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1 200 JOBS COMING IN E4BN MANZINI ARCH

27/09/2024 08:32:00 Sibusiso Zwane

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MANZINI - About 1 200 job opportunities will be created as African Alliance begins Phase I of the E4 billion Manzini Arch.

This was revealed by the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Manqoba Khumalo, yesterday, when he was handing over the site, (Manzini Golf Course), to African Alliance, to start the project. The minister said the Manzini Arch project is a transformative initiative that promises to redefine the country’s economic landscape and elevate the quality of life for the citizens.

He also highlighted that on May 23, 2023, His Majesty King Mswati III graciously cut the sod during his tour of the African Alliance projects in the Manzini/Malkerns corridor. He said that occasion marked the beginning of an ambitious journey – one that will see the development of 28 hectares of land, dedicated to a project that not only holds immense economic potential, but also embodies the country’s aspirations for a brighter future.

Investment

He said the Manzini Arch project represents a total investment of E4 billion, which is a demonstration of government’s unwavering commitment to fostering growth and development within the country’s economy. The minister said as they embark on the first phase of this project, which is estimated to cost between E1.4 billion and E1.6 billion, they recognise the opportunities that lie ahead - not just for the economy, but for the people of Manzini and beyond. “This project will introduce exciting amenities to our community, including the first KFC drive-thru in Manzini City, a modern hotel and a remarkable facility to be called ‘The Jewel’, which will house key government services, ensuring that citizens have access to essential resources in a convenient and efficient manner,” the minister said.

Project

He added that the first phase will include a public park, thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and suitable for people of all ages. He said the project will also provide retail spaces that will foster entrepreneurship and innovation, allowing local businesses to flourish. In terms of the construction process, he said preliminary groundwork for the project will commence shortly, with more extensive construction set to begin in February 2025. He said in the beginning, the project will engage 1 200 employees, providing much-needed job opportunities.

However, he said as the project progresses and expands, they anticipate creating even more employment opportunities, supporting their goal of reducing unemployment and enhancing the livelihoods of the citizens. “The first phase of the Manzini Arch project is expected to be completed within 24 months, and I assure you that we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency throughout this process. Together, we will create a landmark that not only meets the needs of our present generation, but also paves the way for future generations,” the minister added.

Meanwhile, African Alliance Partner S’thofeni Ginindza, said they are not building a mall, but a city in another city. He said the Manzini Arch project will change the landscape of the city of Manzini and on the same note, the minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade said those who do not believe that the country is going to attain First World status, should come to look at the appearance of the city of Manzini after 24 months - when the first phase of the project is complete. Ginindza said this project is one of the many that they carry out in the country and highlighted that its impact will be huge.

The African Alliance partner said it is easy to do things around in a small country like Eswatini, thus they believe their development will have a huge impact, through creation of jobs, among other things. “The project will create massive employment and business opportunities,” he added. On another note, he said the 150 apartments they built at Malkerns Square are fully occupied and they have started Phase II, which will also have the same number of apartments.