Woodlands Shopping Centre damage at E120 000

MBABANE – The damage to Woodlands Shopping Centre has been estimated at E120 000 following the political unrest that led to vandalism and looting.

This was confirmed by Woodlands Shopping Centre Manager Nonkululeko Msibi, who said this was mostly on the shops’ front glasswork and signage and these were things that needed immediate attention before the shops could resume operations. She said the tenants had informed them that they were still assessing the loss incurred, but it was important to note that as the shops continued to be non- operational, the amount of loss continued to escalate.

“The landlord cannot make an accurate estimate of revenue as this information is tied to details still to be submitted by the respective tenants,” she said.

She informed the public that Shoprite Liquor was one of the shops that had reopened last week. When asked if all tenants had confirmed returning to the complex, she said that unfortunately one tenant had requested to be released from the lease agreement. She said this was due to the extensive damage suffered from the vandalism and looting.

“The tenant whom I unfortunately cannot reveal yet, indicated that they were stil l recovering from t he COVID- 19 effects which were a huge setback for them,” she said.

According to the manager, the Woodl ands Shopping Centre Management would be able to make an informed decision on how to assist the tenants once all tenants had submitted their reports on damages.

She added that they requested that the tenants provide a report of their losses to assist them in making an informed decision on possible assistance. About 20 shops were vandalised during the unrest.