Kaizer Chiefs Sign Bafana Bafana Winger Elias Mokwana

Kaizer Chiefs officially announced the signing of Bafana Bafana international Elias Mokwana on November 4, 2026. The 27-year-old winger joins the Soweto-based club as a free agent, marking his return to South African football following a two-year period playing abroad in North Africa and the Middle East.

Mokwana, a native of KwaMhlanga in Mpumalanga, previously made a name for himself as a standout player for Sekhukhune United. During his two-season tenure there, he recorded 65 appearances, contributing six goals and seven assists. His performance in the Betway Premiership earned him national recognition, leading to his senior debut for the South African national team against Andorra in March 2024.

The winger’s international experience includes a successful spell with Tunisian powerhouse Espérance Sportive de Tunis, which he joined in 2024. During the 2024/25 campaign, he helped the club secure a domestic league and cup double, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 25 matches. He also participated in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and represented South Africa in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Following his time in Tunisia, Mokwana spent the 2025/26 season on loan at the Saudi Arabian club Al Hazem, where he played 24 matches in the Saudi Pro League. He became a free agent in September 2026 after reaching a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with Espérance, clearing the path for his move to Naturena.

For Mokwana, joining the Amakhosi represents the fulfillment of a long-held ambition. The player noted that he had been linked to the club during his time at Sekhukhune United, but previous negotiations did not materialize. "I grew up supporting Amakhosi, I first heard that they were interested in me when I was at Sekhukhune. Instead of going to Esperance, I was supposed to come here. Unfortunately some obstacles prevented it from happening at the time," he explained.

Reflecting on the finalization of the deal, Mokwana expressed his excitement about joining the team. "For me, it is a dream come true. I have always wanted to prove myself in this team and to play a part in bringing some trophies to the club," he stated. He added that he shared the news immediately with his family, describing the experience as a moment of pure joy.

The club management views Mokwana as a significant addition to their attacking options, citing his pace, creativity, and international pedigree. As the team looks to address its recent trophy drought, the coaching staff hopes the winger's experience in competitive foreign leagues will provide an immediate boost to their squad's performance for the remainder of the season.