BY VUYISWA MABILA
MBABANE – In a recent communication to supporters and stakeholders, Mbabane Swallows Football Club has clarified ownership and the way forward following recent confusion and misinformation regarding the club’s management.
The club, through a statement signed by President Absalom Mvana Ngwenya, stressed that Mbabane Swallows does not belong to the Gamedze family and never has. The statement comes amid rumors suggesting that the club was being controlled by the family, which the leadership describes as “unfounded.”
“Mbabane Swallows does not belong to the Gamedze family and never has. This noise around Mbabane Swallows Football Club being owned by Mbabane Swallows Pty is unfounded.” Reads a statement from their press release.
The President highlighted that the club was formed by the late Mbabane Swallows Chairman, Mr. Victor Gamedze, solely to raise capital for the club. While Mr. Gamedze held 100% ownership of Mbabane Swallows Pty and acted as the sole director, the ownership of the football club itself has always resided with the Mbabane Swallows Supporters, as clearly articulated in the club’s constitution.
Ngwenya further clarified that any person claiming ownership of Mbabane Swallows FC must approach the courts to substantiate their claim, warning that false claims only serve to tarnish the club’s name and create unnecessary confusion.
“In a statement issued on the 10th of January 2025, we clearly articulated that any other person who claim to own Mbabane Swallows FC, they must approach the courts to lay that claim, failing which they must refrain from tarnishing the name of the club and causing unnecessary confusion and tension.” Continued the statement.
The club is engaging key stakeholders including sponsors, the Management Committee, and the NSC to revise the club’s structure and ensure clear communication to all parties. One key proposal is to allow supporters to hold at least 10% of the club’s capital structure and to ensure board representation, giving them a voice in decision-making.
The club has reassured supporters that all these measures aim to protect its legacy and ensure transparency in its operations, maintaining the trust and involvement of the fans who have always been at the heart of Mbabane Swallows.
