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Moolman Group, a Pretoria-based property development and asset management company co-founded and led by South African businessman Jannie Moolman, has started construction of the Prince Buthelezi Mall in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal.
The multi-million-dollar development, scheduled for completion in April 2026, is a joint investment with co-owners Twin City and Melta Capital. It aims to meet the growing demand for a central shopping destination that serves the town and surrounding communities.
Prince Buthelezi Mall project lands major retailers
Located at the town’s main crossroads, the Prince Buthelezi Mall will cover 35,000 square metres on a single enclosed level. It has already secured well-known tenants including Checkers FreshX, Shoprite, Woolworths, Boxer, Dis-Chem, and Clicks.
The project aims to create a place where people can shop, connect, and spend time together, while also representing a major investment in the region’s retail infrastructure.
Community-focused mall with local touch
Pierre Lahaye, partner at MDS Architecture, says the mall’s design was shaped by Empangeni’s surroundings. “The main entrance features curved shapes inspired by the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal, while vertical green slats at the entrances pay homage to the sugar cane fields in the area. Inside and out, the colour palette uses earthy tones and textures from local trees to create a strong sense of place,” he explains.
The mall will also bring several first-time retailers to Empangeni, including Crazy Plastic, Crazy Pets, Converse, and Polo. Shoppers will find a mix of fashion, banking services, a food court, a new taxi rank, and free parking. To ensure the project benefits the community, the developers are using local contractors and have pledged to upgrade surrounding roads for easier access.
From family venture to property powerhouse
Moolman Group’s roots go back 58 years, when it was founded in Polokwane by Jan Moolman with Friech and Jannie Moolman. What began as a small family venture has since grown into a property group that develops, owns, and manages projects across South Africa and abroad.
Today, the company oversees nearly 1.3 million square metres of gross lettable area across close to 100 properties. Under Jannie Moolman, it remains one of the country’s most active developers, taking on projects that continue to shape South Africa’s retail landscape.
