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Harrismith R3bn development promises thousands of jobs

───   SIYAKHOLWA MBATYAZWA 08:56 Sun, 25 Oct 2026

Harrismith R3bn development promises thousands of jobs | News Article
The development of R3bn in Harrismith promises thousands of jobs. Photo: Calvin and Family Group

A planned mixed-use development in Wilgepark, Harrismith, is expected to create between 1,500 and 2,000 construction jobs and between 500 and 800 permanent positions once fully operational.

The R3bn development by Calvin and Family Group will include retail, hospitality, commercial, and residential facilities. The project was officially handed over on Friday (23/10) by Maluti-a-Phofung municipality executive mayor, Tumelo Thebe, and Thabo Mofutsanyana municipality mayor, Conny Msibi, marking a milestone in the development.

The investment was expected to contribute to the region’s long-term development by creating employment opportunities, supporting business growth and attracting further investment. “The vision is to establish a destination that serves the community while boosting economic activity in Harrismith, said Thebe”

“The development could boost economic activity, create jobs, support local businesses and promote skills development in the region,” said Msibi.

Cllr. Conny Msibi, cllr. Tumelo Thebe, ande Calvin Mathibeli. Photo: Calvin and Family Group

Calvin and Family Group said the development would comprise five components: Waterfront Mall, Waterfall Precinct, The Levels Hotel, The Kraal Estate and The Kraal Apartments. The facilities are expected to offer retail, hospitality, residential and commercial opportunities for Harrismith, surrounding rural communities and travellers.

The development is expected to create jobs in construction, retail, hospitality, security, property management and maintenance. The project could also create opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and small businesses while supporting skills development and economic growth.

The group said the development could attract further investment, support tourism and business activity, and create employment opportunities for Harrismith residents and local businesses.

“The scale of this investment presents an important opportunity for the district to strengthen its economic base and attract further development. Beyond the infrastructure, we are encouraged by the potential for job creation, opportunities for local suppliers and the growth of businesses that can support the project.”

Calvin Mathibeli, chairman of Calvin and Family Group, said the development aimed to create an integrated destination where people could shop, work, live and access hospitality services while providing opportunities for local businesses and communities.

It is expected to contribute to economic development in the Maluti-a-Phofung region, although its impact will depend on the project’s progress, the jobs created and the opportunities made available to local businesses and communities.

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