Shauwn “MaMkhize” Mkhize, chairperson of Royal AM, has seen her bid to acquire Eswatini Premier League club Mbabane Highlanders collapse after missing a key deadline.
Mkhize, the flamboyant owner of suspended PSL side Royal AM, had reportedly planned to rename the Eswatini club Royal AM Eswatini.
Reports from Eswatini suggested a R20 million deal was in place, but Mkhize missed the Tuesday, July 23, 2025 deadline for the initial R5 million payment, causing the deal to fall apart.
Why has MaMkhize failed to buy Eswatini club?
A statement from the Highlanders board, quoted by Eswatini publications, confirmed, “Royal AM, led by MaMkhize, failed to meet the Tuesday, July 23, 2025 deadline to pay the first installment of R5 million for the acquisition of Mbabane Highlanders. The club wishes to formally announce that the proposed sale of Mbabane Highlanders to Royal AM has collapsed due to Royal AM’s failure to meet the deadline for the initial payment.”
“Despite mutual interest and extensive negotiations, Royal AM did not fulfill the financial commitments by the stipulated date of July 23, 2025. Consequently, the board of directors, in consultation with the club’s leadership, has decided to terminate all negotiations regarding the sale. Mbabane Highlanders will immediately resume full autonomy and control over club operations,” added the statement.
The Highlanders’ board emphasised their commitment to the club's financial stability and future success, stating they are exploring alternative strategies to strengthen the club both on and off the field. They thanked their supporters, players, and staff for their patience and understanding.
Royal AM boss will need to reassess her plans
The proposed acquisition had generated significant buzz in Eswatini over recent weeks. The failure of the deal is a setback for both parties, who had ambitions to expand their operations and brand presence.
Highlanders had expressed their desire to find a buyer who could help them become a continental force, similar to Mamelodi Sundowns.
Mkhize, meanwhile, had made clear her intention to expand her football empire internationally, mirroring the multi-club ownership model of Manchester City's City Football Group. Both parties will now need to reassess their future plans.
