MBABANE – United we stand, divided we fall.
That old saying captures the turnaround at South African businesswoman Shauwn ‘MaMkhize’ Mkhize’s Mbabane Highlanders AM this season.
Last season was a rocky debut campaign for ‘MaMkhize. Fans were divided on her taking over the club from former Director Bheki ‘Rubber’ Simelane. Some fans even began cheering for the ‘Bull’s opponents.
The division centred on disagreements over the club’s directorship and the decision to change the traditional black-and-white colours to black and gold. The change for the capital city giants colours made some fans to believe ‘MaMkhize’s former team, Royal AM, had simply resurfaced in Eswatini.
The side endured early exits from the cup competitions and a relegation scrap for much of the 2025/26 MTN Premier League season. Highlanders AM eventually steadied themselves and finished fifth.
This season, however, the capital city giants look a different proposition, particularly in the knockout competitions. They have already reached their second final of the campaign and will face Nsingizini Hotspurs in the Premier League (PLE) Charity Cup final. They were also runners-up in the 8Bet Trade Fair Cup played two months ago.
However, ‘MaMkhize’ has credited the improved form to unity across every level of the club.
“As I said when I came, all I requested was unity – just as if we were a family. I think that is so far the secret to the success. Be it officials, players or fans, we just give them the same love.
“When I arrived there was also a huge division among the fans. As for now I want to put my hands together for them. All have returned to the team and we are just one,” she says.
One of the factors in the return of the fans has been the club’s decision to rebrand ahead of the new season, restoring the traditional colours and logo.
The numbers in ‘The Black Bull’s stand have been huge and they have been singing with one voice this season. Despite the chilly weather, the Highlanders stand at Somhlolo was packed which showed that ‘Bull’ fans are back on the same page.
