Africa-Press – Eswatini. The construction of the much awaited state-of the-art Manzini Mall set to be built at the Old Trade Fair will commence in July.
The latest development is bound to bring some positives to the country in terms of job creation and economic recovery. Construction of the mall will cost E2 billion.This was disclosed by Eswatini Investment Promotion Authority (EIPA) Senior Executive-Investment Promotion Dr Khanyisile Dlamini.
Dlamini affirmed that the construction of the mall still stands.
“It is set to commence from the second half of this year.
“The estimated period for completion is 24 months,” said Dr Dlamini. She said there had been no delays, but rather the completion of some critical action items such as engagements with key stakeholders and their buy-in for the success of the project were being dealt with.
She said EIPA was pleased to state that all the stakeholders were in agreement and construction would begin soon.
Assist
When probed if the country could expect more of such projects in the near future to assist in reviving the economy after the far reaching effects of COVID-19, she said: “There are a number of projects that are in the pipeline, as you may have noticed the number of shopping malls that are being constructed throughout the country.”
According to a sketch of the structure, the new development could be three times the size of the Bhunu Mall, which is a stone throw away from it and will consist two levels of shopping centres, a cinema, museum, children’s playing centre and a bridge that will cross the Mzimnene River and connect the centre to parts of the Mavuso Trade Centre.
The state-of-the-art project was unveiled by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo during an event at the Royal Swazi Sun Convention Centre. EIPA Chief Executive Officer, Sibani Mngomezulu highlighted the importance of such investments in the country especially in the current economic climate and in the interest of future sustainability.
Mngomezulu said bringing investment into Eswatini was an important part of reviving the country’s economy after the effects of COVID-19 on global economic indicators.
This project will have an immediate advantage by providing employment to surrounding communities, while also contributing to Eswatini’s gross domestic product (GDP).
The development will not only add to Manzini’s economic and aesthetic value, but will also bring the much needed road infrastructure improvements to the city. The roads leading to the mall will be improved to allow for increased traffic volumes in and around the area.
A taxi and bus transport hub will also form part of the construction project, making the mall easily accessible to those who use public transport to access the facility.
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