Oceans Umhlanga North Tower launch signals R2.7bn investment surge in KZN
Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development said the Oceans Umhlanga development has brought global attention to the potential of the province.
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KwaZulu-Natal is set to benefit from a R2.7 billion boost as the Oceans Umhlanga precinct officially launches its R1.4 billion North Residential Tower this Friday with an additional R1.3 billion leisure investment planned for the South Tower.
The North Tower forms part of the larger R4.3 billion Oceans Umhlanga Mixed-Use Development, which already includes the Oceans Mall and the five-star Radisson Blu Hotel.
“This is not just a property launch; it’s a celebration of how far Durban has come, and a reflection of the developers’ tenacity and unwavering perseverance,” said Brian Mpono, CEO of Oceans Umhlanga Development.
The North Tower comprises 258 high-end apartments ranging from studios to four-bedroom units, all with ocean-facing views. The building includes direct access to Oceans Mall, and features such as resort-style pools, concierge services, yoga zones, children’s play areas, inverter readiness, and ducted air-conditioning.
Mpono said the development was more than a luxury project. “The Oceans Umhlanga development has brought global attention to the potential of this province. We’re proud to now open the doors to a residential offering that reflects both international luxury standards and local ownership in a way South Africa has never seen before.”
The project, which prioritises transformation, has employed a workforce where around 50% are young Black South Africans. A significant number are young Black women.
In retail, 50% of Oceans Mall’s space is Black-owned, with 12 of its 14 restaurants operated by Black entrepreneurs. Over 25,000 jobs have been created during construction, many filled by residents from nearby areas, including Inanda, Ntuzuma, KwaMashu, and Blackburn.
“We are witnessing lives change in real time,” said Mpono. “Young people are securing jobs in flagship luxury boutiques. Women are running thriving restaurants. Fathers who once struggled to find stable employment are now part of reliable teams in logistics and security. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet, they represent families with renewed hope, dignity, and a real opportunity to participate in the economy.”
Mpono described the North Tower as a landmark in secure, long-term investment and confirmed that final economic impact figures would be shared during the launch. He added: “The completion of the Oceans Umhlanga Residential Towers is a vote of confidence from the developers confidence in Durban, in our people, and in the kind of future we can build when world-class investment meets authentic transformation.”
Friday’s launch will feature formal addresses by developers Vivian Reddy and Rob Alexander, the Mayor, the Premier, and economic analysts.