Dr Kaizer Motaung, the revered founder of Kaizer Chiefs, has reflected on the beginnings of his iconic club, revealing that many initially dismissed his vision as a “crazy idea” back in the 1970s.
His candid reflections came after he was honoured with a second honorary doctorate from Wits University, providing a rare glimpse into the determination and foresight required to build one of South Africa’s most beloved football institutions.
Wits University’s Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management conferred a Doctorate in Commerce on the PSL executive member, recognising his significant contributions to SA football and the broader sports landscape. He was first conferred with an honorary doctorate in Social Science by the University of Cape Town in 2022.
Adding to his extensive list of honours, Dr Motaung was also inducted into the South African Hall of Fame in November 2023. This recognition celebrated his “enduring commitment and positive influence on countless lives through sports and community engagement.”
Chincha Guluva’ as Dr Kaizer Motaung is affectionately known, has witnessed his club, formally established on January 7, 1970, grow into a household name, not just in Africa but across the globe.
However, the former Orlando Pirates star openly admits that the journey to build Kaizer Chiefs was far from easy. “When we founded Kaizer Chiefs, many thought it was a crazy idea,” said Motaung. “One of the most significant challenges I faced was starting Kaizer Chiefs FC and building it into the powerhouse it is today.”
‘MANY THOUGHT IT WAS A CRAZY IDEA’ – DR KAIZER MOTAUNG REFLECTS ON CHIEFS’ HUMBLE BEGINNINGS
Dr Motaung added: “We had limited resources, no established fan base, and a lot of scepticism about our chances of success. But I believed in the potential of the club, and I was determined to make it happen,” said Dr Motaung.
“There were many obstacles along the way. We faced financial struggles, logistical challenges, and intense competition from established teams. But I never gave up. I worked tirelessly to build a strong club. We attracted talented players, and developed a winning culture and subsequently became known as the winners.”
According to their official website, Chiefs stands as the most decorated club in South African football history, boasting over 90 trophies, including multiple league titles.
Notably, the Amakhosi are also one of only three South African teams to have won a CAF competition, having defeated Interclube of Angola in 2001 to clinch the Cup Winners’ Cup [now known as the CAF Confederation Cup]. That same year, the Soweto giants were further honoured as the African Team of the Year.
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Reflecting on his journey, Dr Motaung emphasised that his impact extended far beyond his playing career. “I believe my contribution goes beyond just football on the field. I can confidently say Kaizer Chiefs determines the happiness index of this country,” he stated.
He pointed to the recent Nedbank Cup victory, which broke the club’s 10-year trophy drought, as clear evidence of their profound influence. “A few weeks ago, we won a cup after about ten years. The country was in a completely different mood. I’ve never seen the country like that — it was as if a World Cup was played here, yet it was just a local competition, the Nedbank Cup,” Motaung recalled.
“That showed the power our supporters have. When we watched television, we saw universities, hostels, and townships; everywhere, people were celebrating. This just tells you how much we touch the hearts of the people in this country.”
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