In the beautiful hills of Ndlangubo in Ishowe, KwaZulu-Natal, Mbongi Khuzwayo has created a haven where farming and tourism meet. The agritoursim venture called Khuzumuntu Farmhouse, is a working farm that features housing facilities.
Khuzwayo’s agritourism business has been growing steadily since its launch in 2018. The 10-hectare property is currently under development and features housing facilities, used as student accommodation. Armed with a National Diploma in Surveying from Mangosuthu University, Khuzwayo brings a wealth of expertise to land development.
A perfect combination
His motivation for starting his agritourism business, Khuzumuntu Farmhouse, was rooted in his desire for financial independence, his passion for farming, and his love for his community. He initially started with 18 goats and has since grown his herd to over 120 goats by using the income from his full-time job as a field surveyor.
“Farming is something I’ve always wanted to pursue,” he says. “Planning for the future is essential so that families have options,” he adds.
On his 10-hectare farm, he farms mainly with Boer goats. He also grows cabbages, spinach, lettuce, onions, and tomatoes.
His business draws clientele from the local communities of Ndlangubo, eNqoleni, eZitennteni, Nqamzana, and beyond. During the festive season, he is most busy as celebrations drive demand.
Forward-thinking
Currently, Khuzumuntu is providing students from various universities with an opportunity to acquire knowledge about goats. So far, he has welcomed people from the North West and Nigeria who have already taken advantage of this educational initiative.
He is also extending invitations to students from different universities, offering them the opportunity to gain insights into goat farming.
To date, individuals from the North West and Nigeria have already taken advantage of this educational initiative.
Khuzumuntu also plans to launch an initiative that is focused on nurturing the growth and development of children in elementary schools. He believes that providing a goat to each child [only those who show interest] would serve as a foundation for their financial literacy, while also introducing them to the practice of farming.
“The primary objective is to foster the development of agri-preneurship among them throughout their youth. By doing so, students can purchase their own school uniform and stationery,” he explains.
