By: Thobele Nzama

The eThekwini Municipality executive council gave the KwaMnyandu Shopping Centre in Umlazi a thumbs up as they officially launched it on Thursday.

The R273 million project is located at the centre of a growing node as recognised by the Municipality and as a result, will see long-term sustainability. Its situation certifies the benefit of most people as it was designed to be easily accessible. This means that people will be able to either walk, drive or travel by train as it is subway integrated.

Deputy Mayor, Nomvuso Shabalala, explained the importance of the municipality’s involvement in the shopping center’s construction.

“We have to ensure that all security measures are implemented as to avoid what happened in Tongaat while a mall was being erected. The municipality did not know about its construction and as a result, look what happened,” Shabalala said.

The birds eye view of the shopping centre and the Umlazi Township. Pictures by: Thobele Nzama

Shabalala was referring to the Tongaat Mall which collapsed last year. Investigations as to what actually transpired are still under way. The tragedy claimed two lives and left 29 others injured.

Train commuters will also get a tightened security experience in the multi-storied mall as access to the station will now pass through it. The shopping centre will have banks, entertainment centres and a host of most mainstream restaurants.