Latest news with #RoyalAM
IOL News
a day ago
- Politics
- IOL News
MaMkhize's Mbabane takeover: Glamour arrives but can it deliver substance?
Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize, centre, addressed supporters at CODEC Hall in Ezulwini this past weekend, marking the start of her ambitious presidency at Mbabane Highlanders AM FC — and a bold new chapter in Eswatini football. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix COMMENT Over the weekend, excitement rippled through the football landscape in Eswatini as Shauwn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize, the prominent figure behind the now-defunct Royal AM, officially stepped into her role as president of Mbabane Highlanders AM FC. It surely felt less like a football announcement and more like the start of a new era — one driven by image, ambition, and no small amount of controversy. This pivotal moment unfolded during a spirited gathering at CODEC Hall in Ezulwini, south of the capital, Mbabane, where a packed audience listened as Mkhize laid out her ambitious vision for the club. Her address resonated deeply with attendees, making the front pages of local newspapers. Mkhize's appointment has become a hot topic across the nation, stirring the enthusiasm of fans and football stakeholders alike, who are keenly awaiting the potential impact of her leadership. Her passionate call for unity among the various factions within Eswatini emphasised the importance of collaboration. She urged everyone to strive towards building a strong brand capable of showcasing Eswatini on the global football stage. But while many supporters quickly pledged allegiance to Mkhize's presidency, not all responses were positive. Some supporters took to the club's official Facebook page to voice their unease. Their concerns are not unfounded. Mkhize's track record in South African football is not merely colourful — it's chaotic. Royal AM, the club she previously owned, crashed out of the Premier Soccer League under a cloud of unpaid wages, legal wranglings, and an ongoing battle with SARS. Her appeal to have the club reinstated was rejected by the courts, and the football community south of the border has largely turned the page on her chapter. Now, she's attempting to write a new one in Mbabane. But is Eswatini ready — and is she? Her takeover brings immediate talking points. Will her son, Andile Mpisane — who once started matches for Royal AM despite glaring fitness questions — feature in the Highlanders squad? How much control will she exert, especially with Bheki 'Rubber' Simelane remaining on as Director and Governor? And perhaps most importantly: is this a short-term publicity surge, or the foundation for genuine long-term reform? Highlanders are no ordinary club. One of the oldest and most followed in Eswatini, their history is steeped in tradition and community loyalty. Injecting big personalities and South African flair might generate headlines, but it could also alienate loyalists who value substance over spectacle. That said, Mkhize is not to be underestimated. Known for her business acumen and resilience, she is expected to bring a dynamic and fresh perspective as the club aims for resurgence. As she embraces this new chapter with Mbabane Highlanders AM, Mkhize finds herself at the forefront of a movement aimed at reshaping Eswatini football — challenging existing norms and pushing for inclusivity. Still, the warning signs are too loud to ignore. Football isn't built on media buzz and motivational speeches. It's built on structure, consistency, and trust — none of which defined her Royal AM tenure. If she brings the same volatility to Mbabane, the consequences could be damaging, not just for Highlanders, but for Eswatini football at large. Mkhize is betting big — again. This time, the stakes involve more than just reputation. They involve a country's footballing aspirations. Whether Eswatini football likes it or not, MaMkhize will change the game — for better or worse.
IOL News
2 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
The Roy Moodley Legacy Cup: A new initiative for young football stars in KwaZulu-Natal
Durban businessman Roy Moodley is funding a football tournament that will be played in Durban later this month. Image: Supplied IN A move to empower the youth of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban businessman Roy Moodley has committed to nurturing budding football stars, believing that engagement in sports can deter young people from destructive paths. Moodley will provide funding for a local Safa football tournament, which begins later this month, with a prize purse of around R60 000. Speaking to Daily News, Moodley expressed his heartfelt conviction that sports played a crucial role in keeping young individuals fit, healthy, and focused. 'Sports keeps the kids out of the street and occupies them to stay clear from drugs and gangsterism. My aim is to encourage them to participate in sports and not engage in illegal activities,' he affirmed. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Despite his recent attempt to acquire the status of the Royal AM football club, a pursuit that did not materialise, Moodley has redirected his focus towards community empowerment through sports. Previously, he had invested substantial resources, and was poised to to spend R50 million to secure the club's status, as reported by Sportswire. However, negotiations with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) faltered, leading him to abandon his attempt. 'I have abandoned that quest; I am now going to concentrate on empowering young people through sports,' he remarked. Moodley also attempted to purchase the SuperSport United franchise that was up for sale more recently but the Minister of Sport's (Gayton McKenzie) son, Calvin Le John, was the successful bidder. Unperturbed, the businessman shared his ambitious vision for the upcoming Roy Moodley Legacy Cup, aimed at fostering young leaders both on and off the football pitch. 'This tournament will not only showcase talent but will also aid in developing responsible, future leaders,' he outlined. The inaugural Roy Moodley Legacy Cup is slated to take place later this month at Hoy Park, and promises to reward participants generously. The winning team will receive R30,000 as prizemoney, while the runners-up will take home R15,000. Additionally, the two semi-finalists will earn R5,000 and R1,200, respectively. Moodley, a well-established entrepreneur at the age of 71, is the founder of Royal Security, which has grown to become one of the largest private-sector safety and security companies in KwaZulu-Natal. Apart from his sports contributions, he has also made a name for himself as a racehorse owner and breeder, which underscored his diverse business interests and commitment to community development. DAILY NEWS
The South African
3 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Will Andile Mpisane play for mom's new club? MaMkhize responds
Shauwn Mkhize – fondly known as MaMkhize – has shut down speculation that her son Andile Mpisane will play for Mbabane Highlanders AM FC. Last week, the businesswoman officially signed a three-year presidency deal with the eSwatini soccer club. This news comes months after SARS seized her South African team, Royal AM, to pay off her R40 million debt. Although the club includes the initials of his name – AM, or Andile Mpisane – his mother, MaMkhize, revealed that her son would take a step back. Speaking to Andile Ncube on Metro FM, the controversial businesswoman said: 'He wants to be in the management space now. 'I don't see him going there [to eSwatini], but he enjoys being in the business side of things.' When asked if Andile Mpisane had hung up his soccer boots, his mother responded, 'I don't know, but for now, I think so. Will Andile Mpisane play for his mom MaMkhize's new football club? Images via Instagram: @kwa_mamkhize 'Because even when Royal AM was there, he was starting to learn the administrative part of it. 'I think all that he wanted was to play in the elite league – which he did, he tasted that' With his football career likely over, Andile Mpisane will likely focus his attention on his budding music career or his hobby of collecting luxury cars. The 24-year-old is known for his expensive taste in cars and clothes, and posts bragging about his soccer skills. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 . Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp , Facebook , X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
3 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
'We don't want Royal AM': Supporters of MaMkhize's new club
A group of football supporters of Mbabane Highlanders FC – now renamed Mbabane Highlanders AM FC – are rejecting the new position of power given to MaMkhize, real name Shauwn Mkhize. Last week, the businesswoman was announced as president of the eSwatini club. She has since called for 'unity' among fans and expressed her desire for the club to relive its 'glory days.' This news comes months after SARS seized her South African team, Royal AM, to pay off her R40 million debt. The club was later expelled from the PSL. During her first address as Mbabalane Highlanders AM FC on Sunday, 20 July, the club revealed that MaMkhize had 'called for unity and urged all stakeholders to play their part in restoring the club to its former glory'. It added: 'She emphasized the importance of protecting the club's image, encouraging everyone to refrain from public commentary that could hinder efforts to build a strong and respected brand'. 'Most significantly, she pledged her full commitment to making Mbabane Highlanders AM the leading football club in the country—on and off the pitch'. Last week, the eSwatini club confirmed that MaMkhize had signed a three-year presidency deal as the club's president. In a video clip, MaMkhize revealed that she had added a 'touch of gold' and her signature 'AM', and that players of the eSwatini club would now wear black and gold. 'New look. Same spirit. 🖤💛 Mbabane Highlanders AM F.C. is now draped in black and gold', a Facebook post from the club read. MaMkhize is the new president of Mbabane Highlanders. Images via Instagram: @kwa_mammkhize Although many Mbabane Highlanders AM FC fans have vowed to support MaMkhize as president of the club, others are wary and even concerned about her involvement. On its official Facebook account, many have rejected the new leadership and its link to the now-defunct SA club. Gcin'muzi Hlatshwayo: 'We are not Royal AM!' Imagine Sci-fi Mzanzi: 'This is disrespectful to this old club.' Doni Dlamini: 'Highlanders is dead now!' Denis De Sousa: 'Royal AM 2.0?'
IOL News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
From Royal AM to Highlanders AM? Mama Joy awaits MaMkhize's call
Waiting Royal AM superfan "Mama Joy" Chauke says she's waiting to hear from Shauwn Mkhize about her membership to become a Mbabane Highlanders AM supporter. Photo: Instagram Image: Instagram What does the future hold for Royal AM superfan Mama Joy Chauke now that the club have been kicked out of the PSL after owner Shauwn Mkhize's financial misgivings? South Africa's favourite super fan says for now, she's waiting to get word from MaMkhize about the KwaZulu-Natal club's future. "I'm still with Royal AM. We are just waiting for her to give us the green light to follow her there, otherwise, I will remain a Royal AM supporter until she announces that Royal AM is no more," Mama Joy said on Sunday, according to KickOff. "She will inform us if we can support Highlanders. They must treat her well because, as their president, she will attend every game. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ "Yesterday, I spoke with MaMkhize, and she mentioned that she is trying to organise travel packages for the Royal AM supporters so we can make our way to Eswatini. She added she remains fully committed to Royal AM – at least for now. "Personally, I'm still a card-carrying member of Royal AM, so I will become a Highlanders AM supporter once I receive their supporters' card. Interest from Eswatini is already pouring in. "I have been receiving many calls from Highlanders AM supporters in Eswatini, inviting me to join them. They want me to be part of their fanbase. Yesterday, I dominated all the front pages in Eswatini. And while Highlanders is a much larger club in that region, Mama Joy insists her loyalty is still tied to the original team – until told otherwise. "Highlanders is a huge team in Eswatini, with many more supporters compared to Royal AM, and they have qualified for the top eight. However, I am waiting for the Royal AM management to tell me what our next steps will be." Last week, the Durban businesswoman insisted on Robert Marawa's show on 947 that she did not buy the Eswatini club after she was appointed as their president. After her unveiling as their new president, she immediately rebranded the club Mbabane Highlanders AM. Mbabane Highlanders are the most successful team in Eswatini with 13 league titles to their name. However, they haven't been champions since 2001. In April, the PSL voted to kick MaMkhize's Royal AM out of the league. Royal AM had been placed under auction to recoup some of the R40 million that Mkhize owed to SARS. After an extensive bidding process, Durban businessman Roy Moodley appeared to have won the race to purchase the club, but after he could not cough up the funds, the sale collapsed, and the league decided to kick the club out. IOL Sport Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
