Gomba Raise UGX 18 Million in Fundraiser as Push for Sixth Masaza Cup Title Intensifies

Gomba’s quest for a historic sixth Buganda Masaza Cup title has received a financial boost after a fundraising drive held at Jevine Hotel in Kampala raised UGX 18 million, although more funds are still needed ahead of the final against Kyaggwe on October 31.

Despite the encouraging response, team manager Resty Mbatidde Namugema remains confident that more supporters will come on board as the record champions intensify preparations for the decisive encounter.

Speaking at the fundraising event held on Friday, October 16, Mbatidde expressed gratitude to the Gomba community for supporting the team’s campaign.

“I am glad that our fellow Gombanians are fully committed to supporting our team in the campaign to win the sixth trophy. Today, we have generated UGX 18 million, and we hope for more,” Mbatidde said.

She added that the fundraising drive had started in Kampala, with more meetings expected, potentially in Gomba, as the team seeks to reach its financial target.

“We have started in Kampala, and the turnout has been interesting. More meetings are coming, probably in Gomba. Being able to raise UGX 18 million is encouraging, but it remains less than what is needed. Over UGX 45 million is our target to put us in a manageable position,” she added.

Edward Buyonje of TIMO Timo Bakery was among the leading contributors, donating UGX 4 million in cash alongside 50 loaves of bread. Honorable Juma Witonze pledged UGX 5 million, with the money expected to be delivered on Monday, October 19.

A significant portion of the UGX 18 million raised came through pledges expected to be fulfilled by the middle of next week, while more than UGX 7 million was collected in cash.

The fundraising initiative is intended to strengthen the club’s preparations for the Buganda Masaza Cup final against Kyaggwe on October 31.

Gomba are also pursuing a historic achievement, hoping to become the first team to win the Masaza Cup with women leading the campaign. The team is under the leadership of chairperson Dr Jane Namatovu and manager Resty Mbatidde Namugema.

Dr Namatovu vowed to continue pushing until Gomba lift this year’s trophy, insisting that the team’s efforts would only be worthwhile if they emerged champions.

“All our efforts will mean less if we don’t win this trophy. That is why I am not satisfied yet. I will only feel okay when we win the trophy,” she said.

Gomba secured their place in the final after eliminating Buddu 3-1 on aggregate in the semi-finals, booking their 11th appearance in the competition’s final.

At the quarter-final stage, they defeated Butambala 3-0 on aggregate before progressing from the group stage, where they finished behind Kyaggwe in the Masengere Group.

With the final approaching, Gomba will be hoping that the fundraising drive and continued support from their community provide the financial backing needed to complete their campaign with a sixth Masaza Cup title.