Today, I joined thousands of mourners to bid farewell to one the most prominent personalities ever to be known in Tshwane, Mr Alex Shakoane. Affectionately known as Mr Gold Fingers, Shakoane became synonymous with the Mamelodi Sundowns Football Club, which he had been part of and served diligently since its formative years in the early 1980s.
When I joined the City, I was also introduced to the flamboyant Alex Shakoane whose humility and love for this club I could see and hear from most of his utterances. In his early days he had proven to be an astute communicator, hence it was not surprising that he became one of the most popular public relation officers of the time.
On behalf of the City, I wish to join all the South African football lovers in sending my condolences to his family, the club and all those associated to it, and echo all the messages of support that have been shared across the country and elsewhere on the continent.
To the fans and family, we hope the death of Mr Shakoane will not be in vain, and that as the team continues their journey to conquer Africa and add the second star to their already decorated accolades, they will play their hearts out and bring the coveted title home in his honour. Robala ka Kgotso Ntate Shakoane.