Former South African footballer Thabiso Rammile has honoured veteran coach Ephraim “Shakes” Mashaba, acknowledging the important contribution he made to his football development and career. Rammile’s tribute highlights the lasting influence Mashaba has had on players who worked under him during his long coaching journey.

The message comes as Mashaba continues to face serious health difficulties. In June 2026, Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile visited the former Bafana Bafana coach at his residence and expressed hope for his recovery. Government representatives also called on the public to support Mashaba and his family during this challenging period.

Rammile experienced Mashaba’s coaching first-hand when he represented South Africa’s Under-23 team at the prestigious Toulon tournament in France in 2002. The former defender was among the young footballers who received an opportunity to compete internationally under Mashaba’s leadership.

That experience formed an important part of Rammile’s football journey, exposing him to a higher level of competition and helping him develop his abilities. He later played for several South African clubs, including Maritzburg United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Bloemfontein Celtic and Thanda Royal Zulu. He also earned opportunities to represent the senior national team, Bafana Bafana.

Meanwhile, concern about Mashaba’s condition has generated widespread support from different sections of South African society. His daughter, Nonhlanhla Mashaba, previously sought assistance as the family struggled with medical expenses and the demands of his treatment.

TimesLIVE reported in June that Mashaba was receiving treatment for tuberculosis while also facing a prostate cancer diagnosis. In July, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba pledged R200,000 to help support the veteran coach’s recovery.

Throughout his career, Shakes Mashaba has been recognised for developing young footballers and working with South Africa’s national teams. Several players who passed through his teams later established themselves in professional football.

Source:

https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2104983354948862121