Venda FC sign experienced defender Bonginkosi Makume after Baroka relegation

Bonginkosi Makume has joined Venda FC after leaving Baroka FC, giving the Motsepe Foundation Championship side an experienced defensive option ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The 30-year-old central defender was previously with Baroka, who were relegated to the ABC Motsepe League. His move to Venda keeps him in Limpopo, where he will now work under head coach Clinton Larsen.

Makume, who has also played for Maritzburg United, is expected to strengthen a Venda squad aiming to challenge for promotion this season. The club will begin the new campaign this week, with Larsen hoping the defender’s experience can help provide greater stability at the back.

The move follows a period of negotiations between Makume and Venda. He featured for the club at the pre-season Mafori Cup in Polokwane in July, although he had not yet signed a contract at that stage.

Soccer Laduma reported that discussions were still taking place when Makume appeared in the tournament. Those negotiations have now been completed, allowing the defender to formally join the club.

Makume will add experience to a squad that already includes Malcolm Jacobs and Deolin Mekoa. His arrival is part of a wider recruitment drive by Venda, who have been working to strengthen their team behind the scenes before the start of the new campaign.

The club have confirmed the signings of Cameron Carnell, Goodman Chirwa, Cohan Daniels, Douglas Mapfumo, Bongani Mpandle, Stevens Goovadia and Donald Makgetlwa.

Namibian forward Muyeka Mashiku has also joined Venda. The 25-year-old arrives after an impressive season with Gunners FC in the Namibian Premier League, where he scored 18 goals and supplied seven assists.

Those numbers will raise expectations around Mashiku, particularly after Venda struggled in front of goal last season. The club will be hoping his goals can improve their attacking output and support their promotion challenge.

For Makume, the transfer provides an immediate return to the Motsepe Foundation Championship after Baroka’s relegation. He now has the opportunity to establish himself as a key player for a Venda side that has made several additions in preparation for the 2026/27 campaign.