MBABANE – Tragedy has struck local football once again following reports of the passing of former Manzini Wanderers left-back Phumlani ‘Botsotso’ Jele.
A source close to the matter revealed that the legendary defender, who also had a very short stint with capital city giants Mbabane Swallows, succumbed to an undisclosed illness while receiving treatment at a local health facility. “We were shocked to hear of Botsotso’s passing, as we were hoping he would eventually defeat the illness,” the source said.
The source added that the appropriate person to comment further was his sister, Celi, who could provide full details regarding the funeral arrangements. When contacted, Celi confirmed that the former ‘Weslians’ star had indeed passed away while receiving treatment in hospital. “Yes, it is true. He passed away yesterday (Monday) afternoon after battling a long illness,” Celi said.
She stated that although the family had not yet finalised the funeral logistics, they had tentatively set Sunday as the day ‘Botsotso’ will be laid to rest. “We will meet this afternoon, and we might bury him on Sunday at Our Lady in Sihlutse,” she said.
Manzini Wanderers legend Scara Gama expressed deep sadness at the news, stating that the club was reeling from the loss. “We are deeply shocked as Manzini Wanderers by this tragic news. Our condolences go out to his family and the nation at large, as we have lost a true legend of the game,” Gama said.
The passing of Jele comes barely three months after that of skipper Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule, who died in March.
Meanwhile, Wanderers Head of Communications Sandile ‘Ntofo’ Dlamini issued an official statement confirming the tragic news. “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of our brother, friend and fellow Wanderer, Phumlani ‘Botsotso’ Jele. He was rushed to hospital on Monday, June 29, 2026, in a critical condition and sadly passed away thereafter,” the statement read.
Dlamini extended his sympathies to those affected by the loss, offering his heartfelt condolences to Jele’s family, friends, loved ones and the entire Wanderers community.
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The late former Manzini Wanderers defender Phumlani ‘Botsotso’ Jele (L) battling for the ball with former Mbabane Swallows midfielder Mancoba ‘Dunga’ Kunene, while Sandile Mdlovu watches in this undated picture. (File pic)