MBABANE – Tragedy!
Capital city giants Mbabane Swallows Super fan Muzi ‘Bondas’ Simelane, who once hitchhiked across borders to watch the national team has died, leaving the football community heartbroken and mourning.
According to sources, ‘Bondas’, tragically died after allegedly being shot while fleeing police on Thursday afternoon. He was suspected in a stock-theft case, though investigations remain ongoing.
‘Bondas’ mother confirmed his passing, explaining that they are still in shock and that they hope to engage with the police on the matter. The relative added that the family is not ready to comment further as they come to terms with their loss.
Deputy Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Assistant Superintendent Nosipho Mnguni stated that two men aged 37, suspected of stock-theft were allegedly shot while fleeing at around 5:30pm at Masundvwini Farm, with police enquiries continuing.
Bondas’ legacy runs deep in Eswatini football. Before becoming the energetic, ever-present Umkhonto KaShaka supporter, he played as an attacking midfielder for Nkwene Sundowns, now competing in the MulaSport National First Division, during the years the club participated in the Buseleni Zonal League.
ween 1996 and 2000.
Around 2015, he re-emerged in the football scene, this time as a vibrant supporter whose iconic Swallows outfit, booming vuvuzela and infectious dance made him a familiar face at major fixtures.
He was almost always present when Swallows or Sihlangu played, celebrating wins and energising the crowd.
He followed Swallows through their golden era, witnessing Ingwenyama Cup victories from 2015 to 2018 and league triumphs between 2016 and 2018.
When Swallows reclaimed the league in the 2023/24 season, he was again part of the celebrations, and he travelled to watch CAF competitions whenever he could.
His most remarkable display of loyalty came when he hitchhiked hundreds of kilometres to watch Sihlangu play in Port Elizabeth, only turning back at Richards Bay due to the exhausting journey.
That campaign ended with three draws and a defeat to South Africa, leaving the team eliminated.
In stadiums, Bondas was a joyful, energetic presence, always dancing, singing and lifting the mood of fellow supporters.
Outside football, he earned a living making bricks, though he occasionally faced legal troubles that prompted fellow fans to help with bail and fines.
His devotion to the sport was recognised in 2024 when he was awarded Supporter of the Year, receiving a mobile phone worth E2 499 and E1 000 in appreciation of his unwavering commitment.
Swallows National Supporters Committee Chairman Mboni Dludlu expressed deep sorrow at the news, stating that the club intends to visit the family to offer condolences and learn more about the circumstances.
He added that Bondas’ passing is felt across the football community, which has lost one of its most passionate and joyful supporters.
National Team Supporters Committee Chairman Menzi ‘Madlakadlaka’ Dladla, who was also his neighbour, described Bondas as a gifted singer and natural entertainer who brought terraces to life.
Dladla recalled that during COVID-19 restrictions, Bondas would watch matches through the trees just to feel close to the team he loved, and that he would celebrate or grieve with equal intensity depending on the outcome.
Bondas leaves behind a lasting legacy of joy, colour and unmatched devotion, a symbol of the passion supporters bring to the beautiful game.
Leave a comment