Former journalist turns invasive vegetation into a KwaZulu-Natal charcoal business

Mxolisi Mhlongo, a 36-year-old former journalist, has transformed his experience in the media industry into a successful business venture in KwaZulu-Natal. Mhlongo, the founder of Euphrosyne, an enterprise that clears invasive vegetation and converts it into charcoal, is a finalist in the Emerging Business Entrepreneur of the Year category for the 2026 Business Partners Limited Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

Mhlongo's journey began after facing multiple job losses and resignations, which took an emotional toll on him. He decided to leave the uncertain world of journalism and build something of his own. Euphrosyne started when Mhlongo explored supplying wood to a commercial buyer, but lacking certification, he discovered they accepted charcoal instead. This led him to research charcoal production and the pressure it placed on indigenous forests in water-scarce uMkhanyakude.

To address this issue, Mhlongo devised a solution by using invasive alien vegetation as feedstock for charcoal production. Euphrosyne identifies invasive species, harvests the biomass, and transforms it into charcoal using pyrolysis in metal kilns. This model provides an alternative for communities to cut indigenous trees while generating jobs in clearing, transport, and production.

Initially operating at Coastal Cashews farm in KwaNgwanase, Euphrosyne later faced challenges when the farm closed due to local political tensions. The company suffered another setback when it lost a key contract with Durban-based Ilangabi Cooperative and faced difficulties in KwaJobe, where local groups demanded a minimum daily wage that the start-up couldn't sustain.

Despite the setbacks, Euphrosyne managed to leave its lowest point in 2023 and now receives support from a partnership with E&C Charcoal, which has helped stabilize the market. Euphrosyne has since expanded its operations, providing technical guidance, quality-control support, and access to buyers for smaller rural charcoal producers.