The Ingonyama Trust has come under renewed scrutiny after the government confirmed the dissolution of its board, citing governance challenges that have rendered its administration unsustainable.
The announcement was made by Land Reform Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso, who said the decision followed consultations with King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, the sole trustee of the organisation, as well as KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli.
Nyhontso said the resignation of five board members had created a leadership vacuum, making it difficult to ensure effective administration of the trust’s operations.
In response, Premier Ntuli urged calm and constructive engagement, emphasising the institution’s importance in rural development and economic inclusion.
“The Ingonyama Trust remains central to the socio-economic development of our rural communities,” Ntuli said, adding that it plays a key role in the government’s broader agenda of poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods.
He further reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to improving land administration systems and supporting initiatives aimed at empowering rural communities under the trust’s jurisdiction.
Despite the dissolution announcement, the board has maintained that it will continue its operations. Acting CEO Siyamdumisa Vilakazi said no legally appointed administrator had been communicated to take over its functions.
“We are still operating within the requirements of the PFMA and applicable regulations,” Vilakazi said, adding that the board is consulting legal representatives to respond appropriately to the decision.
The board is expected to address the matter further during a media briefing scheduled for Friday.