In a significant rebranding effort, the Nicolway Shopping Centre in Johannesburg’s upscale Bryanston district has been officially renamed the Winifred Mandela Precinct. This change, spearheaded by Akani Properties, reflects a deeper cultural shift towards recognising influential South African figures in the commercial spaces of the country.
Akani Properties, a black-owned and managed property group, acquired Nicolway in 2022 for R1 billion from the Municipal Employees Pension Fund (MEPF). This fund also includes major properties like the Radisson O.R. Tambo Hotel and Convention Centre and the Autumn Leaf Shopping Centre in Zeerust, North West. The decision to rename Nicolway aims to align the shopping centre with the broader narrative of community and family values, much like the iconic Nelson Mandela Square.
Jack Malebane, the managing director of Akani, emphasized that the renaming goes beyond mere symbolism. It seeks to encapsulate Winnie Mandela’s extensive contributions to South Africa, not just politically but in her steadfast commitment to family and community well-being. The renaming event itself drew parallels with other significant landmarks and serves as a celebration of her life and efforts towards the nation’s progress.
The renaming has sparked mixed reactions online, with some applauding the move as a fitting tribute to a formidable figure in South African history, while others pointed out the irony in the lavish commercial settings bearing the name of a grassroots political icon. Regardless, the renaming stands as a testament to South Africa’s ongoing journey to weave the fabric of its diverse heritage into the everyday lives of its citizens.
In addition to property developments, the renaming of Nicolway comes at a time when South Africa is witnessing a surge in renaming efforts aimed at rectifying historical oversights and honouring local heroes and heroines. Each renamed venue, including the Winifred Mandela Precinct, serves as a focal point for community engagement and a reflection of the Mandela legacy’s diverse aspects, encompassing leadership, community service, and family.
This renaming initiative not only repositions the precinct in the retail and commercial landscape but also in the cultural and historical context of Johannesburg, marking a significant step in the city’s evolution as a space that truly represents its people and their history.
