MBABANE – The Eswatini football fraternity is mourning the loss of yet another icon.
This follows the passing of the legendary Adam ‘Ankel Malume’ Dlamini, a versatile player formerly of Umbelebele and Manzini Wanderers. Dlamini, a lanky and highly respected figure in domestic football, reportedly died on Wednesday afternoon at Mbabane Government Hospital.
Sources close to the family revealed that ‘Ankel Malume’ had been hospitalised for an extended period, battling an undisclosed illness. One source, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed the deep shock felt by those who knew him. “We are truly shocked by Ankel’s death. We were hoping he would recover from the illness, but it’s better that you contact the family,” the source stated.
The heartbreaking news was corroborated by a family member found at Dlamini’s Msunduza home yesterday. “Yes, he is dead, but please contact one of his sons,” the elderly relative confirmed, adding: “We are hoping that he will be laid to rest next week as we are still waiting for some of his children who are based overseas.”
One of Dlamini’s sons, who preferred not to be named, further elaborated on his father’s final days, confirming he had been unwell for some time. “We are shocked as a family and there is nothing much to say, but we are hopeful that the funeral will be held next week on a date yet to be communicated,” he said. He added that the family is awaiting the arrival of overseas relatives to finalise funeral arrangements.
Michael ‘Scara’ Gama, a former teammate of Dlamini at Manzini Wanderers during the 80s, spoke of his profound sadness at the news. Gama fondly recalled welcoming Dlamini to the team after his move from Umbelebele. “He was a good and humble player, who played different positions in the club. He liked to take shots at goal, yet he was a defender,” Gama remembered.
News of Dlamini’s passing also sent shockwaves through the wider football community, with supporters taking to social media platforms to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late legend. He also played alongside renowned commentator and Sihlangu legend William ‘Cool Cat’ Shongwe.
Leave a comment