Cape Town - Tributes have poured in on the birthday of Kaizer Motaung as the Kaizer Chiefs boss celebrated his 75th birthday on Wednesday.

Fondly known as 'Chincha Guluva', Motaung is widely respected for building the huge Amakhosi brand that is followed by millions throughout the African continent.

Motaung was superb as a player for great rivals Orlando Pirates, who recruited him as a 16-year-old, and also made a name overseas as he went on to star for Atlanta Chiefs in the USA.

When Motaung and a number of former Pirates teammates decided to form a club, he looked to his American club for the name and club logo.

According to the Chiefs website, 'Bra K' was only 24 in 1969 when he started the mighty Amakhosi - originally as a touring side called Kaizer XI - yet he showed vision beyond his years.

The innovative attitude of the man born in Soweto in 1944 has shaped Kaizer Chiefs through the years and they remain the most popular and one of the most successful clubs in South Africa.

In a letter of tribute, Orlando Pirates chairman Dr Irvin Khoza described Motaung as "self-made, pioneering leadership [who] created, nurtured a business and brand that defines and differentiates South Africa today."

In the past decade, Motaung has taken a back seat in the running of his own football club, with son Bobby and daughter Jessica taking a more hands-on approach in the day to day to day running.

He still plays an important role in the South Africa football landscape as he sits on the Premier Soccer League board and still commands respect when he speaks or makes decisions.

Kaizer Chiefs wrote on their site on Wednesday: "Bra K is celebrated by many all over the world and his contribution to football in South Africa cannot be matched.

"As he celebrates 75 years on earth, we as the family of Amakhosi wish our Chairman, Kaizer 'Boy-Boy' Motaung a blessed day.

"We thank him for all he has done and continues to do for the club and football in South Africa, the continent and the world.

"Thank you for creating and building a legacy for many generations to come. Your life continues to be exemplary.

"We love you and enjoy this special day, Ntate Motaung!"