Wits University recognises Kaizer Motaung’s lifelong contribution to South African football and community development.
Zuko Komisa

Kaizer Motaung, the esteemed founder and chairman of Kaizer Chiefs, has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Commerce degree by Wits University.
The prestigious accolade recognises Motaung’s profound commitment to advancing education and football, as well as his dedication to uplifting disadvantaged youth.
This latest honour follows a similar recognition in 2022, when the University of Cape Town conferred an honorary doctorate in Social Sciences upon him.
Motaung, who established Kaizer Chiefs at the age of 27, expressed immense pride in his contributions to the well-being of ordinary South Africans.
“I’m very proud and happy to be part of this community,” he stated.
Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Wits University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, praised Motaung’s life as an inspiring narrative in itself.
“Take a chance in life, be a creator. Dr Motaung’s life story is in itself a message,” Vilakazi remarked, emphasising Motaung’s trailblazing spirit.
Kaizer Chiefs Chairman, Dr. Kaizer Motaung, has been conferred a second honorary doctorate—this time by @WitsUniversity's Faculty of Commerce, Law & Management
— Kaizer Chiefs (@KaizerChiefs) July 16, 2025
A fitting tribute to decades of visionary leadership in SA business and sport
Congratulations Chairman!#WitsForGood pic.twitter.com/2ndmTV5Iyg
Motaung extended his gratitude to the “Amakhosi faithful,” acknowledging their unwavering passion, loyalty, and dedication.
He encouraged young people to embrace calculated risks in their lives.
This year marks 55 years since Motaung founded Kaizer Chiefs, underscoring his enduring legacy as a trailblazer whose contributions to society are widely celebrated.
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