Mr Nkosi, who studied Development Studies at UMP, has built a dynamic career as a Development Strategist, Drone Technology Specialist and Community Innovation Expert.
A significant component of his work focuses on land reform, one of South Africa’s most complex socio-economic challenges. With over nine years of experience across government and development sectors, his work spans land redistribution, tenure reform, agricultural support and community empowerment, all aimed at advancing inclusive and sustainable development.
He has been actively involved in facilitating land redistribution under the willing buyer–willing seller model and in supporting state land lease programmes through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development. His experience has enabled him to develop a strong understanding of policy frameworks, including Section 25 of the Constitution, tenure reform and communal land governance systems.
“Land reform in South Africa is not just about transferring land – it is about restoring dignity, creating economic opportunity and ensuring long-term sustainability. However, policy fragmentation and lack of alignment between different frameworks remain major challenges,” he said, highlighting the complexities surrounding communal land.
There's a need for systems that balance traditional leadership structures with modern governance models. We need systems that provide communities with clear land rights while still respecting traditional authority. When communities have certainty and ownership, they are better positioned to participate meaningfully in the economy."
In addition to his policy work, Mr Nkosi is advancing innovation through the use of drone technology. As a certified Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) drone pilot with Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) authorisation, he is integrating aerial and geospatial data into development practice.
He applies drone technology to land use analysis, agricultural planning, environmental monitoring and infrastructure assessment. His technical expertise includes mapping, tower surveying, powerline inspection and geospatial intelligence tools, enabling more efficient and data-driven decision-making.
“Drone technology allows us to generate real-time data on land use, agricultural productivity and environmental changes. This information is critical for policymakers, farmers and communities to make informed decisions that support sustainable development."
Mr Nkosi is also committed to empowering young people through skills development and innovation. He is currently developing an initiative to establish a drone and technology training academy aimed at equipping youth with advanced digital and technical skills.
Mr Nkosi is also committed to empowering young people through skills development and innovation.
“Young people, especially in rural and communal areas, have the potential to innovate and lead. What they often lack is access to technology, skills and opportunities. This initiative is about bridging that gap and preparing young people for a future shaped by technology,” he said.
The initiative aims to address youth unemployment while positioning Mpumalanga Province as a hub for innovation and technological advancement. By introducing young people to fields such as drone operations, geospatial analysis and artificial intelligence, Mr Nkosi seeks to unlock new economic opportunities.
He emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development outcomes, noting that partnerships between higher education institutions, government and the private sector are essential.
“Partnerships are critical if we are to address the challenges facing our country. Institutions like the University of Mpumalanga, together with government and industry, have a responsibility to support innovative initiatives that create opportunities and build capacity among young people,” he said.
As a forward-thinking leader, Mr Nkosi remains focused on advancing inclusive development, strengthening land reform systems and leveraging technology to improve lives. His journey reflects the transformative power of education and the role of young professionals in shaping the future.
“The future belongs to those who are prepared to build it. As young people, we must move beyond identifying problems and start creating solutions that uplift our communities and drive meaningful change,” he said, concluding that the gap between research and practice must be met.
His work reflects a strong commitment to evidence-based solutions, institutional strengthening and community-centred development.
Story by Cleopatra Makhaga. Pictures supplied. Copyright © UMP.