Gledhow Sugar Mill in KwaDukuza (Stanger), KwaZulu-Natal, was officially relaunched on 8 April 2026. This marks a positive development for the local economy, saving around 400–440 jobs and securing the future of over 200 sugarcane growers.
Background
The mill entered voluntary business rescue in March 2023 due to financial distress, exacerbated by factors like the 2021 social unrest (riots), floods, debt, and broader challenges in South Africa’s sugar industry (including cheap imports and low yields in recent seasons). It exited business rescue earlier in 2026 after a successful process.
Key Details of the Reopening
- New owners/investors: The Chatthe Group (from Kenya) acquired the mill and committed to a major R1.8 billion (nearly R2 billion) expansion and upgrade project. This was pledged at the South African Presidential Investment Conference in Sandton on 31 March 2026.
- Event: Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Zuko Godlimpi attended the relaunch ceremony on 8 April 2026 at the mill (1 Gledhow Mill Road, KwaDukuza). It aligns with preparations for the new sugarcane crushing season, which is set to start in May 2026.
- Impact: The upgrades are expected to increase capacity and demand for more sugarcane, benefiting local growers who are already planting additional cane. It also supports rural livelihoods in the North Coast region.
This comes amid ongoing pressures on KZN’s sugar sector, where other mills have faced closures or early season ends in recent years. The reopening is viewed as a boost, with government and industry stakeholders (including the dtic and development finance institutions) expressing commitment to further support via the Sugar Industry Master Plan Phase 2 (signing expected soon after the visit).
The mill, historically one of the independent producers in the area, supplies refined sugar to food and beverage manufacturers across Southern Africa. Local excitement was high, with reports of people queuing for job opportunities at the event.
If you’re in the Durban/KZN area or connected to the sugar industry (growers, workers, or suppliers), this should bring some welcome stability ahead of the crushing season. Let me know if you’d like more details on the investment, job impacts, or the broader sugar master plan!
