Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal

 French hospitality giant Accor has announced its entry into Zimbabwe with the signing of a deal for the proposed Novotel Victoria Falls, marking the group’s first hotel brand in the country.

The agreement was formalised during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa that ended in South Africa on Thursday, positioning Accor as a first mover in one of Africa’s most iconic tourism destinations.

“This signing represents a bold step forward in our development strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Accor’s chief development officer for the region.

He described Victoria Falls as one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations and noted that the group is “proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the very first time.”

“As a first mover, we see this project as a gateway to long-term sustainable growth in the country.”

Scheduled to open in 2028, the 111-room hotel will be developed in partnership with Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust and located in the Eagle Heights precinct, overlooking the Masuwe River.

The property will feature an outdoor pool, kids’ club and all-day dining, tailored to modern travellers seeking comfort and local immersion.

Eagle Asset Managers managing director Bevin Ngara said welcome the partnership with Accor, saying it will bring an international standard of hospitality to Victoria Falls.

“This project reflects our vision of investing in transformative developments that elevate tourism and deliver value to local communities and investors alike.”

The move comes amid rising regional and domestic tourism in Zimbabwe, with Victoria Falls increasingly positioned as a year-round destination.

Victoria Falls – known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders” – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Beyond its dramatic waterfall, the resort town is a magnet for adventure tourism, offering white-water rafting, bungee jumping and helicopter tours.

With over 590 Novotel properties worldwide, the Accor’s debut in Zimbabwe is expected to elevate the country’s hospitality offering and support its broader tourism growth strategy.

Source: Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal (20/06/25)

New Report on Victoria Falls Contested Conservation Zone

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, June 2025

A new report, commissioned by Keep Victoria Falls Wild, reviews the protections given under the UNESCO World Heritage Listing and concludes the south-bank riverine fringe, and site of the controversial Baines Restaurant development, is located within the 'Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone' which affords the maximum level of protection under the Listing - and prevents all new infrastructure development.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (June 2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe (pdf download, 1.8mb)

The text of the 2016 Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP), the latest approved plan covering the management of the World Heritage Site, definitively places riverine fringe above the Falls as being within the Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (HESZ). (Following quote annotated with additional details in block brackets for clarity).

(i) Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (Block 6) - Starting from... the Victoria Falls Bridge, thence north-westwards following the [fenced boundary of VFNP Area B along the road corridor past the] Victoria Falls Rainforest [entrance, following this boundary round to the turning off of the riverside road known as ‘Zambezi Drive’], thence up the Zambezi River [along the line of the road], covering the riverine vegetation strip to where it joins the Zambezi National Park boundary.” (State Parties, 2016, p.29/90)

Map showing boundary of Victoria Falls World Heritage Site management zones.

(click image for larger jpg version - 1 mb).

The report concludes "To interpret the zonation covering the riparian fringe as anything other than within the HESZ would be to conflict with the 2016 JIMP as well as with over 100 years of conservation and protection of the Falls environment... Questions need be asked as to how and why the National Park Director General, then Dr Fulton Mangwanya, could believe that this area was within the MESZ in his approval letter for the Baines Restaurant development (ZPWMA, June 2021). It is beyond belief to imagine that this was a simple mistake or oversight." (KVFW, 2025)

The report also highlights a history of manipulation of information presented in reports to UNESCO and dilution of protections to give false legitimacy to tourism developments in the south-bank (Zimbabwean) upstream riverine corridor (KVFW 2023a, 2024). These include the area of the upstream ZNP missing from the 2007 JIMP map and text descriptions, and which subsequently saw the development of the Victoria Falls River Lodge (opened in 2012), before being confirmed as being within the HESZ in the 2016 JIMP (despite which the area also saw the development of the Old Drift Lodge in 2018). In a second example the area of the upstream riverine fringe surrounding the Elephant Hills Golf Course, identified as being within the HESZ in the 2007 JIMP, is demoted to the MESZ in the map and text descriptions presented in the 2016 JIMP, without the changes being justified or explained, despite commitments by State Parties not to dilute the protections of the WHS. This area is now under threat from the proposed 'Tree Lodge' development.

In addition the report identifies the persistent failure of State Parties to report proposed developments and submit thorough independent ESIA (Environmental and Social Impact Assessment) documents to UNESCO for comment before they are approved.

The report calls for the closure and removal of all illegitimate developments within the World Heritage Site HESZ and a full investigation into how these developments were allowed by the Zimbabwean National Park Authority.

Read More

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023a) 2023 State of Development Final Report.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023b) Spotlight on Baines Restaurant.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2024) 2024 State of Development Final Report.

State Parties (2016) 2016-2021 Victoria Falls/Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site Joint Integrated Management Plan. [Available to download from the UNESCO World Heritage website here.]

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (June 2021) Application (former Railway Water-Pump Station, Victoria Falls Long Term Lease. Letter from Dr F U Mangwanya, Director-General, ZPWMA, 22 June 2021, Document Q6; Appendix A. [Available to download from KVFW website here.].

Zimbabwe And Zambia Renew Investor Search For Batoka Gorge Project

 Zimbabwe and Zambia, through the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), have revived the Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project, a 2,400-megawatt facility planned downstream of Victoria Falls, which remains one of their most ambitious initiatives.

First proposed in 1992, the site, about 54 kilometres below the falls, was identified for its hydroelectric potential.

Backed by early feasibility studies from the World Bank, the project was meant to boost power supply for Zimbabwe and Zambia and reduce regional energy shortages.

However, progress stalled due to strained international relations, environmental concerns, and a lack of funding.

The project was dormant until 2012, when renewed interest led to a 2014 memorandum of understanding between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The African Development Bank supported updated studies, and in 2019, General Electric (GE) of the United States and Power Construction Corporation of China were awarded the contract under a build-operate-transfer model.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic, questions over procurement transparency, and Zambia’s 2023 withdrawal from the deal further derailed progress.

ZRA is now intensifying efforts to attract new investors to the Batoka Gorge project.

ZRA Chief Executive Officer Munyaradzi Munodawafa confirmed that a dedicated project team has been established to spearhead the resource mobilisation campaign. He said:

The ZRA has formed a team that will court investors in the proposed 2,400-megawatt facility. This facility will be located near the World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls.

He said the resource mobilisation drive is expected to run for the next 12 to 18 months, depending on investor interest, market conditions, and ongoing political backing from both Zimbabwean and Zambian governments.

Zambia and Zimbabwe have also set a September 2025 deadline to pick new bidders, following the cancellation of the 2019 deal.

Source: Zimbabwe And Zambia Renew Investor Search For Batoka Gorge Project (1/6/25)

Zimbabwe's Tourism Revival Falters

(26th May 2025, updated 8th June)

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Tourism Trends and Statistics Report for 2024 records a meagre one percent growth in national tourism arrivals against 2023, following a 54 percent rise in 2023 over 2022 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 4th June 2024). 

The report records 1,613,901 national tourism arrivals over 2024 against 1,602,781 in 2023 (Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, 2025). The figures are a reality check for over-ambitious government plans to develop of US$5 billion tourism economy by 2025, a core part of the National Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy. 

The figures mark a sudden pause in the country's post-Covid recovery, with levels still significantly short of pre-pandemic highs of 2,579,974 arrivals recorded in 2019, while global tourism levels have largely recovered to pre-pandemic levels in 2024. Across the river Zambia recorded a record 2,199,820 foreign arrivals over 2024, a 35.3% increase on the 1,392,153 international arrivals recorded in 2023.

Breakdown of the Zimbabwe figures for 2024 record 217,017 European arrivals (against 208,710 in 2023), 134,879 from the Americas (121,953 in 2023), 100,637 Asian arrivals (99,638), 51,153 from Oceania (29,979) and 7,042 from the Middle East (8,960). Oceania markets (Pacific island region, including Australia and New Zealand) recorded a significant increase of 71% against 2023, with traditional markets such as Europe and the Americas recording only small percentage increases.

Zimbabwe Immigration data, however, recorded just 267,845 self-identified tourist or 'leisure' visitors (with 453,091 arrivals identified as 'in transit,' 456,061 visiting friends and relatives and 281,299 on business).

The sector is estimated to have generated approximately US$1.18 billion in 2024, reflecting a 2% increase from the US$1.16 billion recorded in 2023, but still a long way short of government ambitions for a US$5 billion tourism economy by 2025.

Additional figures show the south-bank Victoria Falls visitor park (the 'rainforest') received 394,681 visitors over 2024, against 302,626 in 2023, including 295,084 international visitors. The total for 2024 is just short of the record of 397,436 visitors to the Falls recorded in 2019, indicating that tourism to the Falls has recovered to pre-Covid levels. The Zambezi National Park recorded 202,618 visitors, up on the 170,605 visitors in 2023. Jointly, the Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park recorded a combined 597,299 visitors. 

Despite branding itself under the banner 'A World of Wonders,' Zimbabwe's national tourism strategy has increasingly focused on exploiting the Victoria Falls as its sole focus, neglecting once well established tourism centres across the country, such as the Matopas, Kariba, Hwange and the Eastern Highlands. Across the country, Zimbabwe's National Parks recorded at total of 998,877 visitors, with visitors to the Falls and Zambezi National Parks accounting for 59.8 percent of this total. Figures for foreign visitors show an even stronger dominance, with the Falls and Zambezi National Parks receiving 435,191 international visitors against a national total of 497,149, or 87.5 percent.

The Baines Factor

The country's over-reliance on overseas tourist arrivals to Victoria Falls also increases the tourism sectors' sensitivity to negative international headlines regarding the over-development of the Falls and negative impacts on the UNESCO World Heritage Site caused by contested tourism developments such as the Baines Restaurant, constructed within the WHS 'no new development' zone during 2022/3 and generating widespread negative headlines and legal challenges against its development (KVFW, 2023, 2024). Three years later the legal case remains to be heard and the Baines Restaurant remains open for business, while the country's reputation as responsible custodians of the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site hangs in the balance.

References

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (September 2023) Spotlight on Baines Restaurant. 11th September (revised). (pdf download)

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (July 2024) 2024 State of Development Final Report (pdf download)

Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (2025) Tourism Trends and Statistics 2024. (pdf download)

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th June 2024) Focus On Victoria Falls As Unrealistic Government Target Drives Unsuitable Development Rush.

US$43million Victoria Falls project takes shape

 ZIMRE Holdings Limited (ZHL) has commenced construction of the highly anticipated US$43 million Eagle Heights Mixed-Use Development in Victoria Falls, under the Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).

This project is expected to create numerous job opportunities for the local community in the resort town.
Located on a 12,3-hectare site, Eagle Heights is set to transform the tourism capital into a modern investment precinct with a combination of hospitality, medical, retail, and residential infrastructure.

Civil works comprising roads and storm-water drainage are nearing completion, with 95 percent of this phase already done.
The project is a major milestone in the country’s drive to position Victoria Falls as a Special Economic Zone for tourism and offshore financial services. Backed by early-stage investor commitments of US$24 million, Eagle Heights is set to redefine the city’s urban landscape with a blend of tourism, hospitality, health, retail and residential developments.

Unveiling the progress during the listing of the Eagle REIT on Friday, ZHL Chairman Mr Desmond Matete said the development marks a key step in the company’s infrastructure rollout strategy while supporting national priorities.

“The civil works are currently underway, roads and stormwater drainage works are already being executed, and they are at 95 percent completion. These are within budget and with no loss of time or injuries. This development is targeted for completion in 36 months from the commencement of work on superstructures,” he said.

Mr Matete said the Eagle Heights project aligns with the Government’s vision for Victoria Falls as a high-impact investment zone.

“We are responding to the Government’s policy of designating Victoria Falls as a Special Economic Zone for tourism and offshore financial services.

“The REIT enables us to pool resources and crowd in other investors to realise this vision,” he said.
Eagle Heights development sits on 12,3 hectares and includes a 120-key internationally branded mid-scale hotel (US$25,5 million), a 36-bed high-end tourism hospital (US$8,1 million), a service station (US$1,5 million), and 154 mid-range residential units (US$7,7 million)

These developments are tailored to serve tourists, business travellers, and patients seeking top-tier medical services.
This project follows the successful completion of the US$12,7 million Phase One of the REIT’s Mazowe development.
That phase includes a shopping centre and residential apartments, currently being handed over to tenants with an anticipated yield of six percent.

Zimpapers visited the Victoria Falls construction site and observed several complementary developments underway in the vicinity, including a new cricket stadium in Masuwe, part of preparations for hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2027.
The Government has allocated 271,5 hectares in Masuwe, from a total of 1  200 hectares, to stimulate investment in upmarket tourism and support infrastructure.

Mr Matete said these ongoing developments dovetail well with the Eagle Heights project.
He said their mid-scale hotel and tourism hospital will support the area’s growing demand for hospitality and health services.
ZHL chief executive officer, Mr Stanley Kudenga, said the Eagle REIT projects are already delivering social and economic value.

“Mazowe Project has created 120 local jobs, while Eagle Heights peaked at 275 local jobs during the civil works phase alone. In total, the Eagle REIT will create between 500 and 900 construction jobs, including 450 post-construction jobs,” he said.
Mr Kudenga noted that Mazowe is evolving into a key satellite town for Harare, while Eagle Heights will become a new precinct in Victoria Falls.

“The residential offerings at Eagle Heights are premium and tailored to support the hospitality sector. The combined developments — 108 villas and 54 apartments — will add at least 550 new hospitality beds to the city,” he said.

Mr Kudenga said through the Eagle REIT, ZHL is playing a critical role in shaping Victoria Falls’ future by delivering catalytic developments that align with National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1: 2021–2025), the upcoming NDS2 (2026–2030) and Vision 2030, which aims to position Zimbabwe as an upper middle-income economy by the end of the decade.

Victoria Falls was granted city status in 2019, driven largely by its tourism potential and growing investment profile. To accelerate growth, the Government designated it a Special Economic Zone in 2020, focusing on tourism, finance, and infrastructure development.

The Eagle Heights project comes as part of this broader vision to transform the city into a smart, globally competitive urban hub.

Mr Kudenga said the tourism hospital would fill a critical gap in medical services in the region, while the overall development would enhance Victoria Falls’ appeal as an international investment and tourism hub.

ZHL has previously contributed to infrastructure in Victoria Falls through projects such as the Sawanga Mall, which houses banks, offices and retail firms, and played a major role in the city attaining municipal status.

Source: US$43million Victoria Falls project takes shape (20/05/25)

Zambezi Helicopter Company Invests US$2.1 Million in New Victoria Falls Aviation Hub

 The Zambezi Helicopter Company (ZHC), a division of Shearwater Adventures, is nearing completion of a US$2.1 million aviation facility in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Set to open in May 2025, the new hub in the Chinotimba Industrial Area replaces the company’s previous base near the Elephant Hills Hotel and forms part of wider efforts to support Zimbabwe’s target of growing its tourism sector to US$5 billion.

The development features an Air Management Organisation, hangars, helipads, a VIP lounge, restaurant, pilot training facilities, and maintenance services for external operators. It is expected to generate local employment and enhance operational capacity amid surging demand for helicopter tours over the falls. According to Shearwater’s Dr Clement Mukwasi, the project addresses the need for expanded infrastructure and reflects broader investment trends turning Victoria Falls into a leading African tourism destination.

Source: Zambezi Helicopter Company Invests US$2.1 Million in New Victoria Falls Aviation Hub (07/05/25)

International visitors flock to Vic Falls as tourist numbers surge

 

The Victoria Falls Rainforest has seen a rise in tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2025, recording 61 139 visitors compared to 59 718 over the same period in 2024.

In a statement released on Monday, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority said the increase was largely driven by a surge in international tourism, with arrivals reaching 47,633 in 2025, up from 44,110 the previous year.

However, domestic tourism declined, with numbers falling from 15,608 in 2024 to 13,506 this year.

“Key source markets driving international interest in Victoria Falls include Europe—particularly the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany—largely due to the availability of dedicated tour packages,” said Zimparks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo.

Farawo added that enhanced accessibility, following the expansion of Victoria Falls Airport and the introduction of new routes including direct flights from Frankfurt, had further fuelled interest from German tourists.

“The implementation of the KAZA UniVisa, which simplifies cross-border travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, has also played a pivotal role in encouraging visitors to explore both sides of the Falls, offering a more seamless experience for tourists from many countries,” he said.

Farawo noted that regionally, South Africa remains the largest source of visitors, followed closely by Botswana, contributing to the continued growth of the tourism sector in Victoria Falls.

Source: International visitors flock to Vic Falls as tourist numbers surge (06/05/25)

Mnangagwa Administration Caught In Embarrassing Lie Over Victoria Falls Road Project

 In an embarrassing about-face, Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has publicly retracted a false claim that road construction contractors were already on site for the much-anticipated Victoria Falls project. The Ministry has since admitted that the tender process is still underway and no contractors have been deployed.

The blunder, disseminated via the Ministry’s official Twitter account on April 29 at 9:18 a.m., cited a state media report titled “Victoria Falls contractors on site” — a claim that turned out to be inaccurate. After facing swift backlash, the Ministry issued a formal apology and explanation, attributing the misinformation to a breach of internal protocol.

In its public statement, the Ministry wrote:

“The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to unreservedly apologise to members of the public and all its stakeholders for posting a twitter message containing wrong information on 29 April 2025 at 0918 Hours.”

The Ministry explained that the false information had been posted without proper verification from technical officials:

“One of the officers assigned the duty to manage the Ministry’s twitter handle conceded and acknowledged that she breached the internal Standard Operating Procedures of information verification,” the statement read.

Setting the record straight, the Ministry clarified the actual status of the project:

“The tender which was issued on 17 April 2025 closed on 29 April 2025 at 1100 Hours. After the closure of the bidding period, an evaluation committee will sit, whereupon the outcome will be sent to the Special Procurement Oversight Committee for oversight of the tender process before awarding the same to successful bidders.”

Permanent Secretary Eng. P.J. Makumbe, who signed off on the statement, reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to accurate public communication:

“The Ministry remains committed to the need for sharing correct information to members of the public.”

The incident has reignited criticism of the government’s infrastructure communication strategies, with observers raising concerns about professionalism and transparency within key departments.

Source: Mnangagwa Administration Caught In Embarrassing Lie Over Victoria Falls Road Project (01/05/25)

Tourist Train Collision: Victoria Falls-Bound Tourists Escape Injury, Staff Hospitalised

 VICTORIA FALLS – A serious train collision just outside Gwanda early this morning has left 18 people hospitalised and raised urgent questions about Zimbabwe’s rail safety standards in 2025.

The incident involved a luxury Rovos Rail passenger train carrying 47 international tourists en route to Victoria Falls and a Bulawayo-Beitbridge Railway (BBR) goods train.

The collision occurred at approximately 6:30 AM, eight kilometres outside Gwanda. While initial reports had suggested tourists were among the injured, railway officials later confirmed that all casualties were staff members. Fourteen of the injured were taken to Gwanda Provincial Hospital, while four were transferred to Mater Dei Hospital in Bulawayo for further treatment. None of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

The Rovos Rail train had been travelling from South Africa, offering a luxury cross-border experience for tourists seeking to witness the grandeur of Victoria Falls. With the rail journey now interrupted, the tourists will complete the remainder of the 435-kilometre trip by road on Friday.

However, the rerouting comes with its own frustrations. The rail operator has warned that the journey could take up to eight hours due to deteriorating road conditions between Gwanda and Victoria Falls. Many have voiced concerns about the poor state of infrastructure and the impact this may have on Zimbabwe’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.

Rovos Rail has issued a statement apologising for the disruption and confirmed that passengers will receive a full refund for the journey.

While the cause of the collision has not yet been officially established, an investigation is underway. Transport and Infrastructure officials have been dispatched to the scene, and the Railways Inspectorate is expected to provide a preliminary report in the coming days.

Observers are questioning how such an accident could occur on a mainline in 2025, given technological advancements in signalling and train tracking systems. Critics say the accident is symptomatic of deeper issues in the country’s state-run infrastructure, which has suffered years of neglect, underinvestment, and alleged corruption.

“This is not just about a train crash,” said one transport analyst. “It’s about the failure to modernise and maintain our transport systems—something tourists and citizens alike are now paying the price for.”

Public sentiment online and in local communities has been fierce, with many Zimbabweans expressing embarrassment and outrage over the incident.

“We are a nation that boasts about Victoria Falls as a world-class destination,” said one Victoria Falls-based tour operator. “But how do we expect the world to take us seriously when we can’t even ensure the safety of a luxury train ride or offer decent roads as a backup?”

Others have pointed fingers at systemic corruption within the transport ministry and associated parastatals, alleging that misappropriation of funds meant for infrastructure upgrades has left the country dangerously vulnerable to such accidents.

As the injured recover and the tourists prepare for a long road trip through Zimbabwe’s potholed highways, the spotlight now turns to the government’s response. The tourism industry, already reeling from inflation and power shortages, can ill afford another blow to its image.

This incident has not only exposed flaws in railway operations but also reignited debate about the broader decay of Zimbabwe’s public infrastructure—a situation many believe is the result of chronic mismanagement and unchecked greed.

For now, the nation holds its breath, hoping that investigations will yield answers—and accountability.

Source: Tourists Train Collision: Victoria Falls-Bound Tourists Escape Injury, Staff Hospitalised (1804/25)

Queen Nandi Place Officially Launched in Victoria Falls

(April 2025)

The much-anticipated launch of Queen Nandi Place, a versatile upmarket events venue located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, was held on Friday, 4 April, drawing members of the local travel trade and business community to celebrate its opening.

The event was set against the backdrop of Queen Nandi Place’s stylish interiors and superb views over the Zambezi National Park and the spray of the Victoria Falls, and it showcased the venue’s potential to host a wide variety of functions – from weddings and gala dinners to product launches and wellness events.

A part of the Victoria Falls Safari Collection, which is operated by the Africa Albida Tourism Hospitality group, Queen Nandi Place is set to play a key role in positioning Victoria Falls as a competitive year-round destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE).

Speaking during his welcome remarks, Andy Conn, Group Operations Manager, highlighted the importance of such a facility in addressing the challenges of the low season in the destination’s tourism calendar.

“Queen Nandi Place is not just another venue – it’s a response to the challenges we all face in the destination during the low season. By attracting more upmarket events and meetings over our traditionally quieter months, we hope to fill not only our rooms but rooms across Victoria Falls and drive business for everyone in the destination,” he said.

Anald Musonza, Head of Sales and Marketing, also emphasised the importance of collaboration within the destination’s tourism sector, saying:

“To grow the MICE business in Victoria Falls, collaboration is key. Queen Nandi Place is just one piece of the puzzle, and we need the entire community to rally together and actively position Victoria Falls as a world-class events destination.”

Named after Queen Nandi, the mother of King Shaka Zulu, the venue honours her legacy of strength, courage, and beauty.

The state-of-the-art multi-purpose facility seats up to 180 delegates and has a dedicated kitchen to provide seamless event catering.

Africa Albida Tourism hospitality group operates the Victoria Falls Safari Collection, a portfolio of properties renowned for capturing the essence of Africa in one of the region’s most iconic destinations – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

The collection incorporates the flagship Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, the premium 20-room Victoria Falls Safari Club, the spacious Victoria Falls Safari Suites, the family-friendly Lokuthula Lodges - Victoria Falls, the deluxe MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant, the “must-do” Boma – Dinner & Drum Show, the Victoria Falls Safari Spa and Queen Nandi Place, a versatile upmarket events venue, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, just 4km from the Victoria Falls.

Source: Queen Nandi Place Officially Launched in Victoria Falls (09/04/25)

Zimbabwe forced to deny comical pothole photo was shot along Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road

HARARE – The government was on Monday forced to deny claims a viral image of three people believed to be tourists posing for a photo while sitting inside a huge pothole was taken along the heavily damaged Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway.

The road, which links the rest of the country to the iconic Victoria Falls, has seen years of neglect by government leading to huge craters developing on the tired infrastructure.

Calls to have the road restored to its former usable state have seemed to go unheeded by authorities who have taken their time to make the necessary repairs.

Perhaps to illustrate the extent of the damage, three cheeky tourists took an amusing image while seated snugly inside a giant crater, forcing an embarrassed government into denial after the image went viral on social media.

In a statement, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development denied the image was taken along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway.

“It has come to our attention that a social media post is circulating, showing 3 people posing in a pothole on a road claimed to be part of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway,” said the ministry.

“While we acknowledge that certain sections of the highway are in dire need of rehabilitation, the images in the post do not correspond to any section of the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway.

“The sections requiring urgent attention are currently being addressed through a collaborative effort between the Department of Roads and Bitumen World. Work is already underway, with teams camped in Hwange, Halfway, and Insiza to ensure the road is rehabilitated efficiently.”

The Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road also links the rest of the country to the touristy Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s biggest wildlife habitat.

It is regarded a major source of wealth for a country heavily dependent on tourism.

Source: Zimbabwe forced to deny comical pothole photo was shot along Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road (11/03/25). 

Victoria Falls signs US$1,6m land servicing deal

 THE City of Victoria Falls has signed a US$1,6 million agreement with Integrated Construction Projects (ICP) to service commercial land in the central business district, a move expected to enhance the city’s urban landscape. The project will cover BB5, a prime area with 90 commercial stands along Livingstone Way behind Sawanga Mall and the Railway Loop, which has 20 stands behind Shearwater Village. Town clerk Ronnie Dube and ICP director Tawanda Muchineripi signed the agreement on Friday last week at council offices.

The project, which includes the construction of water, sewer, stormwater systems and roads is expected to begin with immediate effect. Council will fully fund the project, with ICP pledging to complete the work in a record six months.“As the responsible authority, it is fair that we develop that area so that it gives a good ambiance for our city and benefits the people who were allocated,” Dube said.

“Hence, we advertised the tender for the works to be done and ICP won the tender for US$1,6 million, which we are going to fund using our resources.”He called on land beneficiaries under the BB5 scheme to clear any outstanding payments to assist council in financing the project.

“We urge residents, who owe council anything related to BB5, to own up so that it will also assist us,” he said. ICP worked on other projects in Victoria Falls, including the BB7 residential area and the construction of a water reservoir. 

Muchineripi expressed confidence in meeting the ambitious six-month deadline. “The contract period is 12 months, but we envisage and we will endeavour to finish within six months, which will be record time,” he said.“We are sure of the support of council and with the support of all the residents we will be able to achieve this.”The development is expected to boost commercial activity in Victoria Falls by providing fully serviced stands for business investors.

Source: Victoria Falls signs US$1,6m land servicing deal (10 March 2025)

New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape

 ZIMBABWE Cricket (ZC) Managing Director, Givemore Makoni, has announced significant progress at the Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium, situated in the resort city of Victoria Falls. The foundation stone for the multi-purpose 10 000-seater stadium was laid in May last year, and Makoni told Saturday Chronicle that most of the groundwork has been completed. The stadium is set to be finished in time for the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with South Africa and Namibia.

Makoni reported that substantial progress has been made in earthworks, with the field levelled and centre and nets wickets planted.

“We have made significant progress in terms of earthwork. Levelling the ground has been done to ensure that the outfield maintains the same levels. We have also planted wickets on the main pitch and for practice. We have also done the 30 yards for the main pitch. Right now, we are working on the grass embankment, and then the main building structures will follow soon after. We have also secured the area with an electric fence. So, we have really made some significant progress, and everything is well on course and up to plan,” said Makoni.

In addition to the 2027 World Cup, Zimbabwe will co-host the 2026 ICC Men’s Under-19 Cricket World Cup with Namibia. Makoni stated that the new ground, touted as the “New Mecca” of Zimbabwean cricket, is primarily earmarked for the 2027 global showpiece.

“The Mosi-oa-Tunya Cricket Stadium is earmarked mainly for the 2027 World Cup. Maybe there might be some practice sessions held there for the Under-19 World Cup, but the target is 2027. We are confident that we will meet that target,” Makoni said.

ZC was awarded 10 hectares within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for the construction of the stadium. Located in a coveted tourist destination, the stadium is set to eclipse the conventional cricketing hub — Harare Sports Club — with the magnetic charm and splendour of Victoria Falls. The stadium is expected to be a visual delight, a sterling addition not only to Zimbabwe but to the international cricket community. Moreover, it is anticipated to be a significant boon for the nation’s sports tourism sector.

Makoni highlighted that the stadium would also benefit the local community, having a substantial tourism impact. Apart from Victoria Falls, he revealed plans to ensure that every province in the country gets a first-class international facility to spread and develop the game in all corners of the country.

“Our main objective is to make sure that cricket is the number one sport in the country. The stadium in Victoria Falls is huge for tourism; there is a footprint there. Apart from that, we have also earmarked land in Dangamvura in Mutare and in Gweru to develop first-class venues. We also have the Zimbabwe Cricket Academy being built in Matabeleland South in Esigodini. We are on point in trying to decentralise and spread the game across the country,” he said.

Makoni further said that part of their decentralisation effort is to ensure that everyone gets the chance to play cricket, as it is a game that can change lives.

“We want everyone to play cricket. We want the majority, from all backgrounds, to be able to play cricket. Cricket makes a difference; look at the likes of Tatenda Taibu, Chris Mpofu, and Hamilton Masakadza, for example. We want kids all over, down in remote areas, to play cricket; that’s our main target. We want disadvantaged kids to play cricket. There is nothing special about this game; it’s a game for everyone, and for all,” said Makoni.

The 2027 Cricket World Cup is scheduled for October/November. Meanwhile, the 2027 World Cup co-hosts, Namibia, have also made significant progress with their FNB Namibia Cricket Ground, situated in Windhoek. The 7 000-seater state-of-the-art facility is nearing completion and will be the first venue in Namibia to host any World Cup game.

“The journey to developing Namibia’s new international cricket stadium has been a meticulously planned process, aligning with our vision of positioning the country as a top-tier Associate Member. Having a world-class cricket venue is a milestone that solidifies Namibia’s status as a leading Associate Member. It signifies our commitment to long-term cricketing excellence, not only in on-field performance but in administrative and infrastructural development. This stadium will serve as a beacon for cricket in Africa, ensuring Namibia remains a host nation for top-tier ICC events and a key player in global cricket discussions,” said Cricket Namibia CEO, Johan Muller.

Source: New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape (08/03/25)

Victoria Falls named as Ramsar World Wetland City

Victoria Falls has been named among 31 cities across the world as a 'Ramsar wetland city.' The listing, made under the Ramsar International Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, highlights the vital role that wetlands play in supporting vital ecosystem functions for people and wildlife.

The Wetland City Accreditation scheme encourages cities in close proximity to and dependent on wetlands - especially those designated Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance - to promote the conservation and wise use of urban and peri-urban wetlands, as well as sustainable socio-economic benefits for local people.

Zimbabwe ratified the Ramsar Convention in 2012 and has since designated seven sites as Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites), including Victoria Falls, Driefontein Grasslands, Middle Zambezi/Mana Pools, Lake Chivero, Monavale Vlei, Chinhoyi Caves and Cleveland Dam. The announcement was made in advance of World Wetlands Day 2025, 2 February, under the theme: 'Protecting Wetlands For Our Common Future.'

"Wetlands are critical for our country's well-being, providing essential services such as flood control, climate regulation, and supporting local livelihoods," said Angella Kabira, the Principal Natural Resources Officer in the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife.

A recent survey conducted by the Environmental Management Authority found that over half of Zimbabwe's wetlands are considerably degraded and 26 percent are seriously deteriorated, while only 17 percent are in perfect condition.

Victoria Falls will host the 15th Conference of the Contracting Parties (Cop15) to the Ramsar Convention on wetlands in Victoria Falls from 23-31 July 2025. The event will focus global attention on Zimbabwe's management of the Victoria Falls and recent unsuitable tourism developments within the Victoria Falls National Park, also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

"As we host this global event, we are committed to showcasing our progress and collaborating with international partners to further strengthen wetland management," added Phanuel Mangisi the Ramsar Convention-National focal person and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Manager at the Environmental Management Authority (EMA).

Gandiwa appointed new ZimParks boss

THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has entered a new era following yesterday’s appointment of Professor Edson Gandiwa as its new director-general.

He succeeds Dr Fulton Mangwanya who was recently appointed Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) director-general.

At the handover ceremony in Harare yesterday, Prof Gandiwa expressed appreciation for the opportunity to lead ZimParks.

“I accept this significant leadership role with profound gratitude and humility,” he said.

“It is difficult to fill the void left by such a unique leader, but as we look ahead, we are motivated by his commitment to conservation and his legacy of hard work.”

Dr Mangwanya expressed heartfelt gratitude for his tenure at ZimParks.

He emphasised the broader significance of wildlife conservation, saying ZimParks’ mission extends beyond mere protection, to contributing to sustainable development goals, including poverty eradication.

“It has been a pleasure to serve as director-general alongside you all,” said Dr Mangwanya.

“Our work is not just about conserving for the sake of conserving; it is about ensuring that wildlife conservation benefits all Zimbabweans.”

Mr Edward Samuriwo, Acting Permanent Secretary for Environment, Climate and Wildlife, highlighted the historic nature of this transition.

“This handover is a milestone for ZimParks,” he noted, emphasising Dr Mangwanya’s lasting impact on Zimbabwe’s conservation landscape.

Mrs Sithembile Ncube, acting chairperson of the ZimParks board, expressed her unwavering support for Prof Gandiwa.

Source: Gandiwa appointed new ZimParks boss (15/01/25)

Construction of Vic Falls multi-purpose cricket stadium on course

 Construction of the multi-purpose Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls is progressing well, with significant ground having been covered in terms of earthworks and pitch development.

The facility is a cornerstone of Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC)’s ambitious infrastructure development plan.

This comes at a time when Zimbabwe is preparing to co-host the 2026 under-19 Cricket World Cup alongside Namibia and the 2027 men’s Cricket World Cup with South Africa and Namibia.

The project is on track, with 50% of the main pitch having been constructed.

“We have made significant progress in the earthworks. We’ve levelled Pitch A, the main pitch, and the practice pitch. Planting has commenced on the main square, including the wicket and the 30-yard area. The good news is this planting coincides with the rains. I’m told there’s been good rainfall in Victoria Falls, which is very encouraging. While the rains have temporarily slowed work on the practice pitch due to water logging, overall progress is substantial,” said managing director of Zimbabwe Cricket, Givemore Makoni.

Construction of other facilities is expected to begin soon.

“Construction work on the media centres, players’ changing rooms, and grandstands is scheduled to begin in March this year. We are on course in terms of the field work and adhering to our phased plan. We are confident in meeting all our deadlines,” said Mr Makoni.

Zimbabwe National Geospatial and Space Agency, a parastatal under the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, is the main contractor.

Designed as a multi-purpose facility, the stadium will host cricket matches and other sporting events.
The cricket stadium, a flagship project within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Victoria Falls, is expected to boost tourism and economic growth.

Other major developments underway in the Masuwe SEZ include a convention centre with associated hotels and villas, a golf estate, a medical tourism facility, a commercial central business district, an international service centre, and high-end residential units.

Source: Construction of Vic Falls multi-purpose cricket stadium on course (15/01/25)