by Ncaba Ntshakala
The Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo has officially handed over the E4 billion Manzini Arch Project to African Alliance.
The ambitious project, set to transform the economic landscape of Manzini City and beyond, was hailed as a demonstration of the Kingdom’s continued dedication to enhancing growth and development.
At the heart of this transformative initiative are several modern amenities, including the first KFC drive-thru in Manzini, a state-of-the-art hotel, and a remarkable facility named “The Jewel,” which will house key government services.
Khumalo emphasized that the project would elevate the quality of life for emaSwati while spurring economic activity.
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“Today, we witness the site handover for the Manzini Arch Project, a transformative initiative that promises to redefine our economic landscape and elevate the quality of life for all our citizens,” he said.
Khumalo highlighted the project’s symbolic and economic significance, recalling how His Majesty King Mswati III had cut the sod for the project on May 26, 2023, during his tour of African Alliance’s developments along the Malkerns-Manzini corridor.
“This important occasion marked the beginning of an ambitious journey—a journey that will see the development of 28 hectares of land, dedicated to a project that not only holds immense economic potential but also embodies our aspirations for a brighter future,” he stated.
With a total investment of E4 billion, the Manzini Arch Project is projected to catalyze growth in various sectors.
The first phase, valued between E1.4 billion and E1.6 billion, will see the development of public spaces, including a park designed to be inclusive for all ages, retail spaces to support local entrepreneurship, and the creation of over 1,200 jobs in its initial stages.
“Preliminary groundwork will commence shortly, with more extensive construction set to begin in February 2025,” Khumalo added.
Moreover, the project was said to be not only about economic stimulation but it is also about creating spaces for the community to come together and thrive.
The first phase will incorporate a public park, offering a place for relaxation and recreation. Meanwhile, retail spaces will enhance entrepreneurship and innovation, allowing local businesses to flourish and serve the growing population.
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Again, beyond the construction of commercial and recreational spaces, Khumalo emphasized the development of “The Jewel,” a world-class building that will house essential government services.
This will ensure that Manzini’s residents have easy access to critical resources in a modern and efficient setting.
Khumalo also touched on a notable addition to the city’s recreational offerings which is the development of a new 18-hole golf course, set to replace the current 9-hole facility.
“An alternative site for a golf course in Manzini has been identified, and arrangements have been made to ensure that registered members of the Manzini Golf Club can continue playing at other golf courses during the construction period,” he said, expressing confidence that the new course would be operational within 2 to 3 years.
With the progression of the Manzini Arch Project, Khumalo reassured stakeholders of the government’s devotion to quality and efficiency, with the first phase expected to be completed within 24 months.
“Together, we will create a landmark that not only meets the needs of our present but also paves the way for future generations,” he concluded.
