Amakhosi enters the arena: Kaizer Chiefs officially launch Women’s Team

In a landmark moment that reshapes the landscape of South African football, Kaizer Chiefs have officially launched Kaizer Chiefs, Ladies.

The historic unveiling took place on Tuesday in Daveyton, marking the Glamour Boys’ formal entry into the women’s game and fulfilling a long-standing plea from the Amakhosi faithful.

The establishment of the side is the culmination of a meticulous, multi-year strategy aimed at ensuring the club doesn’t just participate, but actively contributes to the soaring trajectory of women’s football in Africa.

This is about building real pathways for women in the game.” ✍️✨

Today marks a historic milestone as we officially unveil Kaizer Chiefs Ladies. We aren’t just joining the league; we are honouring the years of work by pioneers like Springs Home Sweepers and Joseph Mkhonza to… pic.twitter.com/qPT5hmAsm5

— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) March 31, 2026

Kaizer Chiefs Officially Launch Women’s Team in Daveyton

The journey to this launch was not an overnight decision. Chiefs began their strategic foray into the space in 2023 through a partnership with Gauteng-based outfit Springs Home Sweepers. By 2025, that relationship had evolved into a formal collaboration, allowing the Naturena-based club to absorb the necessary expertise and capacity to run a professional women’s unit.

As part of the launch, the club expressed deep gratitude to Joseph Mkhonza. The former Chiefs player and respected coach has been a pillar of the women’s game, and his influence was instrumental in laying the groundwork for this new era.

Chiefs also acknowledged the South African Football Association (SAFA) for their guidance in integrating the club into the existing structures, specifically within the Gauteng Development League and the Sasol League, where the team will compete for the 2026 season.

The Squad: A Blend of Youth and Legend

Kaizer Chiefs Ladies have assembled a formidable 24-player roster designed to compete immediately. The squad headlines with the legendary former Banyana Banyana midfielder Mamello Makhabane, whose veteran experience will be vital in the dressing room.

The team also features rising stars and junior internationals Zanele Kunyamane and Katlego Mohale, alongside several players with Hollywoodbets Super League experience. This blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent signals the club’s intent to climb the ladder toward the top flight rapidly.

The technical team will be led by Head Coach Unathi Mabena, supported by Assistant Coach Justice Khunou.

The Leadership Vision

Chairman Dr Kaizer Motaung described the launch as a proud chapter in the club’s 56-year history.

“As a Club, we understand the responsibility we carry within South African football, and this step reflects our commitment to growing the game in a meaningful way,” said Dr Motaung. “Kaizer Chiefs Ladies is part of a broader vision to ensure that the game continues to elevate, to include more people, and to stand stronger in the years ahead.”

Marketing and Commercial Director Jessica Motaung, a long-time advocate for women’s sports, emphasised the importance of visibility and commercial viability. Backed by official partner Brima Logistics, the program aims for long-term sustainability.

“We want female soccer players to see this team and understand that there is a place for them within Kaizer Chiefs and within the global game,” Jessica Motaung noted. “The support of corporate investment cannot be underestimated as it plays a critical role in the holistic development of the women’s game.”

Home Ground and Logistics

Kaizer Chiefs Ladies will split their home fixtures between the high-performance environment of the Kaizer Chiefs Village in Naturena and the Kwa Thema Stadium in Springs, maintaining their strong ties to the community that helped birth the project.

With the “Gold and Black” now officially represented on the women’s pitch, the 2026 Sasol League season promises to be one of the most-watched in history.