The Mathonsi community in Doringkop officially received title deeds for 2 841 hectares of land on Monday, finalising a land restitution claim submitted more than two decades ago.

The handover took place at the Shekembula Sports Ground, where community members gathered to mark the occasion.

The land was returned to the community in 2021, but the formal transfer of title deeds was completed this week.

The claim dates back to 1998, when the late Inkosi Thanduzulu Edward Mathonsi submitted it on behalf of 179 households – representing around 575 people – who were forcibly removed from their ancestral land during apartheid to make way for sugar cane plantations and mills.

The restitution process was completed in three phases and includes 2 001 hectares of active sugar cane fields.

The remaining land is earmarked for future cultivation.

“This is a historic moment for our community,” said Lindiwe Mbokazi, secretary of the Mathonsi Community Trust.

“Our original claim was for 7 000 hectares. We are pleased that this portion has now been formally returned, and we are actively farming the land.”

Mbokazi noted that the community has already been operating the four farms since the land was returned in 2021.

“Fortunately, our trust includes trustees with years of farming experience.

Their knowledge gives us confidence in the work we are doing,” she said.

The Mathonsi Community Trust intends to expand sugar cane production on the remaining uncultivated hectares and continue working with private partners to develop the land sustainably.

Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development Mzwanele Nyhontso, who officiated the handover, said the land was not taken by force, but through lawful means: “It represents not only justice, but a second chance for growth and dignity.”

Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news.

Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here or if you’re on desktop, scan the QR code below.