Flamboyant South African businesswoman Shawn 'MaMkhize' Mkhize has sparked a fresh wave of speculation after hinting at a possible association with Eswatini's Moneni Pirates — all while her own club, Royal AM, teeters on the edge of collapse.
Mkhize, who owns Royal AM, a club currently under the curatorship of the South African Revenue Service (SARS), made a high-profile appearance at the Ingwenyama Cup final on Sunday at Somhlolo National Stadium. Her club back home faces an uncertain future, with reports suggesting they may be booted out of the Betway Premiership due to severe financial and administrative troubles.
While her presence at the match between Moneni Pirates and Royal Leopard raised eyebrows, it was her comments afterwards that truly set the rumour mill spinning.
"I wouldn't be here if there wasn't something happening," Mkhize told Eswatini Observer, after joining His Majesty King Mswati III and over 10,000 fans at the packed venue.
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The match saw Royal Leopard, known affectionately as Ingwe Mabalabala, edge Moneni Pirates 1-0 thanks to a goal from Thokozani 'Thikithi' Dlamini. But it was the activity off the pitch that stirred the most intrigue.
According to Mkhize, her visit to Eswatini was not simply ceremonial. She confirmed she had been invited by Moneni Pirates President Thulani Xaba, and hinted that discussions involving the club — affectionately known as the Sea Robbers — were already underway.
"There are ongoing talks. But I can't go into details at this juncture," she added, offering just enough to fan speculation without confirming any formal deal.
The timing of these hints is particularly noteworthy given Royal AM's dire straits. With the club facing possible expulsion from the South African top flight, MaMkhize's interest in Moneni Pirates has raised questions about her next move — and whether she is planning to shift her football ambitions across the border.
While nothing has been confirmed, the flamboyant entrepreneur's actions suggest she may be positioning herself for a new chapter in Eswatini football, even as her current project back home appears to be crumbling.
Whether this marks the beginning of a formal partnership or even ownership stake in Moneni Pirates remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: MaMkhize is not one to sit on the sidelines for long.
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