New shopping mall named after a politician opening in South Africa this month

 ·10 Apr 2026

Prince Buthelezi Mall in Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal, will officially open its doors later this month, bringing a host of nationwide retailers to the area for the first time.

The mall is named after Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who was the traditional prime minister of the Zulu royal family, the founder of the IFP, and the former Minister of Home Affairs.

The mall will open its doors on Thursday, 30 April. The mall will span about 37,000 sqm and will house roughly 100 stores, offering a selection of grocery, fashion, health, dining and everyday essentials.

Well-known brands coming to the mall include Boxer, Checkers Fresh X, Checkers Liquor, Clicks, Dis-Chem, Edgars, Foschini, Roots Butchery, Shoprite and Woolworths Food.

Other popular brands include Billabong, Crazy Plastics, Mugg & Bean, Milky Lane, Mr Price Home, Panarottis, Polo, SENQU, Sorbet, Sportsman’s Warehouse and Xpresso Café.

Many of the brands will open in the Empangeni and Richards Bay area for the first time. The mall will also be home to three drive-thrus for Burger King, Steers and McDonald’s.

At the centre of the mall lies the food court, which is known as The Social Quarter. The space has been designed as a place for people to unwind, surrounded by abundant greenery.

The Social Quarter space includes a dedicated children’s play area, a giant chess set, and workstations for those needing a place to catch up on work or study.

A seating area with charging pods has been set up, allowing visitors to recharge their devices. The mall will also have free Wi-Fi throughout.

Fit for a Prince

Mangosuthu Buthelezi in his later years (Source: Bloomberg)

The mall has been designed to offer a seamless and comfortable experience from arrival to departure. The Moolman Group is developing the mall in partnership with Twin City and Melta Capital.

The mall features clear layouts, ample parking and a strong focus on safety and accessibility, which will ensure that visitors can move through the space with ease.

To improve ease of access, there are two entrances on the R102, with quick access from the N2 and R102 off-ramps.

A taxi rank and public transport facilities have also been provided. Additionally, unlike nearby centres, the modern bathrooms with luxury finishes are free for shoppers to use. 

The opening on 30 April coincides with a long weekend, which will allow visitors to enjoy the centre together. The opening will feature live entertainment and a series of opening specials.


Renderings and Images of Prince Buthelezi Mall


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