Major shopping mall opens in South Africa’s capital city

Soshanguve Mall, built on the site of the original Soshanguve Plaza, has opened its doors to the town’s growing population and is expected to create 3,700 jobs. 

Home to over 906,000 people, Soshanguve is becoming a major contributor to Gauteng’s economy, with the township increasingly operating as an independent ‘city’. 

Situated 30 kilometres north of Pretoria, the area has been historically underdeveloped, with it being established as a township for black workers during Apartheid. 

The name “Soshanguve” itself is a tribute to the Sotho, Shangaan, Nguni and Venda tribes that were resettled from Mamelodi and Atteridgeville in 1974.

The development, construction, and now, opening of Soshanguve Mall aims to change this reality by bringing retailers, jobs, and basic services closer to residents. 

Soshanguve Mall began as an idea in 2012, creating more than 2,000 jobs during construction and development, with local suppliers, contractors, and service providers prioritised throughout the build. 

The 55,500 m² double-tiered retail centre, which replaces the original Soshanguve Plaza, represents one of the most significant redevelopments in recent years.

In addition, 30% to 40% of the workforce received training or upskilling, ensuring that skills development became a cornerstone of the project. 

As the mall opens to trade, the space is expected to unlock more than 3,700 permanent employment opportunities, giving the surrounding communities a renewed sense of economic possibility.

“We recognised the economic potential of Soshanguve as far back as 2012,” said Cubisol managing director Andre von Bulow, the investment company behind the development.

“This mall was never only about retail; it was about creating a space that belongs to the people, built with them and for them.”

Empowerploy stakeholder engagement specialist Patrick Moraka has been instrumental in ensuring that community inclusion remained central to every phase of development.

“It was our responsibility from the very beginning to ensure that no one was left behind,” Moraka explained. 

“That included local businesses, young people looking for opportunity, or community organisations like the Taxi Association.” 

“I am proud to say that this mall represents a stepping stone; a place where people can grow, trade, and thrive. We’ve created a space where livelihoods are supported, and micro-economies can flourish.”

Situated within a 2,000-hectare heritage site, Soshanguve is home to the globally recognised Tswaing Meteorite Crater. 

Elements and conscious details in the mall’s design recognise and celebrate this natural wonder, with circular architectural elements that mirror the crater’s form. 

Educational and interactive spaces within the mall also share the story of the meteorite’s impact and the rich cultural history of the area.

Soshanguve Mall’s tenant mix includes Shoprite, Mr Price, TFG, Edgars, Cashbuild, SPAR, Capitec, PEP, Ackermans, KFC, Woolworths, and Liquor City.

“This mall is a long-awaited community milestone. A space where people can gather, grow, and build futures. We’ve made an investment in people, and now, the doors are open,” Von Bulow said.  

“The mall is ready, and the community has waited long enough. We have no doubt that an exciting new era for Soshanguve’s future starts here.”

Images of Soshanguve Mall