When most people think of worms, they picture slimy little creatures squirming in the dirt. But for 21-year-old Snenhlanhla Maduna, from Hilton, Pietermaritzburg, these creepy-crawlies spark nothing but joy. Affectionately known as the ‘worm mom,’ Maduna has built her entire business around the humble earthworm.
“They are harmless,” she beams. “The tickling sensation they create when hand-held helped me overcome my initial aversion.” Maduna co-founded SñP Organic Products, a company that transforms natural waste into nutrient-rich compost through a process called vermicomposting—where earthworms convert organic waste into a substance that enhances soil health.
The inspiration behind SñP Organic Products stems from Maduna’s deep passion for gardening and sustainable living. The business was born after the COVID-19 lockdown and the devastating July 2021 unrest, events that made her and her father, Phumani Zondi, realize the importance of growing their own food.
“My father and I began experimenting with different organic waste materials in our backyard,” she recalls. “We wanted to transform waste into something valuable.”
After extensive research and training, the father-daughter duo launched SñP Organic Products with a mission to promote sustainable agriculture by producing nutrient-rich, chemical-free compost.
SñP Organic Products primarily targets local gardeners and environmentally conscious consumers who value organic, eco-friendly products. Their compost is perfect for gardening enthusiasts who seek to enrich their soil without harmful chemicals. But Maduna and her team don’t just stop there—they also produce worm bait for fishing enthusiasts and have plans to expand their customer base to farmers, golf courses, and other large-scale users of compost.
The potential for growth is huge, and Maduna’s ambitions are just as big.
In addition to their compost, SñP Organic Products offers a comfrey balm with natural therapeutic benefits. Comfrey, a plant known for its medicinal properties, is grown at their home and used to create a balm that treats sore muscles, backaches, joint pain, and inflammation. Their plantain balm also offers anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it ideal for treating acne, rashes, and eczema.
Despite only employing one worker who assists part-time, SñP Organic Products has big plans for growth. Maduna envisions a future where her business doesn’t just produce compost but also creates job opportunities for young people aged 18 to 50. She hopes to empower them to learn vermicomposting and even start their own ventures.
Maduna is particularly hopeful for government support to help scale their operations and spread sustainable farming practices to disadvantaged communities. “Government funding and support would enable us to educate more people and create job opportunities,” she says. “Our vision is to establish a large-scale worm farm, producing compost and training individuals in vermiculture.”
Maduna is also currently pursuing a Bachelor of Education degree with Stadio Higher Education, a course she believes will equip her with the skills to teach others about sustainable practices effectively.
“Our journey in vermicomposting and organic product development is a testament to how small efforts can make a big impact,” she explains. “With the right support and education, we aim to transform the agricultural landscape in South Africa, one worm at a time.”
Snenhlanhla Maduna’s story is a shining example of how passion, innovation, and perseverance can turn even the simplest of creatures—like worms—into powerful tools for change. As SñP Organic Products continues to grow, it’s clear that Maduna is well on her way to revolutionizing South Africa’s approach to sustainable farming and waste management.
By leading the charge with her pioneering work, Maduna is not only cultivating healthier soil but also nurturing a better future for her community—one worm at a time.
