R352M Gcuwa Mall To Transform Butterworth’s Retail Scene

Butterworth, also known as Gcuwa, a town in the Eastern Cape Province, is poised for a major transformation with the development of the R352 million Gcuwa Mall. Strategically located along the N2 in the Amathole District, this state-of-the-art retail hub will serve as a central economic driver for the greater Mnquma Municipality and beyond.

The first phase of the project features a 17,000m² gross leasable area, including a modern retail centre, a drive-thru facility, a newly constructed taxi rank with kiosks for informal traders, and essential road infrastructure upgrades. Plans are already in place to expand the mall to 25,000m² in the near future.

Developed by Shenge Property Group in partnership with Luwie Properties, the Gcuwa Mall is more than just a shopping destination—it’s a catalyst for economic growth and community upliftment.

Seabelo Theledi, Group CEO of Shenge Property Group, emphasized the project’s broader impact: “Gcuwa Mall is designed to unlock economic opportunities and uplift local businesses. Our collaboration with Luwie Properties reflects our commitment to inclusive development, ensuring the benefits reach the broader Mnquma community.”

Zolisa Magocoba, Director of Luwie Properties, added, “This development will not only provide a world-class shopping experience but also create jobs and deliver vital services to the community. It’s a significant step toward addressing socio-economic challenges in the region.”

The construction of Gcuwa Mall is expected to generate 1,500 jobs, with 80% of these opportunities arising during the initial phase. Priority will be given to hiring local labour, ensuring direct economic benefits for residents. Once operational, the mall will create long-term employment in retail, property management, and maintenance sectors.

Beyond retail, the project will deliver critical infrastructure upgrades, including:

• Improved bulk services such as water, sewer, and electricity to support future growth.
• A new taxi rank with formalised facilities for commuters and informal traders.
• Relocation of the existing church to a modernised facility.
• Road network improvements, including upgrades to the main intersection and a new road parallel to the N2 highway.

The Gcuwa Mall will also bring socio-economic benefits to the Mnquma Municipality and surrounding towns like Idutywa, Kentani, and Cofimvaba. By aligning with the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform’s Comprehensive Rural Development Programme (CRDP), the project aims to:

• Provide improved access to retail, financial, and lifestyle services, reducing travel costs for residents.
• Offer a safe and structured environment for informal traders.
• Boost economic activity by attracting regional and national retailers.

The Gcuwa Mall is set to redefine Butterworth’s retail and economic landscape, creating a brighter future for the community.