Who Is Eugene Zwane? Meet the Father of Samkelo Zwane and Orlando Pirates Legend

Eugene Zwane is a name that holds great respect in South African football. Known for his time as a talented midfielder, he played for clubs like Jomo Cosmos, SuperSport United, and most famously, Orlando Pirates. Beyond his success on the pitch, Eugene is also recognized as the proud father of Samkelo Zwane, who plays for the Kaizer Chiefs.

Eugene’s journey from football star to businessman shows his adaptability, discipline, and deep love for both his family and the game.

Who Is Eugene Zwane? Early Life and Background

Eugene Zwane was born and raised in South Africa during a time when football was one of the few outlets of expression and pride for many young Black South Africans. Details about his exact birthplace and childhood are not publicly available, but what is clear is that Eugene grew up with a passion for football.

This passion led him to pursue a professional football career during the 1980s and 1990s, when South African football was going through major transformation after apartheid.

Football Career: The Orlando Pirates Years

Eugene began his professional football career with Jomo Cosmos, one of the most competitive clubs in South African football. He quickly gained attention for his powerful left foot and calm presence in midfield.

He later joined Orlando Pirates, one of South Africa’s most loved and historic football clubs. In 1995, Eugene was part of the Pirates squad that ended the club’s 27-year league title drought, a major moment in the team’s history.

This victory helped re-establish Orlando Pirates as a dominant force in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Zwane’s control, passing ability, and football intelligence made him a key figure in the team.

Eugene also had a short spell with SuperSport United, another well-known PSL club, before eventually retiring from professional football.

Fatherhood and Family Life

Eugene Zwane is the father of Samkelo Zwane, a rising star currently playing as a midfielder for the Kaizer Chiefs senior team. Samkelo originally tried out for Orlando Pirates, but logistical challenges prevented him from continuing with the team.

In an interview, Eugene explained: “I did enroll him once at Pirates, but there were issues with transport because Pirates were training in Mayfair and he was studying at King’s College. It was costly and inconvenient, so it didn’t work out.”

Despite the switch, Eugene has been a constant source of support for his son. On Samkelo’s 22nd birthday (February 27, 2025), Eugene posted a heartfelt birthday message to him on Instagram.

Not much is publicly known about Eugene’s wife, and he keeps most of his family life private.

Post-Football Career: From SABC to Zwane Meat Company

After retiring from football, Eugene Zwane didn’t slow down. He transitioned into the corporate world and joined the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). There, he climbed the ranks and eventually became General Manager of Sales.

However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic in September 2020 that Eugene took a major step into entrepreneurship. Feeling restless during lockdown, he launched the Zwane Meat Company, a business focused on meat processing and hospitality.

He admitted that he had no formal training in hospitality: “This was a forced investment. I came into this business with very little knowledge, but I’ve learned a lot.”

Today, his business operates in Johannesburg and serves customers throughout Gauteng.

Relationship with Arthur Zwane

Eugene Zwane is a distant cousin of Arthur Zwane, another South African football legend. Arthur is best known for his long career at Kaizer Chiefs, where he played as a speedy midfielder and later transitioned into coaching.

Arthur and Eugene have occasionally appeared together at football-related events. In June 2025, they were photographed side-by-side at a community youth football day, showing their shared commitment to grassroots football.

Media and Football Advocacy

Eugene Zwane remains active in the football world. He manages the Orlando Pirates Legends squad and is a frequent guest on sports commentary shows. In February 2023, he appeared on MSW with Robert Marawa, where he discussed the future of South African football and the importance of investing in local talent.

He has also spoken out about:

• Poor funding for local clubs

• The lack of football infrastructure

• The need for youth development programs

Trivia and Quick Facts

• 🏅 Position: Midfielder

• 🏠 Current Residence: Johannesburg, South Africa

• 👨‍👦 Son: Samkelo Zwane (Kaizer Chiefs midfielder)

• 👨‍💼 Business: Founder of Zwane Meat Company

• 🎓 Corporate Experience: Former SABC General Manager of Sales

• 📺 Media: Football analyst and speaker on national radio and TV

• 📖 Advocacy: Strong supporter of South African football development

Eugene Zwane is more than just a football legend. He is a proud father, a successful businessman, and a voice for change in South African sports. His influence goes beyond his years on the pitch. Through his business, media appearances, and mentorship, he continues to shape the future of football in the country.

As his son Samkelo rises through the ranks at Kaizer Chiefs, Eugene’s legacy only grows stronger.