Kaizer Chiefs Transfers: Amakhosi hand new deal to experienced defender

Kaizer Chiefs have locked in defender Zitha Kwinika with a contract extension, ensuring the experienced centre-back remains at the club.

Kwinika was a vital part of the Amakhosi squad during the 2025/26 season, where the team finished third, before a long-term injury prematurely ended his campaign.

Prior to being sidelined, he had accumulated 25 appearances across all competitions, including the club’s run in the CAF Confederation Cup, where they were narrowly eliminated at the group stage.

A product of the Chiefs academy, Kwinika returned to Naturena in July 2022. He rejoined from Stellenbosch FC, where he had served as captain and was named the club’s Player of the Season.

Chiefs value Kwinika’s experience and leadership

Despite facing periods with limited playing time and speculation about a potential departure, Kwinika successfully revived his career at the club in the 2024-25 season under former coach Nasreddine Nabi.

An injury crisis within the squad provided him with an opportunity to reclaim a spot in the starting lineup, which ultimately led to a one-year extension.

Now, SABC reports that the 32-year-old has agreed to another new deal, keeping him at Chiefs for the upcoming season. He will play under a new head coach, who is yet to be appointed following the departures of Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef.

Kwinika is expected to be fully fit for the start of the new season. He is highly valued within the team and is considered a key senior figure, forming part of the leadership group alongside goalkeeper Brandon Petersen.