Ngoni Dapira

A state-of-the-art shopping mall project, Quest Shoping Center, currently in its phase one (1) stage, is set to change the face of the industrial area in Mutare.

Featuring a mix of international and local brands and providing tailored leasing for local entrepreneurs, phase one (1) is nearing completion. During a tour on Monday of Quest Motor Manufacturing (QMM) situated along the Mutare- Masvingo Highway opposite the Sakubva turn off just after the Murahwa Market (Green Market), QMM general manager Carl Fernandes revealed that phase one of the project is almost done and they are targeting to officially open by the 1^st of July this year.

The entrance.

He said the shopping center will have nearly 200 small shops, retail shops, cafes, food courts and medical facilities ranging from pharmacies to private clinics—providing healthcare services like diagnosis, treatment and nursing care. Adding that Its retail partner Apex Auto will also have its showroom of the QMM assembled vehicles at the shopping centre.

He said the project will have five (5) phases of construction starting with the shopping center to other facilities like fuel stations, banks and modern departmental stores.

“Many modern malls are providing spaces for small-scale traders and boutiques. Modern infrastructure: projects focus on modern layouts, security and amenities, including solar power. This project is tailored in tandem with vision 2030 by the Second Republic government with milestones aimed at urban revitalization and economic growth. So we are aiming to decongest the central business district (CBD) in Mutare and provide all the services there,” said Fernandes.

Construction works in progress.

Located just adjacent to the QMM factory, Fernandes said Quest Shopping Center is set to provide a modern, flexible platform for entrepreneurs and startups to grow their ventures. Once just a bushy area within the QMM factory premises, the site will been transformed into a dynamic complex. The mall’s prime location along the highway ensures steady customer flow, giving small traders visibility in a competitive market. Fernandes said they have introduced flexible leasing options tailored to accommodate startups and micro-businesses, fusing enterprise and future-forward thinking.

Fernandes said the shopping center was designed with small businesses in mind. “We want to create a cutting-edge facility that also enhances the city’s visual appeal. This mall is set to become a central feature in the city’s economic and social life. Our team is working hard to ensure it’s equipped with modern infrastructure and provides an enabling environment,” said Fernandes.

He said the impact of the mall is expected to ripple beyond the business community. “By supporting small businesses, the mall will create jobs and stimulate the economy, ultimately improving livelihoods. We’re not just building a mall but  we are building a community,” he said.

Since 2024 Mutare is experiencing a wave of commercial development, with several new shopping complexes aimed at transforming local economies, promoting urbanization and creating jobs. The new malls are focusing on providing modern retail space for both large brands and small enterprises.