Malkerns Square has expanded its vibrant lifestyle offerings with the official launch of three state-of-the-art LivPadel courts, imported from Spain and introduced to Eswatini through a partnership with LivPadel South Africa.
The new courts mark the latest addition to the rapidly growing Malkerns Square development, which already features 147 apartments, including embassy units, and a 2,000-square-metre retail centre anchored by well-known outlets such as KFC and Pick n Pay.
Constructed to international standards, the padel courts are fully enclosed with 20-metre-long, 10-metre-high double-sided glass walls, providing an optimal viewing experience for spectators.
The courts are built on artificial grass and are equipped with overhead spotlights to enable night-time play. Located adjacent to the new Sage Café and a secure children’s playground, the courts form part of a broader vision to create a holistic live-work-play environment in the heart of Malkerns.
Padel is one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. Played in doubles on a court roughly a third the size of a traditional tennis court, it combines elements of tennis and squash. Using solid paddles and low-compression tennis balls, players serve underhand and can bounce the ball off surrounding glass walls, creating a dynamic and fast-paced game that is both social and accessible.
Speaking at the official opening, Shawn O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of Pine Acres and Select Group, shared his vision for the area.
“A few years ago, we purchased 42 hectares of land with the dream of developing Malkerns Square, and we worked through COVID-19. Now we have this establishment behind us,” O’Sullivan said.
O’Sullivan revealed that Malkerns Square is entering its next phase of growth, which includes the construction of a new commercial centre three times larger than the existing retail space.
The expansion will feature additional retail outlets, restaurants, supply and convenience stores, and a further 150 residential units, including townhouses. Completion is anticipated within the next 12 to 18 months.
Craig van Dyk, Director of LivPadel, expressed his enthusiasm about introducing the sport to Eswatini.
“We’re very excited to bring this international sport to the country,” van Dyk said. “LivPadel holds the padel licence for Southern Africa. It’s an easy sport to learn and enjoy. We have paddles available for rent here in Malkerns, and we’ll soon be launching a padel league to create a fun and competitive community.”
Van Dyk added that an opening special is currently available, with a full court rental for four players priced at just E200.
The development has also received strong support from local authorities. Bongani Vilakati, speaking on behalf of the Malkerns
Town Board, commended African Alliance, Select Group, and their development partners for their contribution to the town.
“These courts and the broader Malkerns Square initiative are not just about infrastructure,” he said. “They’re about building a future, nurturing healthy lifestyles, and developing the champions of tomorrow.”