The club also announced the return of Etiosa Ighodaro and Sifiso Ngobeni to their parent club, Mamelodi Sundowns, following the completion of their loan spells.
Despite a respectable top-eight finish that secured a spot in next season's MTN8 competition, Usuthu have begun reshaping their squad. They have already signed promising goalkeeper Darren Johnson and highly rated midfielder Thapelo Matlhoko from Kruger United.
AmaZulu made the announcement of the 16 permanent exits on Friday night via their social media platforms. The players released include:
Veli Mothwa, Andile Mbanjwa, Abbubaker Mobara, Sandile Khumalo, Mbongeni Gumede, Kwanda Mngonyama, Ramahlwe Mphahlele, Thembela Sikhakhane, Wayde Jooste, Skhulile Manyoni, Rowan Human, Ethan Brooks, Augustine Mulenga, Msindisi Kunene, Junior Dion, and Boniface Haba.
Pedro Dias, the club's Director of Football, extended gratitude to the departing players for their service.
"I would like to thank all these individuals for their contributions to our club and community. We are grateful for the great moments we shared together. On behalf of everyone at AmaZulu FC, we wish them all the best in their future endeavours," said Dias.
The club reiterated its appreciation to Ighodaro and Ngobeni for their commitment during their time at Usuthu, as they now return to Chloorkop with Ighodaro expected to be announced by Kaizer Chiefs soon.