Deputy President Mashatile Hands Over 627 Hectares to Mtsweni Family in Mpumalanga

On March 13, 2026, Deputy President Paul Mashatile handed over more than 627 hectares of land and title deeds to the Mtsweni family, represented by the Schulk Marhiqa CPA, in Govan Mbeki Local Municipality, Mpumalanga. This affects 86 beneficiaries from 18 households. The event marks ongoing land restitution efforts during Human Rights Month, addressing historical dispossessions from acts like the 1913 Natives Land Act. This article covers confirmed facts, historical context, implications, and near-term developments, based on reports from the Presidency.

The handover took place on Portions 24 and 26 of Grootvlei Farm. The Mtsweni family once owned this land. It was taken under the Natives Land Act of 1913 and given to the Frans Herbs family.

Deputy President Mashatile joined Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development Mzwanele Nyhontso for the ceremony. He called the event proof of the government’s commitment to restorative justice.

“This handover is a testament to the ongoing pursuit of justice, and each hectare restored is a meaningful step towards healing historical injustices and reaffirms our resolve to building a fairer and more equitable South Africa. It is also a fulfilment of a promise we made in 1994 that land would be returned to its rightful owners.”

Thulani Mdakane, Special Adviser in the Office of the Deputy President, reported these details.

Land dispossession started with laws like the Natives Land Act of 1913. The Group Areas Act of 1950 added to the problem. These acts led to forced removals and evictions of Black landowners.

Black families lost farms for crops and livestock. They became tenants or laborers on their own land. Neighborhoods were destroyed, and people moved to remote townships.

Since 1994, the government has worked on land reform. This includes restitution, redistribution, and tenure reform. It follows the Constitution’s call for redress.

The program has returned vast hectares for farming, homes, and industry. Challenges remain, like backlogs and post-settlement support.

An Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by Deputy President Mashatile, helps unblock issues. The Presidency speeds up title deeds for beneficiaries.

The Schulk Marhiqa CPA shows good family unity and management. They farm 100 hectares of maize and 30 hectares of soya beans. They also raise cattle and goats.

Government gave R16,585,627.80 in support. This funds livestock, grain production, and skills training. Mentorship and market access will help link farms to value chains.

Key Support Details:

• Funding: R16,585,627.80
• Current farming: 100ha maize, 30ha soya beans, cattle, goats
• Goals: Boost productivity and economic growth

These steps aim at restorative justice and economic inclusion. They support rural development and social cohesion.

On March 20, 2026, President Cyril Ramaphosa will hand over about 17,020 hectares in Harry Gwala District Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal. This goes to three communities.

The event ties to Human Rights Month. It shows commitment to land restitution and equity. Mdakane reported these facts from the Presidency.