How Chiefs landed Mokwana two years after he chose Tunisia
JOHANNESBURG — Kaizer Chiefs have signed Bafana Bafana winger Elias Mokwana on a free transfer, two years after he chose Espérance de Tunis over a possible move to Naturena. His release from the Tunisian club in September gave Chiefs a second chance to sign him. The 27-year-old returns to South African football with a Tunisian league and cup double and 24 Saudi Pro League appearances behind him.
Chiefs were interested in Mokwana when he left Sekhukhune United in August 2024. After a season in Tunisia and another on loan at Al Hazem in Saudi Arabia, he and Espérance agreed to end a contract that had been due to run until June 2027. A proposed move to Morocco’s Wydad Athletic Club then fell through over registration issues, according to SABC Sport. Mokwana returned to Mpumalanga while he considered his options.
What Mokwana brings to the Chiefs attack
Chiefs have recruited a winger who can carry the ball at defenders and has scored on a cup-final stage. Mokwana found the net against Stade Tunisien as Espérance won the Tunisian Super Cup, and he represented the club at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. His loan at Al Hazem then gave him a season of regular league football before Chiefs renewed their interest.
Mokwana arrives days after Pule Mmodi scored Chiefs’ equaliser in their 2–1 Soweto derby defeat to Orlando Pirates, Amakhosi’s first league loss of the season. His pace gives Chiefs another option out wide as they look to respond. The club confirmed the signing on Wednesday without announcing the length of his contract or a debut date.
Anyone with additional information can contact the press desk at press@townpress.co.za or drop a tip.