Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates might be archrivals on the field of play but the two giants of South African football put aside their rivalry to donate R1m each to the South African National Defence Force Trust Fund.

The donation was televised live on SABC1, Soccerzone on the 31st of July 2013.

The announcement was made by the Chairmen of the two Soweto football giants, Mr Kaizer Motaung and Dr Irvin Khoza. Brigadier General Xolani Mabanga, Director Defence Corporate Communication represented SANDF to accept the R2m cheque.

SANDF established the trust for the following reasons: “Uniformed members or civilians participating in military operations or other military activities are more vulnerable to being killed or seriously injured in such activities than members in the non-military environment.

Normal members of the public who for some reason find themselves in an area where these activities take place are also subject to unintentional being killed or seriously injured. Many of these members leave behind minors who still have to be educated,” said Mabanga.

Kaizer Chiefs’ Executive Chairman, Mr Kaizer Motaung commended the soldiers for their hard work and putting their lives at risk by guarding the SA borders and taking part in other peace keeping responsibilities in the continent.

"We are pleased as a Club to donate to the trust. We think this Trust is a worthy cause and needs our support. Part of our mission as Kaizer Chiefs is to respond to the community needs and this is one of the actions to demonstrate that.

We trust that other entities will also follow to assist in this regard. Education is key to nation building hence our commitment to contribute wherever possible,” said Motaung.

The purpose of the Trust will be to provide financial assistance for primary, secondary and tertiary education of the identified dependants of the deceased or seriously injured who were the bread winners of these families.

The beneficiaries will be the dependants of SANDF members killed or severely injured subsequent to 27 April 1994 whilst on official duty.