Orlando Pirates Mourn the Passing of Mrs Maleshoane Chakane

Orlando Pirates are mourning the loss of one of the club’s most cherished matriarchs, after the passing of Mrs Maleshoane Elizabeth “Nani” Chakane on 23 June 2026.

Mrs Chakane, the beloved wife of long-serving club figure Mr Franklin Chakane, held a special place in the Orlando Pirates family. Her death has cast a sombre mood over the Soweto giants, who have called on the wider football community to stand with the Chakane family in their grief.

In a message of condolence, the club extended its sympathies to Mr Chakane, the entire Chakane family, relatives, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by her presence. The sense of loss stretches well beyond one household; it runs through the streets of Soweto and into the stands where Pirates supporters gather.

Funeral Arrangements

A funeral service for Mrs Chakane will be held on Thursday, 2 July 2026, at the Uniting Reformed Church of South Africa in Orlando East, Soweto. The service is scheduled to begin at 09:00. After the congregation has paid its respects, the funeral procession is expected to leave the church at around 11:00 for the burial at Nasrec Cemetery.

Mourners are also being received at the family home at 1173 Jacobs Street, Protea North, Soweto, where the doors have been opened to friends, colleagues and members of the football fraternity wishing to offer comfort and support.

Orlando Pirates have urged supporters to keep the Chakane family firmly in their thoughts and prayers during this period of deep mourning, as a club and community rally around one of their own.