Keletso Makgalwa has revealed the factors behind his decision to leave South Africa and join Tanzanian giants Simba SC ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The former Mamelodi Sundowns attacker completed a two-year move to the East African club after ending his spell with Betway Premiership side Sekhukhune United.
The 29-year-old winger has already begun adapting to his new surroundings, making four appearances for Simba under head coach Steve Barker.
Steve Barker Played a Key Role
According to Makgalwa, Barker was central to his decision to accept Simba’s offer.
The coach reportedly made contact with the attacker in April 2026 and outlined how he intended to use him within the team.
“Coach Steve [Barker] called me. He was the first one to call me around April [2026], and he told me everything,” Makgalwa told FARPost during Simba’s recent mini-camp at The Ranch Resort outside Polokwane.
“He told me how he wants to use me, how he wants me to play in his team. It was a good offer for me that I couldn’t refuse. So I had to make that decision to go join coach Steve.”
Family Considerations Before Tanzania Move
Although the football opportunity appealed to him, Makgalwa admitted that leaving South Africa required serious discussions with his family.
The winger had recently married and also became a father, making the decision to relocate abroad more complicated.
“It was not an easy one in terms of family-wise. I have a five-month-old kid, and I just got married four months ago,” he explained.
Makgalwa said he had to speak with his wife and family and explain why the move was important for his career and his responsibilities away from football.
“So I had to sit them down and make them understand that at the end of the day it’s work, and I need to take care of my family. So my wife understood, and my family as well, from home.”
Champions League Opportunity Added to the Appeal
Beyond Barker’s influence, Makgalwa said the chance to continue developing his career outside South Africa was another major attraction.
He also highlighted the financial benefits of the move and the opportunity to compete in the CAF Champions League.
“It’s a good chance for me to also grow as a footballer while playing outside the country and explore, you know,” Makgalwa said.
“So it was a good offer for me financially and also the Champions League. I wanted to go back and play in the [CAF] Champions League.”
The continental competition therefore formed an important part of his decision as he looked to take on a new challenge in East African football.
Simba Beat Competition for His Signature
Makgalwa’s move to Simba came despite interest from other prominent clubs.
Young Africans, Simba’s domestic rivals, had reportedly shown interest in signing the winger, while South African giants Kaizer Chiefs were also linked with a move for his services.
Neither pursuit resulted in a completed transfer, leaving Simba to secure the former Sundowns player’s signature on a two-year contract.
A New Chapter in Tanzania
Having made the move, Makgalwa is now focused on establishing himself at one of Tanzania’s leading clubs.
His early appearances under Barker have given him a first taste of competitive football in his new environment, while the prospect of Champions League football offers another opportunity to test himself at continental level.
For Makgalwa, the transfer represents more than simply a change of club. It combines a new professional challenge, improved financial prospects and the chance to continue his development away from South Africa while providing for his growing family.
