor Mahia that is ending in November next year. I will be back strong, hopefully to help Gor continue its dominance in KPL and continental football,” said Batambuze.
Gor Mahia Chairman Ambrose Rachier has clarified that the club did not offer any monetary assistance to Batambuze, citing financial difficulties following the departure of their shirt sponsor, SportPesa.
“I’m a very honest person and I can’t lie that we contributed financially to help him undergo treatment. In fact I’m hearing it from you that he has been treated,” Rachier told Nation Sport.
The Ugandan left back suffered the injury in April during a Kenya Premier League match against Ulinzi Stars at Afraha Stadium.
