Our Story
The story of fire is as old as time. Ours kicked off shortly after.
Border of South Africa & Namibia | 17th July 2021
De Hoop, Richtersveld
Three friends came together from across Africa to meet around a fire.
Disconnected
Exploring Simplicity
After years of overlanding and too many scorched fingers, bent backs, and snapped tongs, three friends reached their boiling point. That night, around a fire, the idea for a better grilling tool sparked to life. Not just a tong; a long tong. One that could handle the heat, survive the road, and crack open a beer without flinching.
'Long Tong' Needed A Name
That night, between coals and laughter, they searched for something that captured toughness, reliability, and hard work. Only one creature fit the bill... the Donkey. With no Wi-Fi, no signal, and nothing but time, the three friends grabbed sticks and started drawing in the sand. And just like that, under African skies, the mark of the Donkey was born.
the hoof of the donkey
Heading home
Starting The Brand
They hit the road, weaving down the West Coast, with the idea bouncing between fires and beers. One joke after another, Donkey Long Tong this, Donkey Long Tong that, and suddenly it stuck. By the time they reached Cape Town, the grind had begun.
Kitchen workshop
The First 300 Tongs
The first 300 tongs were made on an Airbnb kitchen counter. After sleepless nights and a lot more fires, Donkey Long Tong officially launched on 24 September 2021 - South African Braai Day. A great way to celebrate South African Heritage.
QUALITY MATTERS
We source and assemble the highest quality materials. Our handmade Braai tongs are built to last.
Come to our factory space to find out how we make our products.
Join the Donkey Family
We follow in the foot prints of the donkey; humble, reliable and hard working. Get in touch about joining the team, we are hiring.
