McKenzie Addresses Bafana Bonus Rumors Amid “Strange” Camp
Despite Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams admitting that the national team camp has not been entirely happy ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), describing it as “weird”, Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has moved to clear the air surrounding the situation.
McKenzie has confirmed that the issue of player bonuses ahead of the continental showpiece has been resolved, stressing that agreements with the players are separate from any incentives the government may provide.
Concerns about the mood in the camp surfaced during a recent press conference addressed by Williams, who openly acknowledged that preparations for AFCON have not been smooth.
Speaking on SABC Sport after South Africa’s friendly victory over Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday, the Bafana captain revealed that the build-up had been challenging.
“Obviously, it’s been a strange camp — very stop-start, with players coming in and out for obvious reasons,” said Williams.
His comments were echoed by AFCON 1996 winner Doctor Khumalo, who also noted that the camp had not been ideal while offering analysis during his touchline duties on SABC Sport.
Despite the disruptions, Williams insisted that the team had managed to remain focused on the task at hand.
“It’s been unusual, but we’ve still managed to get a lot of work done. That’s the most important thing, and I believe the boys are ready for AFCON,” said Williams, who is set to feature in his third AFCON tournament for Bafana Bafana.
The captain also highlighted a noticeable shift in public sentiment compared to previous tournaments.
“We have the support of the country now, unlike the last time we played at AFCON. The fans are behind us, we can feel it, and hopefully that support will give us extra motivation throughout the tournament.”
Amid growing speculation, McKenzie took to social media to address concerns surrounding bonus payments, dismissing claims of unresolved disputes.
“We’re seeing lots of unnecessary and incorrect speculation about AFCON bonuses,” McKenzie stated.
“Player bonuses have already been agreed, separate from what we as government are giving. Right now, all we need to do is rally behind the players and the team. We’re winning this Cup!”
Bafana Bafana, who claimed a bronze medal at the previous AFCON, are placed in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt and Zimbabwe. The squad is set to depart South Africa for Morocco on Wednesday.
South Africa will open their AFCON campaign against Angola on Monday in Marrakech, before facing eight-time champions Egypt on Boxing Day in Agadir. They will conclude their group-stage matches against Zimbabwe, returning to Marrakech.
As the tournament draws closer, attention now turns from off-field concerns to performances on the pitch, with Bafana Bafana hoping to build on their recent continental progress.
