A young entrepreneur from Mbuba in the Umzinyathi district is turning a small dairy venture into a growing business with the support of the Mzinyathi Development Agency.

Nontsikelelo Mhlongo, owner of Mhlongo Omhle (Pty) Ltd, produces amasi and yoghurt and has seen her business expand significantly since receiving start-up support from the agency.

The agency provided essential equipment, including cooking pots, a stove, a thermometer, a scale and a commercial refrigerator, helping Mhlongo establish and grow her enterprise.

Today, the business supplies customers across the area and receives regular orders from school feeding programmes and event caterers. Its growth is expected to accelerate after obtaining a product barcode, opening opportunities to supply larger retail outlets.

Mhlongo said the support she received played a crucial role in helping her business get off the ground.

“I would not be where I am today without the assistance of the Mzinyathi Development Agency. The equipment they provided helped me start producing and growing my customer base,” she said.

Entrepreneur creates jobs as demand for products increases

The business currently employs six people, with the potential to create more jobs as production increases.

Mhlongo’s success has also been recognised by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture. She recently secured third place in the Agro-Processing category at the Phezu koMkhono Awards.

However, she said meeting growing demand remains a challenge.

“There are times when I am unable to fulfil all the orders because I need larger equipment and a bigger production facility. I am also looking for suitable premises in Greytown to help expand the business,” she explained.

Mzinyathi Development Agency spokesperson Thandeka Ngobese said the agency remains committed to supporting emerging entrepreneurs and promoting local economic development through targeted business support initiatives.

She said Mhlongo’s success demonstrates the positive impact that investment in small businesses can have on job creation and economic growth within communities.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.