By Celani Sikhakhane
The business sector has fulfilled late Zulu King Zwelithini’s dream of honouring Princess Mkabayi kaJama with a state-of-the-art shopping centre at her army base in ebaQulusini, Vryheid, in the north of KwaZulu-Natal.
Princess Mkabayi kaJama is recognised as one of the most powerful feminists in history, and this shopping centre is a tribute to her legacy.
The Moolman Group, which is building the centre, says the Princess Mkabayi Mall is 80% close to completion.
Breaking of the ground for the mall was performed in October 2021 by the late Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, the business mogul Roux Shabangu and others.
Prince Buthelezi had high hopes of cutting the ribbon for the opening of the mall, due for completion in October 2024.
Princess Mkabayi was an aunt of King Shaka and became a regent after the passing of his father, Inkosi Jama. She then prepared the throne for his brother Inkosi Senzangakhona kaJama, a father to King Shaka.
She is described as playing a vital role in building the Zulu kingdom with the assistance of her father’s wife, Queen Mthaniya Sibiya.
The mall has created 3,500 jobs and cost R600 million.
Pictured above: The Princess Mkabayi Mall being constructed in Vryheid.
Image source: Moolman Group
