ABSTRACT
This chapter presents and discusses two contrasting case studies of community-owned commercial forestry in South Africa. The Mabandla community-owned plantation on communal land has served as a catalyst for local development, providing employment and a source of development finance to establish additional businesses. Accountable governance and business entities have been developed. In sharp contrast, the Amabomvini community land restitution has failed to deliver any appreciable benefits to the majority. Misappropriation of funds led to conflict within the community and a breakdown of trust between leaders and community members. The contrasting Mabandla and Amabomvini case studies provide insight into the necessary conditions for successful community-owned commercial forestry. First is the need to secure full ownership and control of both land and trees. Access to finance is key to securing ownership and developing forestry and associated businesses. The ongoing support of committed, skilled, and capable advisors working in the best interests of the community is essential. Finally, community governance institutions and businesses need to be competent and to be held to account.
