AFRED ZWELIBANZI YINGWANE FOOTBALL CLINICS

On the 24^th of September 2025, Heritage Day, the Alfred Zwelibanzi Kids Football Clinics took place. An initiative driven by Imizamo Yamakhosikazi and supported by Emakhazeni Local Municipality. The aim of these clinics was to nurture young football talent in the jurisdiction of Emakhazeni Local Municipality. 90 kids were selected across Emakhazeni (Belfast, Dullstroom, Waterval Boven and Machardodorp). This initiative is in tribute of the late Mr. Alfred Zwelibanzi “Gubzen” Yingwane. Mr Yingwane was a well-known community Leader and played a crucial role in the development of football in Emakhazeni. 

The event was a huge success and thanks goes out to the stakeholders that made meaningful and important contributions. Mekgopa Logistics, Samketsi Consultants, the Department of Health and other notable sponsors played an important role in the success of this wonderful initiative. 

A special mention to the South African soccer household names namely Mr Lehlogonolo Majoro, former Amazulu, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City and Bafana Bafana Striker. Mr Reneilwe “Yeye” Letsholonyane, former Jomo Cosmos, Kaizer Chiefs, Supersport United and Bafana Bafana Midfielder, Mr Linda “Figo” Mntambo, current Sekhukhune United Captain and Ms Simphiwe Dludlu, former Banyana Banyana Captain. These Legends of South African Soccer interacted with the kids, coached them and motivated them serving as a wonderful inspiration to the kids. 

Also present were the local coaches in Emakhazeni including coach Kanu, coach Peter and coach Bhekumuzi amongst others. The football fraternity of Emakhazeniknows how important these local coaches are, and have always for football in Emakhazeni. 

The guests of honour, the 100 kids had a good and fruitful experience. EmakhazeniLocal Municipality would like to encourage the parents of these kids to continue supporting them and keep the off the street and away from drugs and substances. Not only in football but also other sporting codes and arts and culture activities. A message that was firmly spread on the day by the Executive Mayor of Emakhazeni, Ms N.A Mashele who was present throughout the whole event and welcomed the distinguished guests, our South African soccer legends. The honourable Executive Mayor also thank the initiators of the Alfred Yingwane initiative to continue with the good work and also called for similar initiatives that can benefit the youngstars of Emakhazeni. The honourable Executive Mayor thanked the sponsors and encouraged other businesses operating in Emakhazeni to continue to support these initiatives. In attendance from the side of the Municipality along side the Executive Mayor were the councillors, Cllr Mthimunye, Cllr Mmola, Cllr Nkosi , Cllr Lukhele, MrJaphta Mosotho (Manager in the Speaker’s office) and Mr Lindelani Nkosi (Youth Coordinator). Mr Japhta Mosotho and Mr Lindelani Nkosi formed part of the team that was involved in the planning of this initiative as representatives of the Municipality. 

Also, Present was Local Community Leader and renowned Pastor, Pastor Chirs Ka Nkosi. Pastor Chris was joined by the ventures Football Club Legends. Ventures is the football team that was founded and coached by Mr Alfred Yingwane. The legend behind this wonderful initiative.