Africa-Press – Eswatini. Renowned South African business mogul and football executive Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize has officially taken the reins as President of Mbabane Highlanders AM, ushering in a new era for one of Eswatini’s oldest and most beloved football clubs.
In a candid interview on SABC Sport with Andile Ncube, MaMkhize shared her vision for the team and reflected on the lessons learned from her past football ventures—particularly her controversial 2021 acquisition and relocation of Bloemfontein Celtic to become Royal AM.
A New Era, Not a New Club
Speaking passionately about the heritage of Mbabane Highlanders, MaMkhize made it clear that her leadership would not come at the expense of the club’s identity. “Mbabane Highlanders is a 1952 club. It has a structure and a history exactly like Bloemfontein Celtic. There’s no need for a name change or relocation,” she said.
The addition of “AM” to the club’s name, she explained, is symbolic of a new chapter, not a break from the past. “The ‘AM’ just represents a new era,” she added, reassuring supporters that tradition would be preserved under her leadership.
Owning Her Mistakes: A Public Apology
The football executive was refreshingly open about her past missteps—especially the emotional fallout following her purchase of Bloemfontein Celtic. “I think Bloemfontein Celtic was caught in the crossfire [when I bought the club]. Today, I must say I apologise profusely to them for changing the name. I could’ve done better,” she admitted.
MaMkhize acknowledged that the move to establish Royal AM in Durban was deeply personal. “I needed to have Royal AM for the sake of my son. I owe him that, and they [Celtic fans] were caught in the crossfire,” she confessed.
A Fresh Vision Rooted in Respect
With Mbabane Highlanders AM, MaMkhize is embracing a more inclusive, community-based philosophy, pledging to work closely with local stakeholders while safeguarding the club’s culture and loyal fanbase.
Her appointment has sparked widespread interest in Eswatini and the broader region, as supporters eagerly watch how the club evolves under her transformational yet reflective leadership.
As MaMkhize steps into this new role, her promise to honour the soul of Highlanders signals not only a personal evolution—but a potentially defining moment for football in Eswatini.
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