Kaizer Chiefs founder and chairman Dr Kaizer Motaung has been inducted into the South African Hall of Fame.
In a special gala event on Thursday evening, Motaung was honoured for his achievements in a colourful journey as player and football administrator.
The ceremony was attended by guests from all walks of life including sports, entertainment, and government to honour the man recognised as one of the founding fathers of South African football.
“Chincha Guluva” as Motaung is affectionately known is not only a renowned football legend and pioneering administrator, but he is also a philanthropist and a community leader who has dedicated his time and passion to using sport for social change and community development.
“The visionary founder and Chairman of the Kaizer Chiefs Football Club, Dr. Motaung, has not only sculpted the present and future of football but has also left an indelible legacy that will inspire generations to come,” Johnny Burger, the Chairman of the South African Hall of Fame said.
In an emotional speech, Motaung thanked his parents, wife, children, and fellow Chiefs founders for their support throughout his remarkable journey.
“I’m proud of everything that I have done towards the transformation and development of football, that did not go to waste, and that progress is there for everyone to see.
But as I said, the future belongs to the youth and there comes a time where you need to pass on the baton,” said the grateful and proud Motaung.
The 79-year-old’s football journey began in the dusty streets of Orlando, Soweto, at the age of 16 he played for Orlando Pirates and soon after that he played for Atlanta Chiefs in the US, where he played alongside greats like the late Brazilian soccer legend, Pele.
In 1970, Motaung founded Chiefs, which has since become one of the most supported and successful clubs in Africa.
Previous inductees include, former President Nelson Mandela, golf legend Gary Player, the 1995 and 2007 Springbok Rugby World Cup winning teams, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the 1995 African Nations Cup-winning Bafana Bafana team.
