By …….It promises an economic boost
Ncaba Ntshakala
ncaban.@rubiconmedia.group
Blooming opportunities in Hlane! His Majesty King Mswati III officiated the groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, heralding the commencement of construction for a multi-billion Emalangeni mega project in Hlane.
The ambitious endeavour, encompassing a world-class Information Communication and Technology (ICT) hub, academic hospital, university, and more, is poised to revolutionise the economic landscape of the region.
The King launched the project after a tour at the Hlane Roadside Motel just a few kilometres from the anticipated mega billion Emalangeni project.
Presenting the scope of the project to the King, Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya revealed that the initiative, which she developed before becoming a minister, will be undertaken in partnership with WBHO Construction. The construction company is a renowned entity with an impressive portfolio spanning various countries, including the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa.
Economic Growth
Notable projects by WBHO Construction include the iconic Mall of Africa in Midrand, Moses Mabhida Stadium, Menlyn Centre in Pretoria, and King Shaka International Airport.
Minister Maziya emphasised that the project would catalyse economic growth in Hlane, promising a surge in economic activity within the region. The centrepiece of the development, an academic hospital, is envisioned to revolutionise healthcare delivery by adopting electronic patient records, paving the way for a seamless transition towards digital transformation.
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Additionally, the project encompasses a university, a biomedical research centre, an ICT hub, and student accommodations capable of housing 5,000 students.
The hospital, boasting 500 beds, is poised to cater to the healthcare needs of the community and beyond. In a bid to promote tourism, a world-class hotel with 80 beds will be erected, offering tourists an opportunity to experience the splendour of the burgeoning megacity at Hlane.
Embracing eco-friendly construction practices, the project aims to harmonise modern amenities with environmental sustainability. Minister Maziya outlined the comprehensive nature of the project, revealing plans for subsequent phases that will include an entertainment facility and additional projects.
Investors
Expressing gratitude to the investors for their commitment to the development of Hlane, she underscored the potential for job creation and economic empowerment within the region.
Expressing his gratitude and approval for the project, His Majesty King Mswati III extended his blessings for the commencement of construction. He commended Minister Maziya for her unwavering commitment to economic development and praised her efforts in attracting investors to the country.
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Emphasising the transformative impact of such initiatives on the nation’s economic growth, the King reaffirmed his support for the project’s success.
During the proceedings, His Majesty King Mswati III further elicited laughter from the audience with his witty remarks regarding the naming of the project. The King hinted that the name of the project would be revealed during its official launch.
Name
The Minister of Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) Savannah Maziya had previously informed the King that a name had been proposed for the project, pending approval and blessing from His Majesty.
However, before any further details could be disclosed, the King interjected with a playful comment, exclaiming, “Cha, kwamanje asimele le-launch alibe yimfihlo,” which translates to “No, for now, let us wait for the launch, let it be a secret.”
As a token of appreciation, the Minister presented four cows to His Majesty on behalf of the investors. With the commencement of construction, the multi-billion Emalangeni mega project at Hlane stands poised to redefine the economic landscape and propel the Lubombo region into a more economic hub.
The region currently harbours the multi-billion sugar belt with three sugar factories which pumps in billions in revenue for the Kingdom of Eswatini. Also, Lubombo has a successful agricultural initiative done by both large and small-scale farmers.
