Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Humphrey Mlwane has opened up on his decision to return to the amateur ranks, taking over the coaching reins at the SAFA KwaZulu-Natal ABC Motsepe League side Njampela FC.
Mlwane recently parted ways with Eswatini Premier League outfit Tabankulu Celtic FC following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. He had joined Tabankulu Celtic on a short-term deal in February this year.
Under his tutelage, Tabankulu Celtic secured a ninth-place finish on the log standings, collecting 41 points from 30 outings. Despite the stable campaign, the club opted against renewing the coach’s contract.
Now back in South Africa, Mlwane has been tasked with leading KZN side Njampela FC for the upcoming season. He will be assisted by Lupini Miphy Guycha.
At Njampela, the ex-Amakhosi star replaces the well-travelled mentor Tshepo Motsoeneng, who has since jumped ship to join fellow KZN Motsepe League competitors Umvoti FC.
Last term, Njampela narrowly missed out on a spot in the provincial playoffs, finishing second in Stream A with 56 points from 22 games—just three points behind stream winners Umvoti.
WHAT MOTIVATED HUMPHREY MLWANE TO TAKE THE NJAMPELA FC PROJECT?
Speaking to FARPost, Mlwane admitted that heading back to the third tier wasn’t initially in his plans, but the ambition of the club’s leadership motivated him to join the team.
“You know, even I was surprised when I received the call from the chairman of Njampela FC [Vusi Buthelezi],” Mlwane told this publication. “We had discussions, and I understood his vision. Remember, I told you before that I would never coach in this league [ABC Motsepe League] again. But the way he explained things to me and his seriousness made me change my mind.”
The primary mandate for the incoming technical team is clear: guiding the club into the professional ranks. While Mlwane is optimistic about the quality at his disposal, he admitted that the KZN amateur league is very difficult and they will have to work hard.
“Well, that’s the main task [gaining promotion to the professional ranks]. I believe that with the players they have, we can do something amazing,” he added.
“However, the league in KZN is very difficult. There are a lot of competitive teams, but we will make sure that we are a strong team and compete against every team we face.”
RELATED STORY: The Bees FC appeal PSL DRC ruling in Humphrey Mlwane settlement dispute
