Kaizer Chiefs mark milestone with official launch of first Ladies team

Players during Kaizer Chiefs Ladies Team Launch at Brima Cafe in Daveyton on 31 March 2026 ©Alche Greeff/BackpagePix

Unathi Mabena has been appointed head coach, with Justice Khunou as assistant, leading a Johannesburg-based squad of 24 players that includes former Banyana Banyana midfielder Mamello Makhabane alongside Zanele Kunyamane and Katlego Mohale.

They will compete in the Gauteng Sasol League after acquiring the status of Springs Home Sweepers, owned by former Chiefs player Joseph Mkhonza.

Amakhosi Chairman Kaizer Motaung expressed his pride in the launch, saying the move represents “a broader vision to ensure that the game continues to elevate, to include more people, and to stand stronger in the years ahead”.

Part of a club statement read: “Kaizer Chiefs Football Club have taken a significant step in their history on 31 March 2026, with the official launch of Kaizer Chiefs Ladies in Daveyton, marking an important moment for the Club and for women’s football in South Africa.

“The establishment of the Kaizer Chiefs Ladies team represents a clear commitment from the Club to invest in the women’s game, to create meaningful opportunities for players, and to contribute to the continued growth of football in the country.

“This follows a deliberate and structured journey built over several years, in collaboration with key partners in the women’s football space.”

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Motaung added: “This is a proud moment for Kaizer Chiefs. 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. Women’s football is an important part of the future, and we are committed to being part of that journey.

“When you build something of this nature, you must think beyond the present moment. You must consider the generations that will follow and the responsibility that comes with that.

“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 said: “This is about building real pathways for women in the game.

“The women’s game is growing rapidly across the world, and South Africa is part of that upward trajectory. 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.”