Property

Huge new shopping mall opening soon in one of South Africa’s oldest towns

Kirsten Minnaar • 2 March 2026

The new Prince Buthelezi Mall, a 37,000m² retail development, is set to open its doors in April 2026 in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal.

The multi-million-rand shopping centre is nearing completion and marks a major investment in the northern KwaZulu-Natal region.

It signals a new era of convenience-led, contemporary shopping for the Empangeni and Richards Bay area, with construction on track for the opening at the end of April 2026.

The Prince Buthelezi shopping mall is being developed by the Moolman Group in partnership with Twin City and Melta Capital.

The Moolman Group has a large property portfolio, which includes many major shopping centres, such as Mall of the North, Ferndale on Republic, Riverside Shopping Centre, and Village Mall.

Prince Buthelezi Mall is the result of an extensive development process undertaken over the past 15 months and the culmination of 4 years of planning.

The centre has been carefully designed to serve as a regional retail hub, offering a carefully curated mix of everyday essentials, fashion, food and leisure in a safe, accessible and climate-controlled environment.

With approximately 37,000 square metres of gross leasable area, the shopping mall will house around 90 stores.

Shops will include dual anchors, spanning supermarkets, fashion, restaurants, speciality retail offerings and drive-throughs, many of which will be a first in this area.

During construction, more than 2,000 workers have been employed, with many additional jobs expected as retailers begin trading.

In addition to the mall itself, the developers are investing over R90 million into upgrading the surrounding infrastructure, including the bridge and roads leading to the centre.

Close collaboration with local taxi associations is also underway to support efficient commuter access between the nearby CBD and the mall, supported by an on-site taxi rank and ample free parking.

This integrated approach reflects a long-term commitment to the area, positioning the mall as both a commercial catalyst and a practical addition to daily life in Empangeni.

The mall design

Inspired by the lush green hills of the area, Prince Buthelezi Mall blends modern design with a soothing upmarket aesthetic.

Inside, shoppers can look forward to comfortable communal seating areas, plenty of greenery, and a large entertainment space with a big-screen viewing area.

The mall will also offer free Wi-Fi, ample bathrooms, and a creative kids area where little shoppers can enjoy hours of play.

Plenty of parking bays, strong security measures and clear sightlines have been prioritised to create a calm and comfortable shopping experience.

The design focuses on flow, visibility and accessibility, ensuring the centre is easy to navigate and suited to both quick visits and longer stays.

As the opening approaches, the mall’s team noted that it has already begun engaging with the local community.

School tours are underway, and operational teams are actively preparing retailers and facilities for the launch, building familiarity and excitement ahead of the grand opening.

Prince Buthelezi Mall is envisioned as a first-class regional centre, featuring contemporary design, thoughtful amenities, and shared spaces where people can reconnect.

For the Empangeni region, it represents confidence in the area’s growth and a tangible step forward in its retail landscape.