N$270 million mall to bring services closer to Katutura residents

The N$270 million Goreangab Shopping Mall is a joint venture between Oryx Properties and Safland Namibia, featuring up to 44 retail outlets. The development is expected to significantly improve access to essential goods and services for residents of this densely populated area.Speaking at the recent media launch, Safland Namibia CEO Kallie van der Merwe said that the mall will span 14 700 square metres on a 20 000-square-metre erf, making it roughly a quarter the size of Grove Mall.Since construction began in February 2025, the project has already created 350 jobs, and upon completion, the mall is expected to provide permanent employment for 520 people.Van der Merwe emphasised the socio-economic benefits of the project, particularly reduced transport costs for employees who previously had to travel long distances into the city for work. “Our business is about identifying needs and creating opportunities in under-serviced areas,” he said. “Katutura is one such area.”He added that securing financing and acquiring the land took around four years to finalise. Addressing misconceptions about shopping centres, Van der Merwe explained: “People often see malls as places that encourage spending, but think how many taxi trips it takes for someone here to do basic shopping. Imagine leaving home at 4 or 5 a.m. and returning at 8 p.m. carrying groceries. This development will make a massive difference in people’s lives.”Ben Jooste, Executive Director of Oryx Properties, confirmed that the project is only eight days behind schedule, a delay attributed to the unusually heavy rainy season earlier this year. However, construction remains on track.Jooste reported that 82% of the retail space has already been leased, with particularly high demand for banks and ATMs. Explaining the origins of the partnership, he said: “Oryx was looking to diversify its asset base by investing in underserved areas, while Safland had already secured the land and completed the conceptual design. It was a natural fit.”Under the agreement, Safland Namibia will oversee property and operational management, while Oryx Properties will handle asset management and provide financial backing. Jooste expressed pride in the mall’s design, which incorporates insights into traffic flow and consumer behaviour.“The design includes a dedicated taxi area at the base of the building, ensuring seamless access to the retail space above. It’s innovative and user-friendly,” he said.The mall also forms part of the wider Goreangab Waterfront development, which is set to include 2 500 residential homes.“The goal is to allow people to live, shop and access essential services within walking distance. That’s more than convenience; it’s about dignity and improved quality of life,” Jooste added.Shoprite will serve as the anchor tenant, alongside Hungry Lion, Ackermans, Pep Home, Style, Clicks, Pep Clothing, Woolworths, Foschini, Legit, Studio 88, and American Swiss, among others.

N$270 million mall to bring services closer to Katutura residents

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Republikein 2025-10-13

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N$270 million mall to bring services closer to Katutura residents

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