Our History

1998 — Inception

526 claimants from the KwaCele-Nhlangwini community in Stanger, KwaZulu-Natal, submitted a land restoration claim for 12 farms under the Restitution of Land Rights Act, 1994.

2009 — The birth of a legacy

The claim was successful and the first portion of land transferred. KwaCele Farming and DGK Trio Holdings were established to manage the business operations for beneficiaries.

2009 — First Board of Trustees

The KwaCele-Nhlangwini Communal Property Trust elected its first Board of Trustees, supporting governance, funding and community initiatives.

2014 — Second Board of Trustees (historic group)

The original history page identifies the second Board of Trustees in its historic group photograph.

Seated: Inkosi BM Cele, Mrs TC Gumede, Mrs KN Ngema, Mr BW Khuzwayo.
Standing: Ms AN Gumede, Mr TB Nzuza, Mr K Dube, Mr S Mhlongo, Mr SD Mdluli, Mr PJ Gumede, Mr MJ Biyela and Mr J Mngoma.

2014 — Student bursary programme

The Trust supported youth through its bursary programme, including Sabelo Nyaba, a graduate in agricultural science who later served in farm management.

2014 — Full community control

Following a period of partnership and mentorship with Crookes Brothers, the Trust took full control of farming operations in March 2014.

2019 — Third Board of Trustees

The published history records the appointment of a third board, continuing community governance and stewardship.