ActionSA president Herman Mashaba has pledged to donate R200,000 to support former Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba as the South African football icon continues his battle with prostate cancer and tuberculosis.
The donation comes after Shakes’ children made an emotional public appeal for financial assistance, revealing that their father is bedridden and struggling with mounting medical expenses after losing his medical aid. The family has since established the Shakes Mashaba Foundation to help cover the costs of his treatment, home-based care and essential medical equipment.
Mashaba visited the family’s home this week, where he met with the legendary coach and his children. After witnessing the extent of the former national team mentor’s condition, he committed to making the donation in his personal capacity.
“I felt it was necessary that we help the little we can,” Herman Mashaba said. “I’ve told the family this afternoon I will deposit R200,000 into the account to ensure we see a full recovery for Shakes Mashaba and help take the financial strain off them.” He also appealed to South Africans to contribute whatever they can to support the football legend during his recovery.
The former Johannesburg mayor described Shakes Mashaba as a patriot who dedicated his life to South African football and inspired generations through his commitment to developing the game.
Speaking on behalf of the family, daughter Nonhlanhla Mashaba expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received since going public with her father’s condition.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who has reached out, prayed for us and offered support during this difficult time. This journey has not been easy, but every act of kindness gives us hope,” she said, adding that the family remains committed to ensuring their father receives the care he deserves.
The family’s appeal previously revealed that Shakes Mashaba’s medical aid had lapsed because he could no longer afford the premiums, forcing him to rely on the public healthcare system while his medical bills continued to grow. They have also appealed for donations of groceries, hygiene products, medical supplies, a walker and home-care assistance.
Shakes Mashaba is regarded as one of South Africa’s most respected football figures. He enjoyed a distinguished coaching career, guiding the national Under-17, Under-20 and Under-23 teams before taking charge of Bafana Bafana, where he helped restore pride in the national side during his tenure. His contribution to South African football has earned him widespread respect across the sporting fraternity.
Herman Mashaba said the football legend now deserves the same support he spent decades giving to the country.
“Now more than ever, Coach Mashaba deserves our care, support and appreciation during this difficult period of his life,” he said.
Cece Smith 