Overview
Khwezi Innovations is at the forefront of developing sustainable hygiene products that cater to the pressing needs of both the environment and society. Founded by Nonhlanhla, a visionary entrepreneur, we specialize in creating biodegradable hygiene products that dissolve after use, leaving no harmful residues. Our flagship product, the biodegradable hand glove sanitizer, exemplifies our commitment to sustainable innovation.
Vision Statement
Khwezi Innovations envisions a world where sustainable living is seamlessly woven into everyday life. At the heart of our vision is our commitment to identifying critical issues related to waste management, sustainability, and health, and co-creating innovative solutions that directly address them. We aim to lead a global movement toward an environmentally conscious and resilient future where science, creativity, and collaboration drive positive change.
As a catalyst for transformation, we empower individuals, businesses, and communities to adopt sustainable practices that promote both ecological balance and human well-being. Our vision is to shape a future where Khwezi Innovations’ contributions meaningfully advance environmental preservation, enhance public health, and foster thriving, climate-resilient societies. We aspire to be recognized as a trusted, influential leader in building a sustainable world for present and future generations.
Our work is guided by three core pillars:
Reducing Plastic Pollution:
We design and produce biodegradable hand sanitizer solutions made from organic ingredients that safeguard both people and the planet.
Advancing Waste Management Practices:
We collaborate with diverse industries to introduce innovative waste management systems that minimize environmental footprints and promote circular economy models.
Enhancing Health and Well-being:
We implement initiatives that reduce health risks linked to poor waste management, ensuring cleaner, safer, and more resilient communities worldwide.
A breakthrough in sustainable hygiene
Through these endeavors, Khwezi Innovations strives to generate measurable impact, bridging innovation, environmental stewardship, and public health. By nurturing strategic partnerships, promoting education, and championing continuous innovation, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of a sustainable, inclusive, and resilient future for all.
Partnership & Support
FOUNDER and ceo
NONHLANHLA CYNTHIA MHLONGO
Trailblazer in Green Innovation & Sustainable Entrepreneurship
Nonhlanhla Cynthia Mhlongo, the visionary Founder of Khwezi Innovations, stands at the forefront of green innovation and eco-conscious entrepreneurship in Africa. Since founding the company in 2020, she has consistently broken new ground in sustainable business practices, earning recognition both locally and internationally. Her passion, resilience, and bold leadership have positioned her as one of South Africa’s most promising and impactful green entrepreneurs
Founder of Khwezi Innovations
Driven by a mission to confront environmental challenges with inventive, sustainable solutions, Nonhlanhla launched Khwezi Innovations to develop technologies and strategies that advance health and environmental sustainability. Under her leadership, the startup has grown into a beacon of eco-innovation, with initiatives that bridge climate action, circular economy, and health equity.
Leadership & Broader Impact
Khwezi Innovations addresses the global challenge of plastic pollution caused by latex gloves that often end up in rivers and oceans. Our biodegradable gloves dissolve in water, leaving no waste behind, unlike latex gloves that take years to decompose while releasing harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change
Nonhlanhla Mhlongo continues to drive Khwezi Innovations with boldness, clarity of purpose, and an unshakable belief in Africa’s potential to lead the world in sustainable innovation. Her story is one of vision, excellence, and unstoppable impact.
Notable Accolades and International Recognition
- Top 4 South African Startups – BOOSTUP 2021 (Finland, Europe): Represented South Africa with distinction, showcasing global-ready climate solutions.
- Mail & Guardian’s Top 26 Climate Innovators: Celebrated for championing youth-led, eco-inclusive entrepreneurship and sustainable practices
- Top 15 – Startupper of the Year 2022 (TotalEnergies): Honored for her entrepreneurial ingenuity and socially impactful innovations.
- Top 3 – ClimateLaunchpad South Africa 2022: Recognized for advancing climate-tech solutions that are scalable and community-driven.
- Participant – Climate Action MovHer 2022 (Girl Move Academy): Collaborated with 20 women globally to accelerate environmental transformation.
- Top 10 Finalist – HerMeNow Accelerator 2023 (Dubai): Represented South Africa at an elite global entrepreneurship stage.
- Delegate – STEP 2024 (Dubai): Continuing her international engagements to forge partnerships and scale impact.
Project Stages / Milestones
- Technical Feasibility Study conducted by Nelson Mandela University
- First MVP product formulation by Lauren Lamont (LAMCHEM Laboratories)
- MVP stage development and testing by LAMCHEM Laboratories
- Initial user testing at Science Forum South Africa 2024, with 25 pharmacies participating at CSIR
- Final prototype development by Dr. Vuyiswa Mkhabela, Chemist at Eswatini Medical Christian University, Department of Pharmacy.
Our Services
01 - BIODEGRADABLE HAND GLOVE SANITIZER
A revolutionary hand sanitizing solution that combines convenience with environmental responsibility.
02 - CUSTOM SUSTAINABILITV SOLUTIONS
Tailored products designed to meet specific needs of businesses and consumers while adhering to eco-friendly practices.
Our team
Our team is made up of passionate professionals committed to driving innovation, sustainability, and positive impact across communities.
NONHLANHLA CYNTHIA MHLONGO
FOUNDER and ceo
Nonhlanhla Cynthia Mhlongo, the visionary Founder of Khwezi Innovations, stands at the forefront of green innovation and eco-conscious entrepreneurship in Africa. Since founding the company in 2020, she has consistently broken new ground in sustainable business practices, earning recognition both locally and internationally. Her passion, resilience, and bold leadership have positioned her as one of South Africa’s most promising and impactful green entrepreneurs
FELIX NYABENI
GRANTS AND PROPOSALS SPECIALIST
Felix Nyabeni is a Grants and Proposals Specialist at Khwezi Innovations, where he leads funding efforts for health and sustainability projects across Africa. He brings experience from global programs such as the Aspire Leaders Institute, FXB Climate Advocates, and the Kectil Program. Currently pursuing a degree in Registered Nursing, Felix blends academic knowledge with real-world leadership. He is a certified UN SDG Leader and passionate advocate for public health, climate action, and youth empowerment.
NOLUTHANDO KHUMALO
PROJECT LEAD
Noluthando Khumalo is a Project Lead at Khwezi Innovations, overseeing research, investor engagement, and project implementation in health and environmental sectors. She holds a BA in Political Science, International Relations, and Psychology, and is currently pursuing her Honours degree at the University of Johannesburg. Noluthando also mentors students in her department, supporting their academic and professional development. Her work bridges innovation, global policy, and community impact.
LORRAINE MOYO
PROJECT ASSISTANT
Lorraine Moyo is a Project Assistant at Khwezi Innovations, supporting coordination, stakeholder engagement, and strategic research. With a background in Sales and Marketing, she specializes in customer insights, market analysis, and product positioning. Lorraine is passionate about helping startups grow by connecting with the right audiences. Her skills in translating market needs into business strategies contribute to the team’s innovation and impact.
Our Mission
At Khwezi Innovations, our mission is to spearhead the global transition toward sustainable living by turning pressing environmental and health challenges into opportunities for innovation. We are dedicated to identifying and co-creating practical, science-driven solutions that address critical issues in waste management, sustainability, and health.
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