Sekhukhune confirm Cedric Kaze’s appointment as head coach

Cedric Kaze at Kaizer Chiefs

As first reported by FARPost, Betway Premiership side Sekhukhune United have officially announced Burundian tactician Cedric Kaze as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 campaign.

The Burundian tactician takes over at Babina Noko, replacing Eric Tinkler. Kaze arrives at Sekhukhune United after leaving Kaizer Chiefs when his contract expired at the end of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season.

He joined Amakhosi midway through the 2024/25 campaign to bolster then-coach Nasreddine Nabi’s technical team, following Fernando Da Cruz’s sudden departure.

His exit formed part of a wider overhaul at Naturena that also included co-coach Khalil Ben Youssef, conditioning coach Majdi Safi and goalkeeper mentor Ilyes Mzoughi.

Alongside Khalil Ben Youssef, he helped guide the Soweto giants to their best post-COVID finish. Amakhosi ended the season in third place, earning qualification for both the CAF Confederation Cup and the MTN8.

However, a new chapter beckons for the former Young Africans mentor as Babina Noko seek to reinvent themselves following a fifth-place finish during the 2025/26 season.

Cedric Kaze during a press conference
Cedric Kaze during a Kaizer Chiefs press conference. Picture by Kaizer Chiefs

SEKHUKHUNE LEADERSHIP OPTIMISTIC AS CEDRIC KAZE’S TENURE BEGINS

Sekhukhune United officially announced Kaze’s appointment on Friday, with club CEO Jonas Malatji optimistic about the club’s future under his guidance.

“As the club continues to pursue its ambitions, we are delighted to welcome Coach Kaze to Sekhukhune United. His extensive football background, proven leadership and valuable understanding of the Betway Premiership and the South African football landscape give us great confidence as we look ahead,” Malatji said.

The club said it is banking on Kaze’s vast experience, having coached across East and Central Africa, where he made a name for himself. In addition, Kaze holds a Bachelor of Sport Science degree and possesses both CAF A and German Football Federation A coaching licences.

“Coach Kaze brings a wealth of experience, having worked within the Burundi national team structures, at the renowned FC Barcelona Academy in Canada and as part of the successful Young Africans SC technical team in Tanzania.

“His expertise in player development, team building and high-performance football makes him a valuable addition to Sekhukhune United. The 46-year-old holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Science, CAF A and German Football Federation A coaching licences and played a key role in guiding Young Africans SC to the final of the CAF Confederation Cup in 2023,” reads the club’s statement.

RELATED STORY: Cedric Kaze lands Sekhukhune United role after Kaizer Chiefs exit