Qokolweni Smart Village
The first Smart Village in South Africa - a groundbreaking partnership between traditional leadership and private innovation on 150+ hectares of communal land.
A Living Prototype for Rural Development
Qokolweni Smart Village in the Eastern Cape represents a groundbreaking partnership between traditional leadership and private innovation. Under the custodianship of HRH Chief Zwelihle, this once-undeveloped rural land is becoming a thriving integrated community.
Traditional Meets Innovation
Under the wise guidance of HRH Chief Zwelihle, Qokolweni preserves cultural heritage while embracing modern development. This unique partnership demonstrates how traditional leadership and private innovation can work together to create sustainable communities.
150+ Hectares of Communal Land
Expansive development area allowing for comprehensive community planning
Complete Town in Miniature
Blending residential, agricultural, commercial, and recreational zones
First of Its Kind in South Africa
Pioneer project setting the blueprint for Smart Villages across Africa
HRH Chief Zwelihle
Land Custodian
Multi-Phase Development Plan
Carefully planned phases ensuring sustainable growth and community integration across 400+ eco-friendly homes
Phase 1
120 homes
2025-2026
Key Features:
- Infrastructure foundation
- Solar power grid
- Water systems
- First residential cluster
Phase 2
150 homes
2026-2028
Key Features:
- Recreational spaces
- Commercial hub
- Agro-processing center
- Expanded farming areas
Phase 3
130+ homes
2027-2029
Key Features:
- Tourism facilities - Lodges and Resorts
- Advanced tech integration
- Community center
- Educational facilities
What Qokolweni Will Include
A complete integrated community designed as a town in miniature, blending all aspects of modern rural life
Residential Estate
Beautifully designed homes across three phases – from starter houses to spacious family homes – totalling over 400 units upon completion. Each home sits on its own serviced stand (roughly 600–1000 m² each) with running water, reliable electricity, and sanitation.
Leisure & Green Spaces
The plan features a golf estate and leisure park for recreation – a first for this area – attracting tourism and providing enjoyment for residents. Parks, sports fields, and playgrounds are interwoven throughout the village.
Leisure Park
First-of-its-kind recreational facility attracting tourism to the area
Safe Play Areas
Parks, sports fields, and playgrounds where children can play safely
"Ensuring that open green space and nature remain front and centre, where families can relax in a healthy environment."
Farming & Agro-Processing
Qokolweni dedicates 15–20 hectares to cooperative farming and livestock grazing. This includes irrigated communal fields and homestead gardens where residents grow fresh produce for themselves and the market.
Agro-Processing Hub
Commercial Shopping Centre
A modern shopping centre serving both residents and the broader community, featuring retail stores, restaurants, and essential services. This commercial hub will create employment opportunities and provide convenient access to goods and services.
Retail & Dining
Shops, restaurants, and cafes serving the community and visitors
Essential Services
Banking, healthcare, and professional services in one convenient location
Resort & Lodge
A premium resort and lodge facility offering tourism and accommodation outside Umtata CBD. This destination will attract visitors to experience the Smart Village concept while providing luxury accommodation and conference facilities.
Tourism Hub
Conference Centre
Ready to Call Qokolweni Home?
Join a community where tradition meets innovation, where your investment grows with purpose, and where your family's future is secure.
Secure Your Stand
Choose from available residential stands starting at R68,000. Each stand comes with full infrastructure and community amenities.
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Visit Qokolweni Today
Experience the vision firsthand. Schedule a site visit to see the development progress, meet the community, and choose your perfect stand.