Search Results

Orlando Pirates and leading global sportswear brand adidas present the official Home and Away jersey for the 24/25 season as an ode to the “Father of Soweto”.  It is often said that the team jersey is a symbol of the supporters it represents - their history, image, and culture. Evolved into a potent medium for conveying narratives and expressing identity, football jersey design demonstrates the intricate interplay between aesthetics, symbolism, and functionality. While the world continues to stream forward, never before has there been more value in honouring the past. This season we see Orlando Pirates pay tribute to one of its forefathers, championing the club’s rich history.  James Sofasonke  Mpanza, born in 1889, was instrumental in forming Orlando Pirates in 1937. His vision and leadership laid the foundation for what has become one of the most successful and beloved football clubs in South Africa. “adidas has long championed the belief that through sport, we have the power to change lives,” shared Kate Woods, Senior Brand Director of adidas.  “This ethos resonates deeply with the legacy of James Mpanza, a revered figure in South African football. Mpanza, often hailed as the "Father of Soweto," understood the transformative potential of sport, particularly football, in uniting communities, fostering youth development, and instilling hope in the face of adversity.”  “One of the most enduring images of James Mpanza is his ride through Soweto on horseback,” said Bob Maphosa, adidas Football Sports Marketing. “This powerful symbol of leadership and defiance became an emblem of his commitment to the people. On horseback, Mpanza would rally the community, and advocate for their rights, cementing his iconic image, dedication, and courage.”  Thandi Merafe, Media & PR Manager of Orlando Pirates, expressed their  admiration for Mpanza, stating, “James Mpanza’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of our club. His dedication to improving the lives of those around him and his pioneering spirit in founding Orlando Pirates are a testament to his character and vision. We are honoured to celebrate his life and continue his mission of fostering unity and striving for excellence.” The trailblazers who established Orlando Pirates envisioned a football club that would excel on the field and serve as a beacon of hope and pride for its supporters. The club of today, marked by significant achievements and continual progression, showcases a remarkable journey of growth from its humble beginnings. This progression is a tribute to the founders' pioneering spirits and the unwavering commitment of the fans who have been part of the Pirates family over the decades. The Orlando Pirates 24/25 offering consists of two new performance-driven jersey designs. Rooted in the club’s DNA, the Home jersey features the legendary Orlando Pirates logo and a black, white, and red colour palette, presenting a sleek and forward-facing aesthetic. In celebration of culture and community, the Away jersey symbolises diversity through colour and introduces a seasonal green tone.  Crafted from 100% recycled materials, the new jersey merges sustainability with cutting-edge innovation developed by adidas, including moisture-wicking AEROREADY and Climalite’s apparel technology. Designed to keep athletes cool and dry, the features effectively manage perspiration distribution and enhance airflow. The jersey is finished off with the James Sofasonke  Mpanza back-neck sign-off. Orlando Pirates 24/25 jerseys will be available on 22 July at 09:00 online at adidas.co.za/orlando_pirates  and Orlando Pirates Shop and available on 25 July in-store at selected adidas and retail outlets. Available in men’s, women’s, and kids sizes. Players will debut the 24/25 jersey 03 August 2024. “As we celebrate our achievements and look towards the future, we remain deeply grateful to the founders for their invaluable contributions. Their legacy inspires us to strive for excellence, both on and off the pitch, ensuring that the Orlando Pirates' tradition of greatness endures for generations to come,” added Thandi Merafe. For further information please visit a didas.com/football   or follow @adidasza on Instagram or Twitter to join.

A charming and charismatic member of the National Zoo community who has entertained, enthralled and educated thousands Charley, the adult African elephant bull who has been a cherished resident at the National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria for over two decades, is retiring. This is the announcement today of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the organisation responsible for managing the Zoo. “The decision was made more than a year ago to retire Charley. Among a number of factors that were considered was his advanced age,” says Nontsikelelo Mpulo, Director of Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation at SANBI. “Potential host facilities responded to a call for expressions of interest about providing a retirement home for Charley. Having interrogated the responses, the proposal from the EMS Foundation and Shambala Private Game Reserve to accommodate Charley in his retirement was approved.” Shambala Private Game Reserve, situated in the Waterberg region of Limpopo province, will be Charley’s new home. The reserve has committed to a comprehensive relocation plan, outlining the capture, transport, and integration of Charley into its facility. Shambala will also provide regular health reports to SANBI for at least a year following his arrival, ensuring continued oversight and care. Charley will initially be kept by himself at a holding facility while he adjusts to his new living conditions. It is hoped that he will eventually be integrated into Shambala’s resident elephant herd. Charley’s relocation has started. “Charley is a well-loved resident of the National Zoological Garden. He arrived at the NZG from years in a circus environment in July 2001 and has been with the zoo for 23 years,” explains Ms Mpulo. “He has never had to fend for himself in the wild. During his tenure at NZG, Charley has not only entertained and educated thousands of visitors but also contributed to various research initiatives that are invaluable to the conservation and management of elephants. Charley also contributed to the preservation of biological materials for future research. He deserves to continue enjoying the excellent care in retirement that he received at NZG for decades. “Management, staff and visitors to the National Zoo will miss Charley. He is a charismatic and charming member of the larger zoo community nationally and internationally. We all knew that the time would come when this majestic animal would have to retire. We extend our heartfelt wishes for his well-being and happiness in his new home.” The National Zoological Gardens continue providing research and educational, tourism and recreational experiences for visitors, including thousands of students, while maintaining high animal welfare standards.