Once a proud symbol of progress, Amogela Mall, formerly known as Liberty Centre, now stands as a crumbling reminder of Welkom’s declining city center.
The mall’s rapid deterioration has become an alarming symbol of neglect, sparking concern among residents and business owners.
At its peak, the mall was a bustling hub – a go-to destination for shopping, entertainment, and social gatherings. Today, its shattered windows and decaying walls serve as a stark reminder of the growing crime and lawlessness in the area.
“It’s painful to watch such an important part of our city’s history fall apart,” says Cosmos Tsaoane, a retired teacher who used to play chess with friends at the mall every weekend.
“What used to be a clean, safe, and vibrant city is now marked by fear. We no longer feel secure, even in the day.”
In recent years, Amogela Mall has become a hotspot for criminal activity. Residents have reported incidents of daylight robbery, vandalism, drug transactions, and even prostitution occurring within the mall’s premises.
Business owners near the mall share the frustration of residents, citing the mall’s decay as detrimental to their livelihoods. One foreign business owner, who preferred not to be named, noted that the area’s rising crime has been driving customers away.
“Our customers are afraid to move around the mall because of safety concerns and crime. It’s nearly impossible to run a business when people are scared to even pass by.”
Other business owners are also sounding the alarm about the potential dangers posed by the mall’s structural integrity.
“The building is not just an eyesore; it presents significant structural risks. If left unchecked, there’s a possibility of collapse, endangering lives,” the business owner warned.
A recent fire in the abandoned mall further exacerbates the obvious structural defects, which can be seen by the untrained eye.
Local government officials, including the Matjhabeng Municipality, have faced criticism for perceived inaction in addressing the mall’s deterioration. Despite repeated pleas from residents and businesses, it seems little progress has been made.
Attempts to reach Tshidiso Tlali, spokesperson for Matjhabeng Municipality, for comment were unsuccessful.
– Wesley Manako, community reporter
