Windhoek: A new shopping and transport hub aimed at bringing retail services closer to Katutura residents officially opened to the public on Friday, with developers describing Goreangab Mall as a N.dollars 270 million investment expected to transform the area economically and socially.
According to Namibia Press Agency, developers Oryx Properties Limited and Safland Property Group stated in a joint statement that Goreangab Mall represents a significant investment into the heart of one of Windhoek's most vibrant districts. The 14,700-square-metre retail centre, situated in Goreangab, features more than 40 tenants, including Shoprite, Clicks, Ackermans, Jet, Markhams, OK Furniture, and Cash Crusaders.
The developers highlighted that the project created approximately 340 construction jobs and 360 permanent positions. During the opening, Safland Property Group Leasing Director, Charles Fourie, mentioned that the mall was developed to improve access to quality shopping experiences for residents who previously had to travel long distances into central Windhoek.
Fourie emphasized the broader impact of the development, suggesting that it is expected to stimulate further investment in the area, akin to what followed the establishment of The Grove Mall in Windhoek. He projected significant changes in the area over the next five years.
Community members who attended the opening expressed appreciation for the development, noting that it would reduce transport costs and create employment opportunities. Hidipo Moses, a temporary cleaner employed at the mall, expressed pride and optimism about the development's impact on the community, highlighting the convenience it brings in terms of access to shopping and services.
Maria Huises, another resident, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the cost-saving benefits on transport expenses. Retailers at the mall showed optimism about shopper responses on the opening day. Themba Mosegedi, Assistant Store Manager at Clicks Goreangab Mall, pointed out the convenience for residents who no longer need to travel far for basic necessities.
Bank Windhoek, which opened a digital branch at the mall, described the facility as part of efforts to enhance accessibility to banking services within communities. The developers also noted that the mall includes an integrated public transport hub designed to improve accessibility and commuter safety.
Goreangab Mall is part of the broader Goreangab Waterfront Development, which is expected to include 2,500 residential units in the future.