Kaizer Chiefs sign Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana after Esperance exit

Kaizer Chiefs have completed the signing of Bafana Bafana international Elias Mokwana, bringing the 27-year-old back to South African football on local election day on Wednesday.

The winger joins after ending his association with Esperance Sportive de Tunis, who loaned him to Saudi Pro League club Al Hazem last season. Chiefs had been linked with Mokwana earlier in the week, shortly after the Tunisian club and player parted ways.

The move marks Mokwana’s return home following two seasons abroad. He left Sekhukhune United for Esperance Sportive de Tunis in 2024, having previously attracted reported interest from Kaizer Chiefs.

The club said his time in Tunisia and Saudi Arabia had given him valuable experience, and highlighted that background when confirming the transfer.

“Kaizer Chiefs have signed Bafana Bafana international Mokwana. The talented winger joins the club after gaining valuable experience in North Africa and the Middle East,” Chiefs said in a statement.

“The 27-year-old, who hails from KwaMhlanga in Mpumalanga, returns to South African football after spending the past two seasons abroad following his move from Sekhukhune United to Tunisian giants, Esperance Sportive de Tunis, in 2024.”

Mokwana’s arrival gives Chiefs another option in attack at a time when they have needed greater consistency from their wide players.

Luke Baartman and Asanele Velebayi have struggled to produce consistent performances at times this season, with their lack of experience also a factor. Chiefs will hope Mokwana’s time playing in North Africa and the Middle East can help strengthen the team’s attacking threat.

The club has not disclosed how long Mokwana’s contract runs. His signing is nevertheless expected to provide a timely boost as Chiefs look for a player capable of taking greater responsibility in the final third and leading from the front.

There will also be pressure on Mokwana to make an immediate impact. A number of players previously linked with Amakhosi eventually joined the club but failed to meet expectations, raising questions about whether they arrived after reaching their best.

Mokwana’s return therefore carries both opportunity and expectation. Chiefs believe his experience abroad can benefit the squad, while the winger must now show that he can translate that experience into consistent performances after returning from spells with Esperance Sportive de Tunis and Al Hazem.