MBABANE – Dumsani ‘Du’ Makhanya is reportedly set to take over at Amawele following the dismissal of Head Coach Mpumelelo ‘Mapho’ Ngwenya and his assistants.
Amawele suffered a 3-0 defeat to Ezulwini United at Kalanga Technical Centre on Sunday, prompting the club to make sweeping changes to its technical structure.
The decision was initially confirmed by Amawele Public Relations Officer David ‘VAR’ Ndwandwe on national radio, before the club formally announced the departure in a statement issued yesterday.
In the statement, Technical Director Frans Mpedi said the decision had not been easy, while stressing that the club had to make difficult decisions in pursuit of its objectives. Ndwandwe, however, reiterated the club’s position that the move was about its long-term direction rather than disrespecting the outgoing coaches. “The technical team has been part of an important period in the club’s journey,” Ndwandwe said, acknowledging their ‘time, commitment, sacrifices and professionalism’. The club thanked Ngwenya, assistant Coach Christian Thwala and Fitness Coach Sibusiso ‘Spoko’ Dlamini for their contribution, while saying the result against Ezulwini United would not define Amawele’s season.
“Yesterday’s result will not define this club. It is one moment in a much bigger journey,” the club said. Ngwenya had earlier confirmed his departure, saying he believed the project had the potential to become something significant. “I am grateful for the opportunity to kick-start the project,” he said.
He also indicated that the demands of the project required a full-time coach and greater time with the players. The developments have now placed Makhanya at the centre of speculation surrounding the vacant position.
The Green Mamba coach was spotted watching Amawele’s defeat at Kalanga, fuelling reports that he could be preparing to make the switch following Green Mamba’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign ended. Reports suggested that Green Mamba wanted him mainly for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) campaign.
Makhanya’s current involvement with Green Mamba has also attracted attention because of the club’s continental commitments.
However, neither Amawele nor Makhanya have officially confirmed an agreement. Amawele’s coaching shake-up also comes amid an unresolved club identity issue. The club had sought to change its name to Mbabane Black Eagles, but the proposed name has not been approved for the current registration cycle. The PLE has also stated on national radio that Amawele’s proposed name change had not been approved, with the same situation affecting the proposed change of Red Rhinos to Wanderers FC.
Amawele were subsequently seen wearing a kit bearing the Mbabane Black Eagles logo, despite the name change not having been approved.
This raises questions over the club’s compliance with the applicable registration and competition requirements, particularly because clubs participating under CAF Club licensing competitions must operate under properly registered identities and meet club-licensing requirements. The coaching situation could also have contractual implications.
Where a coach has a valid fixed-term agreement, an early termination may trigger obligations under the contract, depending on the termination clause and the circumstances of the dismissal. FIFA’s regulatory framework provides for compensation in cases involving contractual breaches, although the precise position depends on the agreement and applicable jurisdiction.
Ngwenya declined to comment on the contractual position when approached.
Meanwhile, Kgomongwe, when contacted yesterday, denied firing anyone. He had not responded to further questions on the circumstances surrounding the changes by the time of compiling this report.
The latest developments represent another dramatic chapter for Kgomongwe, who previously made a debatable coaching decision at Mbabane Highlanders in 2022 when Ernest Mavuso and assistant Sandile Lulane were relieved of their duties despite the team being unbeaten in 10 league matches and sitting at the top of the table.
With Amawele now searching for a new technical team after one match, all eyes will be on who takes charge as the club attempts to begin a new chapter.
Leave a comment