By Charmaine Ndlela
A major retail development and a R32 million technology hub upgrade are taking shape in Ntuzuma, with the projects expected to create jobs, expand business opportunities and improve access to retail and digital services.
Construction is under way on the more than R200 million Ntuzuma Mall in Ward 42, alongside the R32 million upgrade of the KwaNozaza ICT Hub.
The mall, which eThekwini Municipality describes as an 18 000-square-metre private-sector development, forms part of the City’s broader efforts to stimulate economic activity, create employment and improve access to services in township communities.
Exemplar REITail, which owns a 70% stake in the mall development, has previously said the centre will have approximately 19 000 square metres of gross lettable area and is expected to open at the end of March 2027.
The Ntuzuma Mall was unlocked through the eThekwini Development Planning and Facilitation (EDPF) process as a neighbourhood centre and retail development.
The mall will be anchored by Shoprite and Boxer and will also include line shops, internal and external walkways and supporting road, paving and landscaping infrastructure.
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For residents, the development is expected to bring additional retail services closer to the community while creating opportunities for employment and local businesses.
The construction site is also being used to provide practical experience to local youth who have received vocational training.
Skills being applied in the live construction environment include plumbing, electrical installations, bricklaying, plastering and tiling.
An earlier eThekwini Municipality publication said 100 young people participated in a three-month vocational training programme, with many earmarked for placement on infrastructure projects in the area.
The Municipality said the mall development is intended to ensure that infrastructure investment also creates economic and skills-development opportunities for local communities.
Deputy Director: Programme Co-ordination Nkululeko Mkhize said the mall represented a significant private-sector investment in Ntuzuma.
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“The Ntuzuma Mall development, supported by the eThekwini Municipality, represents a significant 18 000-square-metre private sector project aimed at boosting the local economy and empowering local SMEs. Key highlights include the creation of hundreds of construction jobs for local youth and the integration of small businesses alongside major retailers upon its 2027 completion, fostering long-term sustainability through inclusive development.”
The Municipality said the mall aligns with its strategic priority of Economic Growth and Job Creation while contributing towards more efficient and inclusive spatial development.
Alongside the mall, the R32 million KwaNozaza ICT Hub upgrade is progressing, with the facility being developed into a modern technology and innovation space.
The upgraded hub is intended to expand access to digital opportunities in the community, including digital skills development, innovation spaces and improved connectivity.
EThekwini said it views the two investments as catalysts for economic inclusion, spatial transformation and local development, particularly in township communities where access to economic opportunities remains a priority.
The Municipality said it would continue working with relevant stakeholders to ensure the developments contribute to local economic participation, skills development and improved services and facilities for Ntuzuma and surrounding communities.
