Izak and Bernice are the husband and wife farming family that grow coffee on their farm in the KwaCeza district of Zululand. The farm, Rotspark Farm, is located between Vryheid and Ulundi in the heart of Zululand, nestled beneath the golden cliffs of the Zululand mountains where waterfalls tumble into the Black Umfolozi river.
A view of the farm from the nearby mountains.
The family has farmed this land for generations—originally with cotton and cattle - before diversifying into macadamias, coffee, and tunnel-grown crops.
Izak and Bernice, with their future coffee farmer kids!
“Our coffee is Arabica (Catuai and SL28 varieties), grown in the fertile valleys of northern KwaZulu-Natal near the Black Mfolozi River. The farm sits at an altitude of around 750m above sea level, with cool misty mornings and warm afternoons—conditions that allow for slow bean development and a naturally balanced flavour.”
Young Catuai & SL28 varietals on the farm.
“We currently have around 6,000 coffee trees, interplanted with macadamias and indigenous shade trees. This creates a natural microclimate that supports bird and insect biodiversity. We yield 1.5 to 2 tons of parchment per hectare, and all cherries are hand-picked and sun-dried on raised beds to preserve their unique character.”
“We’re part of a strong agricultural community where most farmers traditionally grow maize, beans and livestock. Recently, more growers have begun exploring permanent tree crops like macadamias and coffee. We take pride in pioneering sustainable, long-term crops for our region, while also supporting local workers and helping train young farmers in regenerative farming methods.”
“Coffee Farming began with curiosity and a passion for great coffee. We realised that our climate and elevation shared similarities with regions in Kenya and Malawi—areas known for producing exceptional Arabica. After trial plantings, the trees flourished, and our early harvests revealed balanced acidity, gentle chocolate undertones, and a clean finish. That early success encouraged us to grow further, eventually establishing Mfolozi Mac’s Coffee as a proud local Zululand brand.”
Mfolozi Swart is one of our SA grown coffees in this month's extremely limited edition Discover Great Coffee Club Box, which you can order now!
