Celebrating rural investment: ITB members at the launch of Mbazwana Crossing Shopping Centre in Manguzi, developed in partnership with the Mbila Traditional Council headed by Inkosi Zikhali.
WELCOME TO THE INGONYAMA TRUST
On the eve of South Africa’s first democratic elections in 1994, the Ingonyama Trust was established to safeguard and administer approximately 2.8 million hectares of communal land in KwaZulu-Natal.
This land is held in trust by His Majesty the King (the Ingonyama) as the sole trustee, for the material benefit and welfare of the tribes and communities who reside upon it.
To ensure the effective execution of this mandate, the Ingonyama is supported by the Ingonyama Trust Board and its Secretariat, who manage the day-to-day operations of the institution in alignment with its founding principles.
We thank you for visiting our official website. Here, you will find relevant information about our mandate, governance, partnerships, and community development initiatives. Should you require further assistance or information, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Ingonyama Trust Board — Quick Facts
At-a-glance overview of our mandate, priorities, and community impact.
Held in trust across KwaZulu‑Natal for traditional communities.
His Majesty the King serves as the Ingonyama — Sole Trustee of the Trust.
Created by the Ingonyama Trust Act; Board constituted in 2000 after amendment.
Inclusive growth & job creation; reduce poverty & improve livelihoods; build a capable, ethical institution.
Service • Courtesy • Compassion • Discipline • Accountability • Respect
Lease income is disbursed via Traditional Councils for local upliftment projects.
Industry leaders with a track record of excellence-
The Ingonyama Trust Board (ITB) was formally established in 2000, following the amendment of the Ingonyama Trust Act. Since then, the Board has played a pivotal role in facilitating responsible land use and driving rural development.
Through its land administration processes, ITB has provided leases to a wide range of business organisations, enabling developments such as:
- Shopping centres and malls that stimulate local economies.
- Service stations that improve mobility and convenience for communities.
- Cellphone towers and digital infrastructure that expand connectivity in rural areas.
The revenue collected from these leases is not retained for the institution itself but is channeled directly back to the communities through their Traditional Councils. These funds are used to uplift and develop local communities, ensuring that economic activity on Trust land translates into tangible benefits for the people who reside there.
R200 Million Rural Investment
In partnership with the Mbila Traditional Council under Inkosi Zikhali, the Ingonyama Trust Board facilitated land access for the development of the Mbazwana Crossing Shopping Mall in Manguzi. This landmark project demonstrates how Trust land can drive rural economic growth, job creation, and community upliftment.
250
Construction jobs (70% local)
400+
Permanent operational jobs
R6M
Facilities for informal traders
10%
Retail space for local entrepreneurs
Overview of our achievements
In the past financial year 2022/23 we are proud to state that we have had the following achievements.
R27M
revenue generated
253
leases approved
R19M
disbursed to communities
30
total years experience
