Packaging and paper manufacturer Mondi has announced the historic transfer of ownership of the Ihluku timber farm, in KwaZulu-Natal, to Imsebe Enterprises.

The manufacturer says this milestone was achieved through Mondi Zimele, its enterprise and supplier development company, in partnership with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and other key stakeholders.

The handover took place on August 14 near Harding, KwaZulu-Natal.

Mondi says Imsebe Enterprises director Thomas Mthethwa becomes one of South Africa’s first black commercial timber farmers, marking a milestone in the forestry sector.

“This is a dream come true. It is an honour to be entrusted with this responsibility and to pave the way for other black farmers in the sector,” says Mthethwa.

Under the leadership of Mthethwa and his business partner Matt Stegen, Mondi says Imsebe Enterprises brings proven expertise in forestry management, silviculture and community development.

Mondi explains that the company’s mission is to manage sustainable, environmentally responsible plantations that create jobs, build skills and supply quality fibre to the market at competitive prices.

With structured support from Mondi Zimele and the IDC, Mondi says, Imsebe Enterprises is set to become a leading, black-owned and managed timber grower and a model for transformation in the forestry sector.

“The handover is a powerful example of ambition meeting opportunity, representing the convergence of Mondi’s decision to sell the farm with Imsebe’s determination to enter the commercial forestry sector.

“This alignment, supported by Mondi and government partners, reflects Mondi's vision of excellence – where innovation, sustainability and inclusion go hand in hand,” says Mondi South Africa Forests MD Themba Vilane.

“We hope the success of Imsebe will inspire similar initiatives across the country, fostering shared value and broad-based economic inclusion.”

The Ihluku plantation, covering more than 1 000 ha, is strategically located near major timber markets. It will provide both permanent and contract employment opportunities, strengthening the local economy.

Timber farming, also known as commercial forestry, is the cultivation and management of forests to sustainably produce timber for construction, packaging, pulp and paper and other products.

“This partnership demonstrates that economic transformation and inclusive growth, when executed with vision and collaboration, can deliver powerful outcomes,” says Mondi Zimele CEO Nelly Ndlovu.

“Our ambition goes beyond leading the industry but also to contribute to a better South Africa, where enterprises like Imsebe can inspire, uplift and create lasting impact.”

Mondi says Imsebe Enterprises was selected following Mondi Zimele’s rigorous Project Transform Timber process, which included a public call for applications, the submission of detailed business plans and independent panel presentations.