Mondi transfers Ihluku Timber Farm to black-owned Imsebe Enterprises

SOUTH AFRICA – Packaging and paper manufacturer Mondi has announced the transfer of ownership of its Ihluku timber farm in KwaZulu-Natal to Imsebe Enterprises, marking a milestone for transformation in South Africa’s forestry sector.

The historic handover, which took place on August 14 near Harding, KwaZulu-Natal, was facilitated through Mondi Zimele, Mondi’s enterprise and supplier development arm, in collaboration with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and other partners.

Imsebe Enterprises director Thomas Mthethwa becomes one of the country’s first black commercial timber farmers.

“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,” he said.

Mthethwa, alongside business partner Matt Stegen, brings proven expertise in forestry management, silviculture, and community development.

Their vision for Imsebe Enterprises is to run sustainable, environmentally responsible plantations that create jobs, build skills, and supply quality fibre at competitive prices.

With structured support from Mondi Zimele and the IDC, the company aims to become a leading black-owned and managed timber grower.

The Ihluku plantation, spanning more than 1,000 hectares, is strategically located near major timber markets and is expected to generate both permanent and contract employment opportunities, stimulating the local economy.

Mondi South Africa Forests MD Themba Vilane described the deal as “a powerful example of ambition meeting opportunity.”

He added, “This alignment reflects Mondi’s vision of excellence – where innovation, sustainability and inclusion go hand in hand. We hope Imsebe’s success will inspire similar initiatives across the country.”

The forestry and timber sector, which supplies raw material for construction, packaging, pulp, and paper, has historically been dominated by large corporations.

In recent years, government and private sector partners have been working to accelerate transformation and broaden ownership.

Similar initiatives, such as Sappi’s supplier development program and community forestry partnerships supported by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), reflect a growing effort to create space for small- and medium-sized black-owned enterprises.

These programs not only promote inclusive growth but also strengthen sustainable forestry practices in South Africa.

Mondi Zimele CEO Nelly Ndlovu stressed that the transfer embodies the company’s long-term vision, “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.”

Imsebe Enterprises was selected through Mondi Zimele’s rigorous Project Transform Timber process, which included public applications, business plan assessments, and panel evaluations.

For Mthethwa, the opportunity represents both personal achievement and a platform for change. “This is not just about timber farming – it’s about creating a legacy of sustainability, empowerment, and economic inclusion.”

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