Times Of Swaziland: 'MAMKHIZE' FUELS M. PIRATES LINK

'MAMKHIZE' FUELS M. PIRATES LINK
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Machawe Fakudze on 07/04/2025 08:45:00


(At Somhlolo National Stadium)
LOBAMBA – Flamboyant South African businesswoman Shawn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize
has ignited speculation about a potential association with Moneni Pirates,
hinting at ongoing discussions.
Mkhize, the well-known owner of South Africa’s embattled DStv Premiership
outfit Royal AM, attended yesterday’s Ingwenyama Cup final at Somhlolo
National Stadium, joining His Majesty King Mswati III and a crowd exceeding 10
000 to witness the clash between Moneni Pirates and Royal Leopard.
Royal Leopard, affectionately known as ‘Ingwe Mabalabala’, secured a 1-0
victory in a closely-contested match, with Thokozani ‘Thikithi’ Dlamini’s
goal proving decisive.
Post-match, MaMkhize revealed her presence was more than a mere spectator visit.
Confirming an invitation from Moneni Pirates President Thulani Xaba, she
intimated that talks were underway concerning the ‘Sea Robbers’.
something
“I wouldn’t be here if there wasn’t something happening,” Mkhize stated
cryptically, intensifying rumours of a potential partnership or investment.
However, she declined to divulge specifics, adding: “but I can’t go into
details at this juncture.”
Despite Pirates’ runners-up position, MaMkhize commended their performance in
what she described as ‘a good game between two great teams.’ She observed
periods of dominance from the losing side, commenting: “Pirates played well,
they were simply unfortunate not to secure the win.” The Royal AM owner also
noted a positive trajectory in the local game, remarking on the improved
standard of football in Eswatini since her previous visit. That earlier trip saw
her club face Mbabane Highlanders in the TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup.
She clarified her role at yesterday’s final, emphasising, “Today I am here
as a spectator, not to compete.” Overall, she deemed it an ‘interesting
match’ demonstrating the enhanced quality of the sport in the kingdom. The
precise nature of the potential arrangement between MaMkhize and Moneni Pirates
remains a subject of intense scrutiny.