The Kaizer Chiefs Family would like to wish Dr. Nelson Mandela a Happy Birthday as he turns ninety-five (95) years old on this day.

Nelson Mandela, an international icon, celebrated all over South Africa and worldwide.

Executive Chairman, Kaizer Motaung wished South Africa’s first black president, a happy birthday; “I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Board of Directors, Management, Technical and Playing Staff, the Staff and the multitudes of Kaizer Chiefs supporters to wish Madiba a Happy Birthday.

“On this day we want to thank ‘Tata’ for inspiration and motivation. He is the symbol of hope and humanity and we will always honour him for the contribution he has made not only to South Africa but to the world. We are fortunate as a generation to have lived at the same time as this great man. Our prayers remain with him in his recovery as we celebrate this special day,” added Motaung.

Club captain, Itumeleng Khune joined the Club Executive Chairman and millions around the world by sending a birthday wish to the Nobel Prize Winner: “I would like to, on behalf of the players, to wish ‘Tata’ a Happy Birthday. I remember while playing for the Development side hearing that he was at the Village for the official opening and later as years went by I saw the historic pictures."

“It was my dream to meet him and it finally happened in 2006 before we played Manchester United in the Vodacom Challenge.I managed to meet him a few times after that, but no words can describe the feeling of meeting Dr. Mandela."

“While in camp with the national team we were consistently on the internet following his progress. We hope that he will be discharged soon from the hospital to be with his family. We cannot thank him enough for the sacrifices he has made to give us a better life; through our actions we can contribute by giving back to our communities,” added the visibly emotional Khune.

Mandela’s birthday, July 18, was declared Nelson Mandela International Day by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009 in recognition of his contribution to the culture of peace and freedom.

Ukhule ungakhokhobi Madiba, Sopitsho, Ngqolomsila, Yem-yem, Vela Bambentsele…Thamb'elihlabayo lihlaba abamzondayo! Ah Dalibhunga!