Mondi transfers 258 ha to KZN community

Paper and packaging group Mondi has concluded its ninth land restitution settlement, transferring 258 ha of its forestry land to members of the Mkhwanazi community, in Port Durnford, in KwaZulu-Natal.

The members of the community will gain ownership of the land through the Phalane Trust and plan to derive a sustainable income from the land, while simultaneously progressively developing their own businesses to operate along the forestry value chain.

Mondi would work towards ensuring that the land continues to produce fibre for its mills, by providing funding for the training, coaching and mentoring of the community members.

Access to start-up costs for the community companies, vehicles and equipment would also be facilitated.

The regional land claim commission would also provide some planning and development grants to the community, which should offset some of the start-up costs.

“We are very pleased that a settlement has been reached with the community on terms which achieve empowerment of new owners and ensures a continued fibre supply for our business,” said Mondi South Africa head of land Maurice Makhathini.