Thokozile Mnguni
ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba has donated R200 000 in his personal capacity to assist former Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba as he undergoes treatment for prostate cancer and tuberculosis (TB).
The donation was announced after Herman Mashaba and ActionSA members visited the 75-year-old football legend at his home today to offer support to him and his family.
Shakes Mashaba is currently relying on the public healthcare system while covering additional medical expenses, including medication, transport and home-based care. He is also awaiting confirmation of the stage of his prostate cancer.
“The visit comes after learning about his ailing condition due to prostate cancer. It is for this reason that we set aside time to spend with him and his family to offer support and extend well wishes as he battles the condition,” Herman Mashaba said.
He said the donation reflected his respect for the former national coach and his contribution to South African football.
“We recognise Coach Mashaba as a patriot who has contributed significantly to South Africa’s globally recognised sporting heritage. He is an inspiration to millions across our communities due to his commitment and outstanding service to the development of the nation’s robust soccer culture,” he said.
Mashaba said the former coach had earned the admiration of football supporters over several decades.
“Like many fanatics of the game, he left a lasting impression in the 1970s. During the dark days of apartheid, he made his debut at Orlando Pirates and finessed his skill to become a star player of the revered Buccaneers.”
He said the visit had given the party a better understanding of the coach’s condition and the support he requires.
“Engaging with the family provided us with a clear picture of the extent of his condition, as well as the resources and support that are critical to ensure that he recovers. Now more than ever, Coach Mashaba deserves our care, support, and appreciation during this difficult period of his life.”
ActionSA also thanked the Mashaba family for allowing the delegation to visit the former coach.
“We wish him much-needed strength on what we hope will be a successful journey to recovery and good health.”
Shakes Mashaba’s daughter, Nonhlanhla Mashaba, thanked South Africans for the support shown to the family.
“We acknowledge the visit by Mr Mashaba. He has touched us as a family and we will be able to move forward,” she said.
Shakes Mashaba is regarded as one of South Africa’s most accomplished football coaches. He played for Orlando Pirates and Moroka Swallows before moving into coaching.
He first took charge of Bafana Bafana in a caretaker role in 1992 following South Africa’s return to international football. He later served two spells as the national team’s head coach.
During his second tenure, he guided South Africa to qualification for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, ending the team’s seven-year absence from the continental tournament.
Mashaba also coached South Africa’s Under-17, Under-20, Under-23, and Olympic teams.
He played a key role in developing several players who later represented Bafana Bafana at senior level, earning widespread recognition as one of the country’s most respected football coaches.
Those wishing to contribute towards Shakes Mashaba’s recovery can make a donation using the following banking details:
Name of account: Shakes Mashaba Foundation
Bank: First National Bank
Account number: 63216558156
Branch code: 251141
Branch name: Clearwater Mall
SWIFT code: FIRNZAJJ