Founded in 2007 after the closure of Mondi’s Khulanathi out-grower scheme, Khulanathi Forestry was established by former Mondi employees Thokozani Mfekayi, David Gumede, and William Gama, with support from Mondi Zimele. The company’s purpose is to continue supporting small-scale timber growers in Zululand while creating a sustainable commercial business.
Business Model
Khulanathi purchases timber from thousands of small-scale growers, many of whom participated in the original Mondi out-grower programme. These growers typically own woodlots ranging from one to several hectares and primarily cultivate eucalyptus trees.
The company operates timber depots equipped with weighbridges and loading facilities in:
- Sokhulu
- KwaMbonambi
- Mfekayi
- Esikhawini
Growers harvest their timber using local contractors and deliver it to these depots. Khulanathi then arranges transport to Mondi’s pulp mill in Richards Bay.
