The owners of Mansa Mall have announced plans to demolish the shopping complex after persistent operational and financial challenges rendered its continued existence unsustainable.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, the mall’s Operational Manager, Mr. Levin’s Situnyama, revealed that the decision follows extensive internal deliberations and consultations with relevant stakeholders.
“Despite our continued efforts to address operational issues, we have faced repeated demands for additional measures that have resulted in significant financial losses. We have implemented council and court-recommended changes, but new directives kept coming, each requiring further expenditure,” Situnyama said.
The mall’s anchor tenant, Choppies Supermarket, has reportedly suffered heavy losses, particularly due to the spoilage of perishable goods such as fruits and vegetables. Choppies occupies three of the mall’s 37 operational shops, making its planned exit a major blow to the facility’s viability.
Situnyama explained that the company had engaged both the local council and the provincial administration in efforts to resolve the challenges, but those discussions yielded no meaningful solutions.
“We have presented our concerns at every stage from construction to operations but regrettably, our engagements have not led to tangible progress. The current circumstances have made it impractical for us to continue operating the mall,” he added.
With the anchor tenant preparing to vacate, management has concluded that the mall can no longer function effectively. Notices will soon be issued to all tenants to vacate the premises before demolition begins.
“The situation we face today, combined with all the challenges over the years, has left us with no choice but to close and demolish the facility,” Situnyama stated.
SOURCE: Mansa TVAugust 24, 2025.