Mamelodi Sundowns’ NEC Meeting to Drive Supporter Engagement

Author: John Aliu

Optimism and unison were the order of the day when the Mamelodi Sundowns Supporters National Executive Committee (NEC) gathered for their annual meeting with a clear agenda to strengthen the Club’s supporter base and ensure that stadiums are packed with passionate Supporters as the business end of the season approaches.

The meeting brought together branch representatives from across South Africa and beyond, with international delegates from Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana, Swaziland and Namibia also in attendance. Their mission was to strategize, energize and reinforce their commitment to the Brazilians.

Sabelo Gwebu, Secretary General of the Eswatini Branch, emphasized the importance of such gatherings in uniting supporters and driving growth.

“This meeting is all about updating one another on developments within our various provinces, tracking the growth of each province and addressing the challenges we face. More importantly, it is about encouraging every Masandawana supporter to go to stadiums and cheer on our boys to victory in every competition they participate in,” Gwebu stated passionately.

Gwebu also had a special message for the players, urging them to make history once again:
“We would like to encourage our players to go all out and bring home that second star by winning the CAF Champions League. It has been a long time since we last lifted that prestigious trophy and we believe it is time to reclaim our continental glory. At the very least, we would love to see them win another domestic trophy in addition to the league title.”

Terror Mthiba, representing the KwaZulu-Natal Branches, was delighted with the outcomes of the meeting, especially the opportunity to engage with Chairman Thlopie Motsepe.

“Everything went well, and it was great to see the Chairman after such a long time. We discussed various topics and achieved a lot as a collective. One of the key points of discussion was finding new ways to further boost game attendance and ensure even more supporters fill the stadiums. The Chairman emphasized the importance of rallying our fellow Sundowns Supporters, especially as we approach the crucial stages of the season.”

Mthiba emphasized the importance of learning from other provinces to strengthen their branch’s mobilization efforts.

“A key takeaway from the meeting was the importance of encouraging more supporters to attend games, particularly during critical moments of the season. Other branches shared valuable strategies on how they recruit and retain supporters, and we intend to implement some of those ideas in our Province.”
Ernest Modise, representing Gauteng North, highlighted some of the pressing challenges faced by supporters’ branches.

“Many of the challenges raised were shared across different provinces and this meeting provided a great platform to address them collectively. Discussions around improving membership card processes and strengthening branch coordination were insightful. Another important topic was enhancing our presence to showcase our commitment and also encourage the players to perform at their best.”

Despite the work that lies ahead, Modise remained optimistic about the way forward.
“One of the biggest lessons I learned from other branches is the importance of proper mobilization. Several effective strategies were discussed, and I believe implementing them will help us grow our support base and align our efforts with the Club’s vision.”

Excellent Thabethe, chairperson of the Institutions Branch, stressed the importance of having well-structured supporter groups, particularly in institutions.
“Mamelodi Sundowns has a presence across the country, including the existing international branches and others that will be launched soon. It is important to establish and maintain solid structures in institutions of higher learning to achieve our collective goals.”

Thabethe also emphasized the power of song and unity in boosting both supporters and players.

“Singing brings energy to the stands and transfers that energy directly to the players on the field. Many branches spoke about how they recruit new supporters and introduce fresh faces to the stands. It is through these efforts that we will continue to grow and make Sundowns the most well-supported club in Africa.”

With renewed strategies, a shared commitment and a rallying call to all supporters, the branches left the NEC gathering with a clear mission—to fill the stadiums, energize the players and ensure that Mamelodi Sundowns continues its dominance both locally and on the continent.

The message from the branches to all Sundowns supporters is simple: Get to the stadium, bring your energy and let us make history together! 💛💙

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