Woodlands Shopping Centre has, over the years, quietly established itself as a trusted and convenient retail destination for residents in and around Mbabane.

Now, with an exciting expansion on the horizon, the centre is set to enter a new chapter, one that blends everyday convenience with enhanced lifestyle offerings, all closer to home.

The construction of centre began between 2015 and 2016, marking the start of a thoughtfully planned development aimed at meeting the daily needs of nearby communities. In 2017, the centre officially opened its doors to the public and quickly gained top-of-mind awareness as a reliable neighbourhood shopping destination.

What woodlands offers today

Strategically located within a 5km radius of the Mbabane CBD, between Mbangweni and Dalriach and easily accessible from the Mbabane–Oshoek Highway, the centre enjoys both convenience and connectivity. Developed and managed by the Eswatini Housing Board, it offers a well-balanced mix of essential services and retail outlets.

Shoppers currently enjoy access to a Shoprite anchor store, an Engen Filling Station, banking facilities, mobile network service providers, pharmacies, restaurants, a salon and a range of other everyday retail offerings.

Why expansion is necessary

As residential developments around Woodlands continue to grow, so too has the demand for more choice, convenience and lifestyle-focused amenities.

The decision to expand the centre is a strategic response to these evolving needs, aimed at improving customer satisfaction while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Community feedback has highlighted the desire for greater retail variety, enhanced dining options and a more modern shopping environment.

The expansion brings these improvements closer to home, reinforcing the centre’s role as a vibrant community hub that offers not just retail, but experiences that enrich everyday life.

What emaSwati can expect

The expansion promises a refreshed, modern and more vibrant shopping experience, designed with shoppers’ lifestyles in mind. Key highlights include:

Enhanced dining options: A two-level food court featuring Mugg & Bean on the first floor and Galito’s on the ground floor, offering comfortable spaces to dine and socialise.

Greater convenience: A new KFC Drive-Thru, optimally designed for easy access and on-the-go customers.

Expanded retail mix: The introduction of a Clicks store, strengthening the centre’s health and beauty offering.

Improved infrastructure: A new elevator connecting basement parking to the first floor, additional parking and a general facelift to enhance accessibility and overall aesthetics.

The proposed expansion of the centre, which will include a second floor that will have the likes of Mugg & Bean, Galito’s and a KFC Drive-Thru.

The proposed expansion of the centre which will include a second floor which will have the likes of Mug & Bean and Galitos.

The Woodlands Shopping Centre, managed by the Eswatini Housing Board, has been in operation from 2017 and this expansion looks to cater to the growing demand of the neighbouring areas. (Courtesy pics)