South Africa national team defender Bafana Bafana, Olwetu Makhanya, is enjoying life in Scotland. He was recently spotted with South African veteran artist Mara Lowe in Glasgow during the opening ceremony of the Nelson Mandela statue.
Makhanya is achieving excellent results in the Scottish Premiership. When he is not playing on the field, he interacts with high-ranking officials from the High Commission of South Africa.
In September, Makhanya achieved outstanding results, helping his team win all four matches, conceding only one goal and keeping three 'clean sheets'. His defensive performances earned him the Player of the Month award, while coach Derek McInnes received the Coach of the Month award.
The 22-year-old footballer emphasized that success is the result of collective efforts that allowed his team to remain solid defensively and effective offensively. After receiving the Player of the Month award in September, Makhanya shared his views with RangersTV, recalling his recent performances.
Makhanya's brilliant performances for Rangers attracted the attention of the Bafana Bafana national team, leading to his call-up during the recent FIFA international break. He played a key role, starting both AFCON qualifiers when South Africa defeated Guinea 2–1 and Eritrea 5–0.
He noted that the international break was very pleasant and successful. 'We managed to achieve two good victories, so we did great. It was a wonderful experience,' he explained. 'Representing my country is always what I strive for, so the opportunity to set that as a goal and achieve it is very rewarding.'
Furthermore, Makhanya has taken on an unofficial role as an ambassador for South Africa in Scotland following his move from the United States mid-year.
On Friday, Makhanya was invited to the unveiling ceremony of the £180,000 (approximately 3.9 million Rand) bronze statue of Nelson Mandela at the Nelson Mandela Place in Glasgow. This event marked the 33rd anniversary of the late South African president's visit to the city to accept the title of Honorary Citizen. Notable figures attended the event, including the High Commissioner of South Africa in the UK, Kingsley Mababolo, Glasgow Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren, and Brian Filling, Chairman of the Nelson Mandela Memorial Foundation in Scotland.
Makhanya was clearly delighted to attend the event and expressed his gratitude on Instagram: 'A special day among great minds celebrating an extraordinary legacy. Sincere thanks to the High Commissioner for the kind invitation.' During the event, veteran South African artist Mara Lowe, who originally performed for Mandela during his historic visit in 1993, sang 'Circle of Life' and the South African national anthem accompanied by a female drumming ensemble from Glasgow.