Today we celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the birth of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, a humble and selfless leader, stalwart of South Africa’s struggle and a tireless campaigner for democracy, freedom and justice, who became a global icon synonymous with the ideals of peace and reconciliation.

“Anyone who visits Kaizer Chiefs Village will bear witness to Madiba’s presence which is visible through pictures on the walls and the commemorative plaque that holds pride of place in the entrance to our offices,” said Jessica Motaung, Kaizer Chiefs’ Marketing Director. “Mandela Day reminds us to follow his example by helping those who are less fortunate.”   

Amakhosi ‘Hails the Chief’ by responding to his call to action – inspired by Madiba humanity and  generosity, Kaizer Chiefs undertook a range of initiatives aimed at making a lasting impact on our community.   

Sustainable efforts will ensure his legacy we will continue to make a meaningful and impactful difference on people who need Love & Peace the most.  

It all started on Wednesday morning when Kaizer Chiefs visited Greenside High School. The club handed over a full kit that learners can use when they play against other schools as sport and education were very important to Madiba. The hand over was done by Kaizer Chiefs players Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Daniel Cardoso and Ryan Moon, much to the delight of the learners. The initiative saw Joburg’s popular radio station, 94.7 host their breakfast show from the school, much to the delight of many learners and teachers. The station came bearing gift for all the learners. 

Our second activity saw Kaizer Chiefs join hands with our medical scheme partners Medshield as they visited the Hospice Witswatersrand in Houghton. Players Bernard Parker, Leonardo Castro, Bhongolethu Jayiya and Mulomowandau Mathoho visited the hospice and interacted with the patients and staff. Medshield staff helped clean the venue with all involved. The scheme’s Chairman, Mr Charles Akeroyd expressed his gratitude to the staff of the Hospice who work tirelessly with needy patients. Medshield donated R100 000 to the Hospice to help them continue their good work in the community. 

The last activation of the day saw the rest of the team, plus technical team visit Almont Technical High School in Protea South, Soweto. The school from which player Siyabonga Ngezana matriculated, has faced many challenges, one of them being a high rate of teenage pregnancy which has affected the school. On the education front, this technical school does not have a workshop and a hall, which is something they’d love to receive. Kaizer Chiefs’ Digital Manager Kemiso Motaung spoke to the learners about the importance of education, abstinence and safe sex. Kaizer Chiefs donated cleaning stuff, full kit for the school’s football team and sanitary pads, which will help those who need them so they do not miss school.

“We always celebrate Tata Mandela’s legacy because he is very close to the Amakhosi family as he was one of us,” says Kemiso Motaung. Madiba opened the Kaizer Chiefs Village in 2001 and handed over the Mandela Cup in 2001 to our Chief, Kaizer Motaung at Naturena wearing our iconic first Nike jersey. “It remains an unforgettable memory for all who were present.  As a ‘Khosi’, we know he expects us to always honour his legacy and continue helping those in need, because to whom much is given, much is required.”

Ms Mandu Baloyi, the school’s Principal, expressed her gratitude to Kaizer Chiefs for the visit by players who included Siphiwe Tshabalala, Itumeleng Khune, Siyabonga Ngezana, Willard Katsande, Khama Billiat, Kgotso Moleko, etc. as well as the technical team led by coach Giovanni Solinas. “The visit means a lot to us and we know it will inspire our pupils to work harder. We hope that Kaizer Chiefs continue to do more in the community as many look up to them.”

Kaizer Chiefs will continue to celebrate Madiba and his legacy through promotion of education, looking after the environment and uniting people through sport. 

A hundred years later, we remember you and salute one of history’s most iconic leaders, Madiba. #HailTheChief 

SOURCED FROM THE KAIZER CHIEFS WEBSITE.