A major new retail hub is rising in eMalahleni in Mpumalanga, with construction officially underway – and on track – on the 37 000m² Jumbo Mall – a R1.3 billion development set to open in March 2026.
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Developed by New Africa Developments (NAD) in partnership with Investec, the mall promises to transform the city’s retail landscape and boost local employment, offering a contemporary shopping experience just 500 metres from the eMalahleni CBD.
Retail revival for eMalahleni
Once complete, Jumbo Mall will house over 100 stores, anchored by Shoprite, Boxer, Dis-Chem, and Clicks.
The tenant mix will include popular national brands such as Mr Price, Foschini, Jet, Ackermans, and PEP, providing a wide range of options for consumers.
The mall’s food court will feature household names like KFC, Hungry Lion, Chicken Licken, Debonairs, and Roman’s Pizza, alongside new local eateries.
It will also include free Wi-Fi, live entertainment broadcasts, and well-lit power-secure zones designed to remain operational during load shedding.
Accessible and sustainable design
Situated on the R544, just off the N4 highway, the development occupies a 120 000m² site linking eMalahleni’s industrial and residential areas.
It will offer 1 500 free parking bays and dedicated taxi facilities, ensuring easy access for motorists and commuters alike.
The mall will feature green energy solutions, including a large solar PV system, LED lighting, energy-efficient air conditioning, and water-saving Propelair toilets that reduce consumption by up to 70%.
A building management system will track and optimise the mall’s energy use in real time, cutting operational costs and minimising environmental impact.
Economic lifeline for the local community
The project is expected to create 2 500 temporary construction jobs and 800 permanent positions once the centre opens.
According to NAD, a strong focus has been placed on hiring local subcontractors and suppliers to ensure that much of the economic benefit stays within the community.
“Jumbo Mall has been designed to serve the community in the fullest sense – as both a retail and social destination,” said Charl Scott, Property Executive at NAD.
“We wanted to create a place where people can shop, connect and feel a real sense of pride in their city’s growth.”
NAD Managing Director Robin Houghton said the mall marks a significant milestone in eMalahleni’s urban development.
“Developments like Jumbo Mall extend far beyond bricks and mortar – they strengthen local economies, create opportunity and foster community pride,” he said.
A new landmark for Mpumalanga
Architecturally, Jumbo Mall will feature an E-shaped layout, four entrances, and an eye-catching 140m² LED screen – one of the largest in South Africa – overlooking the main facade.
The design combines modern finishes with local character, creating a space that celebrates both progress and community.
Once completed, Jumbo Mall is expected to become a central hub for commerce and entertainment in Mpumalanga, offering residents a modern, sustainable and inclusive retail experience – and positioning eMalahleni as a growing economic powerhouse in the province.
