This is according to the mayor of the Maruleng Municipality, Tsheko Musolwa. He was speaking at a sod-turning ceremony for the proposed Maruleng Mall held on Friday, March 3. Musolwa, the municipal manager Nanki Hoaeane, and Mazvita Maradzika of Selective Empowerment Investment 1 (SEI 1), a listed investment fund, attended the ceremony. “The new 9000m² Maruleng Mall is anchored by the Checkers Group, the Foschini Group, Mr. Price Group, and the Clicks Group, with fashion and clothing retail adding to the experience,” said Robert Hare of Bruce Kirchmann Construction and Hebrides Investments.
“The mall will provide for the needs of the tourism industry in the area as well as cater to the needs of the greater Hoedspruit area. It will offer a safe, familyorientated shopping experience, with entertainment in the form of restaurants to add value to the experience,” Hare said. The second phase will add an extra 3000m². “The mall has been designed by LPA Architects with a specific brief to maintain the Hoedspruit feel as much as possible. Solar energy, grey water recovery, and energy efficient designs are the norms,” he said.
Also read: Hoedspruit Mall expected to open September 2023
According to him, particular attention is being given not to detract from the ‘Hoedspruit’ atmosphere and to retain as much of the natural vegetation as possible. “Unfortunately, some original vegetation needed to be removed to allow construction, but certain trees will be retained, and new vegetation reinstated in keeping with the guidance and supervision of Sue Lankers,” he said. The mall will open at the end of October 2023. In his address, the mayor commented on the need to create employment for Hoedspruit/Maruleng residents. To this end, the developer agreed to set up a forum whereby residents of the area can submit resumes proposed for both the construction and the operational phases.
“Preference will be given to local residents and local companies if the skills are available,” he said. SEI 1, a fund that started as a stokvel and is now listed on the stock market, is a partner in the development. “They are a strong black fund with roots in Limpopo and other provinces and see this as an opportunity to give back to their members and the public at large. The mall will be a modern, eco-friendly, energy-efficient, safe, and inviting center for all,” he said. “We wish to thank the Hoedspruit people for their involvement and support, and we commit to our service to them,” said Maradzika.
