South Africa’s most recognisable sports supporter, Mama Joy — whose real name is Joy Chauke — has once again captured the attention of football fans and the sporting community with her latest show of allegiance.
This time, her focus is on MaMkhize’s newly established soccer club, Mbalane Highlanders AM FC, based in eSwatini.
Mama Joy’s endorsement comes just months after the dramatic exit of Royal AM, the South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) team previously associated with MaMkhize, from the league.
As an unofficial ambassador and the club’s most passionate fan, Mama Joy had been a visible and vocal supporter of Royal AM, and the club’s expulsion left her publicly expressing a sense of loss and “no home” within the PSL.
Over the weekend, MaMkhize confirmed that she had signed a three-year deal to become president of Mbalane Highlanders AM FC, a move that marks a new chapter in her sporting ventures.
The announcement excited many supporters who see this as a fresh start for MaMkhize’s football ambitions beyond South Africa’s borders.
In a recent post on her social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Mama Joy enthusiastically declared her readiness to support the new club.
She wrote: “Mbabane Highlanders Am FC, we are ready to cross the border to Eswatini. Passports are ready.”
This statement not only signals her commitment to follow and back the club but also hints at her willingness to travel and be physically present in support of MaMkhize’s new project.
In another post, Mama Joy celebrated MaMkhize’s return to football with the words: “Back with a bang.”
This succinct message encapsulates the renewed energy and optimism surrounding the new club and MaMkhize’s leadership role.
Mama Joy’s public support is significant given her history with Royal AM.
Only a few months ago, she shared an emotional farewell to the now-defunct PSL club, which she affectionately called “her family.”
In a heartfelt post, she expressed gratitude to MaMkhize for the opportunity to be Royal AM’s “number one fan.”
She acknowledged the dignity and love with which MaMkhize treated her, and she thanked fellow supporters for their warmth and camaraderie.
However, the closure of Royal AM left Mama Joy feeling displaced within the South African football landscape.
She openly admitted that she now faced “no home” in the PSL, a poignant reflection of the personal connection she had forged with the club and its community.
Despite rumours and speculation, Mama Joy has consistently denied being on MaMkhize’s payroll during her time as Royal AM’s unofficial ambassador.
In a candid interview on Robert Marawa’s show, Marawa Sports Worldwide, she clarified her relationship with MaMkhize.
She confirmed that while she was friends with the businesswoman and frequently attended Royal AM matches, she was not financially compensated for her support.
When asked directly if MaMkhize paid her for her ambassadorship, Mama Joy responded with a mix of humour and honesty.
She said, “No. People are going to say, ‘You chowed Mamkhize’s money’. I don’t know what to say!”
She emphasised that her dedication stemmed from a genuine love of the game and loyalty to the club rather than financial incentives.
This authenticity has endeared Mama Joy to many fans across South Africa, making her a beloved figure in the football community.
Her passion and unwavering support have transcended typical fan behaviour, elevating her to a symbol of dedication and spirit in South African sports culture.
Now, with MaMkhize’s move to lead Mbalane Highlanders AM FC in eSwatini, Mama Joy’s readiness to back the new club suggests that her loyalty extends beyond geography and league boundaries.
Her declaration that “passports are ready” indicates a preparedness to follow MaMkhize’s football journey wherever it leads.
The establishment of Mbalane Highlanders AM FC represents a strategic expansion for MaMkhize, who has been a prominent figure in South African football and business.
By taking on the presidency of an eSwatini club, she is broadening her influence and opening new avenues for sporting success in the Southern African region.
This move also reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of football in Africa, where cross-border collaborations and club ownership are becoming more common.
For fans and stakeholders, it offers exciting opportunities for talent development, regional competitions, and enhanced visibility for the sport.
Mama Joy’s role in this new chapter could be pivotal.As a high-profile supporter with a strong social media presence and a genuine connection to MaMkhize’s football projects, she can help galvanise fan support and bring attention to Mbalane Highlanders AM FC.
Her involvement may also inspire other supporters and community members to engage with the club, fostering a vibrant fan base that transcends national borders.
The question now arises: will Mama Joy’s support translate into active participation in the club’s activities and matches in eSwatini?
Given her past enthusiasm and willingness to travel, many believe she will be a visible and vocal presence at games, rallies, and promotional events.
Such support is invaluable for a new club seeking to build its identity and reputation.
A passionate ambassador like Mama Joy can create a sense of belonging and excitement among fans, players, and management alike.
Beyond the sporting realm, Mama Joy’s story also touches on broader themes of loyalty, resilience, and community in South African football.
Her journey from Royal AM’s “number one fan” to a supporter of a new club in a neighbouring country illustrates the dynamic nature of football fandom and the deep emotional ties fans forge with their teams.
It also highlights the challenges faced by clubs and supporters when teams are disbanded or expelled, and the need for avenues to maintain connections and continue supporting the sport.
As MaMkhize’s Mbalane Highlanders AM FC prepares for its upcoming seasons, the football community will be watching closely.
The club’s success will depend not only on management and players but also on the strength of its fan engagement and community support.
Mama Joy’s endorsement is an encouraging sign that the club has a passionate advocate ready to champion its cause.
Her presence could help bridge gaps between South African and eSwatini football fans, creating a regional fan culture united by shared passion and enthusiasm.
In addition, the media attention generated by Mama Joy’s support may attract sponsorships, partnerships, and investment opportunities for Mbalane Highlanders AM FC.
Positive publicity can be a powerful tool in the competitive world of football, helping clubs secure resources needed for growth and development.
Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how Mama Joy balances her role as a fan and ambassador with the evolving landscape of African football.
Her journey reflects the potential for supporters to influence and shape the sport beyond mere spectatorship.
For MaMkhize, having a loyal and high-profile supporter like Mama Joy could prove advantageous as she navigates the challenges of running a football club in a new country.
Building trust and enthusiasm among fans is critical, and Mama Joy’s endorsement lends credibility and warmth to the club’s image.
In conclusion, Mama Joy’s declaration that “passports are ready” is more than a catchy phrase — it is a powerful signal of her commitment to stand by MaMkhize’s new football venture in eSwatini.
Her support embodies the passion, loyalty, and spirit that define football fandom in South Africa and beyond.
As Mbalane Highlanders AM FC embarks on this exciting journey, the combined energy of MaMkhize’s leadership and Mama Joy’s unwavering backing could set the stage for a promising future.
Fans and stakeholders alike will be eager to witness how this partnership unfolds and what successes lie ahead for the club and its supporters.
For now, all eyes remain on Mama Joy and MaMkhize as they prepare to make their mark on the football landscape of Southern Africa.
With passports ready and hearts full of hope, the journey has just begun.
