New Elandskop shopping centre complex set to boost economy

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28-11-2025
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The Witness
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The development is set to bring long-awaited convenience, jobs and essential services to the rural community.

A R50 million investment is expected to boost Elandskop as construction of the KwaMafunze shopping centre is set to begin soon.

The development is set to bring long-awaited convenience, jobs and essential services to the rural community.

Jobs and development for locals

The centre, which will span 3 314m², is expected to create approximately 150 permanent jobs once it opens, with a further 200 employment opportunities during construction.

Local community members will be prioritised for both phases of employment. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is expected to be completed in October 2026.

AH Projects is the appointed contractor, while Resilient Developments (PTY) LTD is the developer.

Project manager Tony Hayman (AH Projects) said the centre is being developed by a Durban-based developer specialising in rural shopping centre development.

He added that the project aims to bring convenience shopping closer to residents, many of whom currently travel long distances to Pietermaritzburg for groceries and basic services.

It’s about convenience shopping and bringing financial and other services closer to the community, including creating a place for people to meet and do business.

Hayman added that construction will commence once plans are approved by the Msunduzi Municipality.

The centre will feature a strong line-up of national tenants, including: Boxer; Boxer Liquor; Ackermans; PEP; Debonairs; Hungry Lion; Standard Bank; Beauty Zone; and ATMs.

He added that the presence of these brands is expected to significantly benefit the local community by offering products and services currently only accessible in the Pietermaritzburg CBD.

Construction manager Ekemu Chinyauro said that they are committed to working with the local community.

It is our mandate to try and utilise as many local businesses and labour as possible. If this community has what we need for the project, we welcome you to submit quotations before we outsource. Those who would like to do in-service training can forward their CVs, but we will have a limited number.

He added that subcontractors must provide references that prove their capability.

Ward councillor Bukelani Zuma welcomed the development, urging residents to support the project.

“I want to urge the community to welcome this project with warm hands and not disrupt the process, as it is here to develop the area,” he said.

KwaMafunze chief Maviyo Ngcobo also expressed strong support for the development.

He welcomed the project as a long-overdue investment that will uplift families, strengthen the local economy and bring dignity through jobs and accessible services.

The chief said that such developments play a vital role in stabilising rural communities and giving young people opportunities closer to home.

Shakes Ngcobo said the land, owned by the Ngcobo family of the Jangaza generation, was donated for the project.

"We didn’t sell the land but had agreements with the developers. This project is not for the Ngcobo clan to benefit, but for everyone from the area and surrounding."