By Keletso Mkhwanazi.
Enterprising farmer Mbongi Khuzwayo started his business with only 18 goats, which has since grown to a herd of more than 100 in under five years. Khuzwayo has now combined his farming business with tourism in the scenic hills of Ndlangubo near Eshowe in northern KwaZulu-Natal, where he is based. He says he founded the Khuzumuntu Farmhouse out of a desire for financial independence, a love of farming, and a commitment to his community.
Khuzwayo has established a paradise for farming and tourism in the scenic hills of Ndlangubo, Eshowe in northern KwaZulu-Natal. Khuzumuntu Farmhouse, an agri-tourism business, is a working farm with lodging amenities. Khuzwayo’s agri-tourism business has expanded rapidly since its inception in 2018. The 10-hectare property is now being developed and will include lodgings for students. Khuzwayo, who holds a National Diploma in Surveying from the Mangosuthu University of Technology, has extensive experience in land development.
“My goal for financial independence, passion for farming, and love and passion to develop my community drove me to begin with 18 goats, and I have since expanded my herd to over 120 goats using the earnings from my full-time job as a field surveyor,” he said. He added that farming is something he’s always wanted to pursue. “Planning for the future is essential so that families have options. I mostly raise Boer goats on my 10-hectare farm, and I also cultivate cabbage, spinach, lettuce, onions, and tomatoes,” said Khuzwayo.
His customers come from Ndlangubo, eNqoleni, eZitennteni, Nqamzana, and surrounding areas. He is busiest during the holiday season when demand is high. Currently, Khuzumuntu offers university students the opportunity to learn practically about goat rearing. He has already hosted individuals from the North West and Nigeria. “I also intend to create an initiative aimed at supporting the growth and development of students in primary schools,” he said. He further said that the fundamental goal is to encourage the growth of agri-entrepreneurship among the youth. – news@vutivibusinessnews.co.za
