Over 400 jobs will be created through two new developments that were unveiled by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda on 8 June.  They are the multimillion-rand Ntuzuma Junction in KwaNozaza and Ikhwani Junction in Inanda.

Combined, the new KwaNozaza Shopping Centre and Ikhwani Junction have seen an investment of R470 million and will create over 400 jobs. These vibrant commercial nodes are part of the City’s strategy to create employment and stimulate the township economy.

Mayor Kaunda said the two shopping centres will not only create permanent employment once completed but will also reduce the cost of transport for shoppers. 

“Residents of Ntuzuma and Mtshebheni will not have to travel to the city centre or uMhlanga to do their shopping. This will help them save on transport costs as the shopping centres are now within a walking distance. The two developments are a joint venture between Newly Star, Leopolder Property Development, and the Municipality and will change the face of these economic nodes,” he said.

Mayor Kaunda added that townships have the potential to drive economic growth in the City. He said this is one of the reasons the Municipality is focusing on creating industries near malls being developed in townships. 

“Entrepreneurship is another catalyst to drive growth of township economies. If we create a conducive environment for industries to thrive in townships, we will win the war against the escalating rate of unemployment,” said Mayor Kaunda.

During the launch of the developments, Mayor Kaunda also unveiled the new Road and Stormwater Department as a sub-regional depot facility.