By Levy Masiteng
Kaizer Chiefs Football Club has announced the launch of Kaizer Chiefs Ladies in Daveyton, formally establishing a women’s team that the club said will compete in the Gauteng Sasol League in 2026.
The newly established team will be based in Johannesburg and will play its home matches at the Kaizer Chiefs Village and Kwa Thema Stadium in Springs, according to the club.
Among the notable players are former Banyana Banyana midfielder Mamello Makhabane, as well as junior internationals Zanele Kunyamane and Katlego Mohale.
The squad is further strengthened by players with experience in the Hollywoodbets Super League, the club said.
Leading the team will be head coach Unathi Mabena, assisted by Justice Khunou, both bringing valuable expertise and a deep understanding of the local football landscape, according to the club.
The formation of Kaizer Chiefs Ladies follows a partnership with Springs Home Sweepers, which began with initial discussions in 2023 and was formalised in 2025.
The collaboration enabled the club to build capacity within the women’s game, ultimately leading to the acquisition of Gauteng Sasol League status for the 2026 season.
The club also acknowledged the support of the South African Football Association in integrating the team into official football structures.
“Further strengthening the project is the backing of Brima Logistics, the official partner of Kaizer Chiefs Ladies, whose investment reflects growing corporate confidence in women’s football,” the club said.
Club chairman Kaizer Motaung described the launch as a significant milestone.
“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.”
“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,” said Kaizer Chiefs Marketing and Commercial Director, Jessica Motaung.
The club also extended its appreciation to former Kaizer Chiefs player and coach Joseph Mkhonza for his contribution to women’s football development, which it said helped lay the foundation for the team.
“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,” Motaung said.