Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium

Zimbabwe’s President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has laid the foundation stone for a new multi-purpose stadium that Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) is building in Victoria Falls ahead of the country’s co-hosting of the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

Zimbabwe is co-hosting the International Cricket Council’s showpiece tournament with South Africa and Namibia, with the new 10,000-seat stadium being targeted as a venue for the tournament, along with the co-hosting of the 2026 Under-19 World Cup, which Zimbabwe is staging alongside Namibia.

Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium will be the first major element of a wider infrastructure investment plan by ZC, while it is also being looked upon by the government as a focal point for the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism in Victoria Falls.

The government is planning a multi-million dollar project including 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.

The government’s Vision 2030 strategy includes the creation of a $5bn (£3.93bn/€4.62bn) tourism and hospitality industry by 2025. ZC was last year awarded 10 hectares of state-owned land at Masuwe in order to develop an international-standard stadium and associated facilities that would promote sports tourism and enhance Victoria Falls’ destination status.

Between $5m and $10m will be invested in the stadium project, according to The Chronicle, mainly from ICC grants. ZC said the development includes the construction of a playing field, practice nets, scoreboards, broadcast and media centre, changing rooms, hospitality facilities, grandstand and other spectator areas, all blending into the surrounding forest and connecting with the context of the resort town.

The project has drawn criticism from local officials in recent weeks over how it will impact on the natural beauty of Victoria Falls, but Mnangagwa yesterday (Thursday) hailed the initiative as a “most welcome” development that will enhance the rich natural heritage associated with the resort town.

“The project dovetails with my administration’s quest to comprehensively broaden the tourism products and integrate the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone through promoting sports tourism within our premium resort city of Victoria Falls,” said Mnangagwa, according to ZC’s official website.

“The location for the envisaged facility… will undoubtedly contribute to the speedy attainment of tourism sector targets towards our national development aspirations as outlined in the National Development Strategy and Vision 2030.”

He continued: “Zimbabwe is honoured and remains ready to proudly co-host the 2027 Cricket World Cup, together with our sister republics of South Africa and Namibia. To this end, the proposed cricket stadium is one of the priority projects that will be pursued with a greater sense of urgency as we develop, improve and expand our national integrated infrastructure.”

The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry and the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture will partner with ZC on the project. “The modernisation and societal evolving trends and patterns in the sports and recreation sector across the world should not be ignored as we develop sports, recreation and tourism industries,” said Mnangagwa.

“As we focus on the construction of the Zimbabwe Cricket stadium, here in Victoria Falls, the rehabilitation, upgrading and modernisation of other sporting facilities across the country should equally be given appropriate attention.

“This includes the construction of new community sports facilities, introduction of bucket seats at our stadiums across the country, as well as adoption of e-enabled aspects of sporting activities, which facilitate pre-match bookings and e-ticketing, among other aspects.”

ZC chairman, Tavengwa Mukuhlani, said infrastructure investment is needed as cricket is fast becoming Zimbabwe’s number one sport, “if it is not already occupying the top spot”. 

He added: “But its growing popularity is not without its challenges. One of those challenges is to ensure facilities are meeting the needs of users and are responding to the way cricket and community sport is being consumed.

“With more players and a range of different cricket formats recently being introduced, the demand on cricket facilities and infrastructure is greater than ever. Our strategy as Zimbabwe Cricket provides a clear direction for the planning, provision and development of community cricket facilities.

“We have identified key facility priorities in each of the 10 provinces of our country, with our main focus being on constructing new stadiums and improving and expanding the capacity of existing facilities.”

Source: Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium (24/05/2024)

See Also

Ambitions for an international-standard cricket stadium at Victoria Falls first put forward in 2010 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 2nd July 2010). Land just off Pioneer Road in Victoria Falls’ industrial site between the railway line and Chinotimba suburb was allocated for the project, before the plans were finally shelved in 2016 following lack of investment interest (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th October 2016). Project resurrected in 2024. Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th May 2024) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025 – govt.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (21st May 2024) Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th May 2024) Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal.

thesadiumbusiness.com (25th May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th July 2024) Zimbabwe building stadium near scenic Victoria Falls, project funded by ICC.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th March 2025) New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th June 2025) Multi-purpose stadium to unlock sporting talent in Matabeleland North.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (7th August 2025) Presidential blessing for Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd September 2025) Construction of Victoria Falls Cricket Ground takes shape

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls website. 

Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products

 Mashudu Netsianda in Victoria Falls

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday laid the foundation stone to mark the beginning of work on the construction of the Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls, saying the project dovetails with the Second Republic’s quest to broaden the tourism products and integrate the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone through promoting sports tourism. 

An integrated tourism resort model will be developed around the stadium to include a central business district, medical tourism facility, golf estate, tourism school and conference facilities, among others, said the President. Last year, Zimbabwe Cricket was allocated 10 hectares of land for the construction of an international cricket stadium and ancillary facilities. 

Between US$5 million and US$10 million will be invested mainly from grants from the International Cricket Council.

The stadium will be used when the country jointly hosts the 2027 Cricket World Cup with South Africa and Namibia. The project will contribute towards the US$5 billion Tourism and Hospitality Industry by 2025, as well as the development and expansion of sports infrastructure in the country. 

In his keynote address at the event, President Mnangagwa said the multi-purpose sporting infrastructure dovetails the Government’s devolution agenda to bring about multi-pronged development initiatives that leave no one and no place behind.

“It is my great honour to officiate at this special occasion to lay the foundation stone for the Zimbabwe Cricket multi-purpose sporting infrastructure, anchored by an International Cricket Stadium, among other facilities.

“The project dovetails with my administration’s quest to comprehensively broaden the tourism products and integrate the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone through promoting sports tourism within our premium resort city of Victoria Falls,” he said.

“This project, here in Victoria Falls, is most welcome as it will enhance the rich natural heritage associated with our premier resort city.”

Tourism is a key pillar of the Zimbabwean economy and ranks third after mining and agriculture, accounting for 12 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product during the period January to September 2023. 

The international cricket stadium and associated facilities will significantly contribute to the growth of the economy while creating more training and employment opportunities.

Under the “Integrated Tourism Resort” initiative, President Mnangagwa said sustainable tourism will be promoted in line with the United Nations Tourism ethos. The diverse tourism business facilities in the resort town are expected to blend with the natural environment.

He said the location for the envisaged facility at the Masuwe SEZ will contribute to the speedy attainment of tourism sector targets towards the national development aspirations as outlined in the National Development Strategy (NDS1) and Vision 2030.

Zimbabwe has expressed readiness to co-host the 2027 Cricket World Cup, together with South Africa and Namibia. Hence the proposed cricket stadium is one of the priority projects that will be pursued with a greater sense of urgency, said President Mnangagwa.

He commended unity of purpose and teamwork demonstrated by the stakeholders involved in the project saying this will ensure completion times are met ahead of the 2027 Cricket World Cup.

“I call upon the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Recreation, as well as that of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Zimbabwe Cricket and contractors, among other stakeholders, to uphold the Second Republic’s work ethic of working in unison for the timely completion of this high-priority project,” said the President.

He further commended the joint management committee comprising Victoria Falls City Council and Hwange Rural District Council, among other stakeholders for facilitating the take-off of this project.

“I challenge other local authorities to ensure greater effectiveness in Local Government administration towards entrenching the ease of doing business systems to attract private sector players, more investments and capital into respective localities,” he said. 

“This and other initiatives at this Masuwe Special Economic Zone must result in increased competitiveness of Victoria Falls in our domestic, regional and international economic matrix.”

Government has already adopted a comprehensive Tourism and Hospitality Industry Growth Strategy that organises the tourism and hospitality sector into clusters. The approach focuses on enhancing targeted tourism development, promotion, as well as diversification. 

The construction of the international cricket stadium and associated facilities under the Sports Tourism Cluster is a major step towards driving the development of new tourism products and facilities.

“The project is further set to generate foreign exchange revenue, facilitate technological and skills spill-overs, create employment opportunities, as well as propel various economic downstream and upstream linkages,” he added.

The President also directed the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry to revisit the set sector target given the tourism sector’s potential for growth.

He said more SEZs of that nature shall be designated to support and propel innovation, diverse industries, products, services and general economic growth for the good of the country and its citizens. 

“This is what it means that, ‘Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo/ Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe ngabaninilo’. Going forward and leveraging on the diverse functions and scope of Special Economic Zones, I expect the scale and quality of both domestic and global investments to increase,” said President Mnangagwa.

“This is moreso as the City of Victoria Falls already has a thriving tourism and hospitality industry ecosystem, as well as a budding and promising financial service trading platform.”

He reiterated Government’s commitment to continue implementing well-structured programmes that support a highly trained and efficient workforce, as well as the country’s robust legal and financial system to sustain the prevailing enabling business operating environment.

“The tourism and hospitality industry must, therefore, facilitate the participation of local communities across the tourism and hospitality value chain,” said President Mnangagwa.

“In this spirit, I commend stakeholders for guaranteeing that the cricket infrastructure and associated facilities being constructed here will involve local communities, the youth and women at every stage, through the creation of employment and training opportunities.”

Similarly, the President stressed the need to strike an intricate balance that protects the natural habitat, biodiversity and wildlife.

“Architectural designs and the built environment within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone and across the City of Victoria Falls should seamlessly blend with the natural environment, towards promoting sustainable tourism and socio-economic development,” he said.

“The modernisation and societal evolving trends and patterns in the sports and recreation sector across the world should not be ignored, as we develop sports, recreation and tourism industries.”

This includes the construction of new community sports facilities, introduction of bucket seats at our stadiums across the country, as well as the adoption of e-enabled aspects of sporting activities, which facilitate pre-match bookings and e-ticketing, among other aspects.

“Such interventions should nurture talent across various sporting codes, including the development of sporting academies, and result in greater convenience for our sport-loving nation, while more efficient systems must see our clubs being professionally run and sustainably financed,” said President Mnangagwa.

Source: Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products (24/05/24)

See Also

Ambitions for an international-standard cricket stadium at Victoria Falls first put forward in 2010 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 2nd July 2010). Land just off Pioneer Road in Victoria Falls’ industrial site between the railway line and Chinotimba suburb was allocated for the project, before the plans were finally shelved in 2016 following lack of investment interest (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th October 2016). Project resurrected in 2024. Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th May 2024) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025 – govt.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (21st May 2024) Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th May 2024) Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal.

thesadiumbusiness.com (25th May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th July 2024) Zimbabwe building stadium near scenic Victoria Falls, project funded by ICC.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th March 2025) New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th June 2025) Multi-purpose stadium to unlock sporting talent in Matabeleland North.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (7th August 2025) Presidential blessing for Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd September 2025) Construction of Victoria Falls Cricket Ground takes shape

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls website. 

Multi-million-dollar hotel set for Vic Falls

 A NEW hospitality real estate investment trust (REIT) is scheduled to be listed on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) after Zesa Pension Fund and Cresta Hotels partnered to build a 4-star hotel in Victoria Falls, businessdigest can report.

The project, which is expected to cost US$49 million in total, will be developed under the Mosi-oa-Tunya Real Estate Investment Trust (Mosi REIT), with 24 million units available for private placement at a price of US$1.

The hotel, which will have 180 rooms, conference facilities and other entertainment activities, will be operated by Cresta Hotels on a lease basis.

The project was unveiled on the side-lines of the Zimbabwe Association of Pension Funds 49th annual conference in Victoria Falls last week.

The project's financial advisor, Intellego Investment Consultancy head for corporate advisory services, Owen Namusi said the units will be listed on the VFEX with the sponsor putting in about US$7 million.

"We are offering 24 million units at a unit price of US$1 in this particular price-based exercise. We are targeting to reach US$24 million. We are open to receiving investment subscriptions in ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold)," he said.

"This is, after all, a hospitality tourism-themed real estate investment trust, unlike, other REITs that you may know that may focus on commercial real estate, some that may focus on a mixture of industrial and office space. This REIT's primary target is to really establish a portfolio of hospitality-focused assets.

“So, we are looking at hotels. We are looking at related sort of infrastructure, so you can also potentially have something like a theme park that is set up in a tourist destination, which can also then be part of this REIT going  forward.”

According to Namusi, they intend to expand their portfolio of hospitality assets under the Mosi REIT's umbrella in the future.

The owners of Mosi REIT anticipate receiving rental income as soon as the assets are operationalised.

Under the terms of the REIT model, sponsors and investors will pool their resources to purchase the facility's assets, and Cresta will run it to generate income.

Namusi stated that they expected to have at least seven case players over the next five to 10 years, and they looked forward to having multiple assets come on board on a regular basis.

"We are in the second quarter of 2024. Private placement is opening for commitments and subscription flows. So, probably in the next month or so we will commence actual construction activities on this particular site,” he noted.

“Then we do expect the private placement window to close by the fourth quarter of 2024, and by then, we expect investors who are interested to make their commitments. I think from a logistical point of view, we can do this."

The project is expected to be completed in 2027.

It will draw income from the tourism sector, greatly boosting the investment return and preserve the retirement benefits for members and pensioners.

Cresta Hotels is one of Southern Africa’s leading hotel management groups, operating businesses and resort hotels in Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa.

Celebrated leisure hotels in the Group are the Mowana Safari Resort & Spa and Cresta Sprayview in Victoria Falls.

Cresta Marakanelo is the operating company for the 11 Cresta Hotels in Botswana.

Cresta started hotel operations in 1958, when it began running the Jameson Hotel in Harare. Cresta Holdings is a hotel management company registered in Botswana.

Source: Multi-million-dollar hotel set for Vic Falls (24th May 2024)

See Also

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (12th January 2023) Tourism sector attracts US$300m investment.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Multi-million-dollar hotel set for Vic Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (10th October 2024) Another Cresta managed hotel for Vic Falls as UCPF seeks US$2.9m.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (11th October 2024) Unified Councils Pension Fund seeks US$3m for new hotel.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th November 2024) Victoria Falls to get two new upmarket hotels.

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

 

Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal

(24th May 2024)

Keep Victoria Falls Wild

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: President Mnangagwa yesterday (23rd May 2024) laid the foundation stone to mark the beginning of work on the construction of the controversial Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium in Victoria Falls, part of an ambitious government drive to develop a US$5 billion national tourism economy by 2025 (The Chronicle, May 2024).

The 10,000 seater stadium is to be developed by Zimbabwe Cricket in preparation for the 2027 World Cup which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe. The construction of the stadium will apparently be funded with a grant of "between US$5 million and US$10 million" from the International Cricket Council, although no final estimate of the total cost of the development has been announced, and no developer has yet been identified to undertake the construction, which is proposed to include the construction of a playing field, practice nets, scoreboards, broadcast and media centre, changing rooms, hospitality facilities, grandstand and other spectator areas"

Concept design for the proposed Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium

The stadium is part of the Government initiative to lure investment in the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone, a 1,200 site within virgin woodland and part of the Jafuta-Masuwe Estate located about 10 kilometres south of Victoria Falls.

In addition Zimbabwe Cricket were allocated 10 hectares of land for the construction of the international cricket stadium and supporting facilities on a 25-year lease basis.

Zimbabwe Cricket chairperson Tavengwa Mukhulani previously commented:

“We have somehow found favour with the Victoria Falls Town Council who have given us a piece of land which we think is ideal to develop a stadium. Our focus is to decentralise cricket and to make it available and accessible to the fans. We don’t want a Midlands fan to travel to Harare to watch a player from Midlands. You want them to watch that player in their backyard; it stimulates interest and just helps grow the game.” (iharare.com, May 2024)

The comments appear to ignore that Victoria Falls is isolated from the major urban areas and rest of Zimbabwe due to poor maintenance of the country's transport infrastructure - with no public services by rail and the main transport road in urgent need of upgrade.

The proposals follow failed attempts by the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) to raise investors to build a rugby stadium at Victoria Falls in 2018 and similarly unrealised plans for a F1 Grand Prix circuit (The Chronicle, July 2021).

Foundation stone for the unrealised Grand prix circuit development

(click image for larger view).

A Hard Sell

Barbara Rwodzi, the Tourism minister, was recently in South Africa trying to tempt further investors.

"Since she was appointed, Rwodzi said she had been running around to make use of the allocated land. 'I have 261 hectares now. Ten hectares have gone to Cricket Zimbabwe to build this stadium with its amenities, a three-star hotel and others,” the Tourism minister said.

“We are here, your government, with terms and conditions, which are quite flexible. My boss (Mnangagwa) told me it ‘is a special economic zone for lease for 25 years. But listen to the investor, talk to the investor and always come to us and discuss if there are any adjustments that need to be made’.

“We have vast land in Victoria Falls, 1,200 hectares in an area called Masuwe that is for Special Economic Zones for tourism only. Two hundred and seventy-one hectares is under the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry. It has a title deed. The 1,200 hectares used to belong to our ministry,” she added.

“It is ready land,” Rwodzi told the conference. No stories, no back and forth, I have the titled deed. The conversation starts and ends here.” (The Independent, May 2024)

Yet despite her best efforts, it appears that the Masuwe development project has so far failed to attract additional investors, with no further developments yet announced within the Masuwe development zone.

Development Costs

The development of the first phase of the Masuwe project, covering a total of 274 hectares and including the stadium and hotel facilities, will necessitate a significant expansion in the City's utilities infrastructure, with the construction of bulk water supply systems and the development of internal water, sanitation, roads and storm-water drains estimated to cost of US$120 million (The Sunday Mail, March 2023). There has yet to be any announcement on the funding or timescale for these works leaving residents wondering who will be picking up the bill. It is estimated that to maintain the cricket field alone will require 2,500 to 3,000 litres of water every day.

There are also transport infrastructure implications, with no train service to the Falls and the main road dangerous and in urgent need of repair. 

A second phase will see the development of services to the remaining 930 hectares at an estimated cost of approximately US$85 million.

The site of the proposed development - already cleared of trees and stripped of all biodiversity

Environmental Concerns

The proposed construction of the cricket stadium has come under criticism, with Joanah Mamombe, chairperson of the parliamentary portfolio committee on Environment, Wildlife, Tourism and Hospitality raising questions in the National Assembly over potential negative impacts on tourism and the Falls' World Heritage Status.

"Victoria Falls is renowned for its natural environment and wildlife. Our tourism industry is heavily reliant on nature-based attractions... There are many other cities in Zimbabwe that could host the stadium that has been proposed thereby distributing the economic benefits without sacrificing the environmental integrity... UNESCO heritage status is also at risk as we note that Victoria Falls was previously facing serious risks of losing the UNESCO world heritage due to the developments that threaten its natural state... Instead, we should explore alternative locations that do not compromise our valuable natural resources and conservation efforts" (NewZimbabwe.com, May 2024).

At the ground-break ceremony the President attempted to dismiss these concerns, making the extraordinary claim that the development would somehow 'enhance the natural heritage' of the Falls.

“This project, here in Victoria Falls, is most welcome as it will enhance the rich natural heritage associated with our premier resort city” (The Chronicle, May 2024).

The President also commented, rather ambiguously:

“Architectural designs and the built environment within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone and across the City of Victoria Falls should seamlessly blend with the natural environment, towards promoting sustainable tourism and socio-economic development” (The Chronicle, May 2024).

In promoting the development Zimbabwe Cricket envisage the construction "blending into the surrounding forest and connecting with the context of the resort town" (thestadiumbusiness.com, May 2024).

UNESCO, however, are yet to comment on the proposals -  primarily due to the fact that Zimbabwean authorities have so far failed to formally notify them of the Masuwe project, or its potential impacts on the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, which borders part of the development (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, May 2024).

Read the background to the Masuwe SEZ development on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website 

Read more on the wave of tourism developments which currently threaten the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website and follow us on Facebook for latest updates.

References

The Zimbabwe Mail (June 2021) Old Mutual, Govt strike Vic Falls land deal for new hotel project, 2 June 2021.

The Chronicle (July 2021) Victoria Falls F1 circuit construction reaches major milestone. 2 July 2021.

dailynews.co.zw (August 2021) Minister appoints new Mosi Oa Tunya board, 30th August 2021.

The Sunday Mail (March 2023) Victoria Falls: US$200 million tourism project comes alive, 22 March 2023.

The Sunday News (March 2023) Govt okays Victoria Falls SEZ, 22nd March 2023

The Zimbabwe Independent (May 2024) Zim govt unveils plan for Vic Falls hospitality gems 10th May 2024.

NewZimbabwe.com (May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium, 22nd May 2024

The Chronicle (May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products, 24th May 2014.

thesadiumbusiness.com (May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium, 24 May 2024

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site, 22nd May 2024

Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium

(Zimbabwe)

Concerns have been raised over the proposed construction of a multipurpose sporting facility in Victoria Falls, with fears that it may disrupt the area's biodiversity.

Last week the cabinet approved the construction of a cricket stadium in Victoria Falls ahead of the 2027 World Cup jointly hosted by Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia.

Jonah Mamombe , chairperson of the parliamentary portfolio committee on Environment, Wildlife, Tourism and Hospitality said rapid developments in Victoria Falls could its scenic beauty.

"Tuesday, Cabinet approved a proposed plan to construct a multi=purpose stadium in Victoria Falls. Hon Speaker, Victoria Falls is renowned for its natural environment and wildlife. Our tourism industry is heavily reliant on nature-based attractions. Zimbabwe is the third largest country in terms of wildlife resource, that is, rhinos, elephants and so forth.' said Mamombe.

Mamombe emphasized the importance of prerserving Victoria Falls' natural environment and wildlife, highlighting the heavy reliance of the tourism industry on nature-based attractions.

"Why do we recognised the importance of infrastructure developments Hon. Speaker? It is its potential to attract more tourists. We cannot achieve this without disrupting our biodiversity. There are many other cities in Zimbabwe that could host the stadium that has been proposed thereby distributing the economic benefits without sacrificing the environmental integrity.

"If tourists Hon, Speaker, can travel from South Africa to come and visit Victoria Falls, I am sure they can do the same to travel from other cities to go and visit Victoria Falls. UNESCO heritage status is also at risk as we note that Victoria Falls was previously facing serious risks of losing the UNESCO world heritage due to the developments that threaten its natural state," said Mamombe.

The construction of the facility will be done through the Zimbabwean government established Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company (Pvt) Ltd.

The state-owned enterprise acts as an investment vehicle which was established to propel tourism growth in Victoria Falls, with a focus on luxury travel.

Manangagwa is expected to lay the stone for the foundation of the stadium which the government is hoping to increase sports tourism in the resort town of Victoria Falls.

Mamombe demanded the appearance of Sports Minister Kirsty Coventry to issue a ministerial statement to explain the construction of the stadium in Victoria Falls.

She suggested considering alternative locations for the stadium to distrubute economic benefits without sacrificing environmental integrity.

"Hon Speaker, instead, we should explore alternative locations that do not compromise our valuable natureal resources and conservation efforts. I, therefore, pray that the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, together ith the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture bring a Ministerial Statement to elaborate on this plan to this august House," said Mamobe.

Source: Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium (21st May 2024)

See Also

Ambitions for an international-standard cricket stadium at Victoria Falls first put forward in 2010 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 2nd July 2010). Land just off Pioneer Road in Victoria Falls’ industrial site between the railway line and Chinotimba suburb was allocated for the project, before the plans were finally shelved in 2016 following lack of investment interest (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th October 2016). Project resurrected in2024. Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th May 2024) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025 – govt.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (21st May 2024) Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th May 2024) Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal.

thesadiumbusiness.com (25th May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th July 2024) Zimbabwe building stadium near scenic Victoria Falls, project funded by ICC.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th March 2025) New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th June 2025) Multi-purpose stadium to unlock sporting talent in Matabeleland North.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (7th August 2025) Presidential blessing for Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd September 2025) Construction of Victoria Falls Cricket Ground takes shape

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls website. 

Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site

(22nd May 2024)

Plans by the Zimbabwean Government to develop the Masuwe Special Economic Zone and Monde Tourism Town at Victoria Falls, part of a drive to develop a US$5 billion tourism economy by 2025, appear to ignore potential negative impacts on the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.

Cabinet approved implementation of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone project (MSEZP) in March 2023 after a feasibility study endorsed the profitability of the plan (The Sunday News, March 2023). Plans for the development of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone include the controversial construction of an international standard 10,000 seat cricket stadium (NewZimbabwe.com, May 2024a) as well as a four-star hotel with 5,000 seat conference facility, medical facilities, a golf estate and a shopping mall.

Both the Masuwe Special Economic Zone and Monde Tourism Town developments in part border the southern section of the Victoria Falls National Park, designated part of the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site. Along with other recent tourism developments at the Falls, the two significant development schemes are not disclosed to UNESCO in the latest State of Conservation Report as required under the World Heritage Listing (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, May 2024).

Map showing area of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site and location of the proposed Masuwe Special Economic Zone and Monde Tourism Town developments (click image for larger view).

The area of the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site is supposed to be protected by a 500m 'Buffer Zone' which surrounds the site and aims to restrict development and prevent a 'hard' boundary between developed and natural areas (State Parties, 2007). The proposed develpment schemes for both the Masuwe Special Economic Zone and Monde Tourism Town appear to make no concession for this zone.

The Masuwe development in partcular will have impacts upon the Masuwe river, with sewage and landfill sites adjoining the river, and which afterwards flows through the World Heritage Site to the Zambezi. The development will also place additional demands upon the city's already overloaded water and electricity needs, requring an expansion of water extraction from the Zambezi above the Falls.

The proposed construction of the cricket stadium has also come under criticism, with Joanah Mamombe, chairperson of the parliamentary portfolio committee on Environment, Wildlife, Tourism and Hospitality raising questons in Parliament over potential negative impacts on tourism and the Falls' World Heritage Status.

"Victoria Falls is renowned for its natural environment and wildlife. Our tourism industry is heavily reliant on nature-based attractions... There are many other cities in Zimbabwe that could host the stadium that has been proposed thereby distributing the economic benefits without sacrificing the environmental integrity... UNESCO heritage status is also at risk as we note that Victoria Falls was previously facing serious risks of losing the UNESCO world heritage due to the developments that threaten its natural state... Instead, we should explore alternative locations that do not compromise our valuable natural resources and conservation efforts. " (NewZimbabwe.com, May 2024b).

Speaking in December 2023, Victoria Falls City economy development and marketing manager Mr Ngqabutho Moyo was reported stating “We want to turn the destination into a family and 24-hour city like Las Vegas” (The Herald, December 2023).

More recently, the town's new mayor, Mr Prince Thuso, commented “Council is passionate about development and is on a crusade to lure development to the City of Victoria Falls” (The Zimbabwe Independent, May 2024).

Read the background to the Masuwe SEZ development on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website 

Read more on the wave of tourism developments which currently threaten the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website and follow us on Facebook for latest updates.

References

The Sunday News (March 2023) Govt okays Victoria Falls SEZ, 22nd March 2023

The Herald (December 2023) Council to turn Vic Falls into ‘little Las Vegas’, 27th December 2023

NewZimbabwe.com (May 2024a) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025, 15th May 2024

NewZimbabwe.com (May 2024b) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium – says it compromises conservation efforts, 22nd May 2024

The Zimbabwe Independent (May 2024)Vic Falls under fire over irregular land sale, 17th May 2024.

See Also

Ambitions for an international-standard cricket stadium at Victoria Falls first put forward in 2010 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 2nd July 2010). Land just off Pioneer Road in Victoria Falls’ industrial site between the railway line and Chinotimba suburb was allocated for the project, before the plans were finally shelved in 2016 following lack of investment interest (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th October 2016). Project resurrected in2024. Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th May 2024) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025 – govt.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (21st May 2024) Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th May 2024) Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal.

thesadiumbusiness.com (25th May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th July 2024) Zimbabwe building stadium near scenic Victoria Falls, project funded by ICC.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th March 2025) New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th June 2025) Multi-purpose stadium to unlock sporting talent in Matabeleland North.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (7th August 2025) Presidential blessing for Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd September 2025) Construction of Victoria Falls Cricket Ground takes shape

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls website. 

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge celebrates 30 years

 To mark its 30th anniversary this year, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated establishments – is chronicling its vibrant history and looking towards a new era of innovation.

Since its inception on December 14, 1994, the luxury lodge has drawn  travellers from around the globe, becoming synonymous with the world-famous Victoria Falls. Accolades have poured in. The lodge was awarded the Best Resort Hotel in Zimbabwe for 25 years in succession by the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents, and was recently listed among the Top 10% of hotels around the world in the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.

As part of the milestone anniversary, the lodge will produce of a series of short films and a coffee-table book capturing the lodge's history and the people at the centre of it, its commitment to conservation, and the beauty of one of Africa’ most iconic destinations.

Co-Founder and Director Ross Kennedy said the occasion would usher in a new era for the lodge.

“It is with great pride and gratitude that we celebrate 30 years of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.  As we celebrate, we stand at the threshold of an exciting new chapter. We are committed to exploring innovative avenues for development that will not only enhance our guests' experiences but also contribute positively to the local community and the environment in which we operate, and we look forward to unveiling these exciting developments.”

Community and conservation

MD Nigel Frost said long-term success in the evolving marketplace had hinged on hospitality excellence and commitment to the conservation and communities of the region. 

“Our 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of milestones achieved, but it is also a testament to the resilience, dedication, and passion of everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.  Despite the challenges we've faced, we have emerged stronger and more determined than ever to continue our mission of being a catalyst for positive change in the region and a trailblazer in the tourism landscape.”

Through various initiatives and partnerships, including the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit and the Wildlife Conservation Coalition, the Victoria Falls Recycling project and the Vulture Culture Experience, the lodge continues to make an impact by supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that the beauty of Victoria Falls is preserved.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is the flagship property of Zimbabwean hospitality group, Africa Albida Tourism. Other properties in the group’s portfolio include Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, Victoria Falls Safari Spa and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, 4km from the Victoria Falls.

Source: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge celebrates 30 years (21/05/2024)

Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium

AN opposition lawmaker has put Tourism minister Barbra Rwodzi and her Sports and Recreation ministry counterpart Kirsty Coventry on the spot for approving a proposal to construct a cricket stadium in Victoria  Falls.

She said the proposed project had the potential to harm the area's natural resources, thereby compromising its UNESCO World Heritage site status.

Last week, Information minister Jenfan Muswere announced that Cabinet had approved the proposed plan.

Harare West legislator Joana Mamombe raised concern over the project in Parliament this week saying the proposed stadium could negatively affect the resort town's biodiversity and environmental integrity.

Mamombe demanded that the two ministers submit a joint ministerial statement to justify their decision.

She suggested that the government could explore alternative locations for the stadium to avoid compromising Victoria Falls' natural resources and conservation efforts.

“Our tourism industry is heavily reliant on nature-based attractions. Zimbabwe is the third largest country in terms of wildlife resources, that is, rhinos, elephants, and so forth. Why do we recognise the importance of infrastructure development?  It is its potential to attract more tourists."

She added: “There are many other cities in Zimbabwe that could host the stadium that has been proposed, thereby distributing the economic benefits without sacrificing the environmental integrity

She added : "If tourists can travel from South Africa to come and visit Victoria Falls, I am sure they can do the same to travel from other cities to go and visit Victoria Falls.

“UNESCO World Heritage status is also at risk as we note that Victoria Falls was previously facing serious risks of losing the UNESCO World Heritage status due to the developments that threaten its natural state.”

“Instead, we should explore alternative locations that do not compromise our valuable natural resources and conservation efforts.”

“I, therefore, pray that the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality together with the Minister of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture bring a ministerial statement to elaborate on this plan to this august House,” Mamombe said.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda acknowledged Mamombe’s concerns and assured her that the master plan and an environmental impact assessment would address these issues.

“Your concern, in terms of protection of the environment, is noted.  However, there is a master plan that is going to take care of that eventuality and also, if you may recall, the Environmental Impact Assessment will be made before any such infrastructural development takes place,”

“It is my hope that the concern you are raising will indeed be given due respect.”

 “Do not forget that Victoria Falls, in terms of its master plan, has accommodated the flora and fauna of Hwange National Park which is adjacent to the boundary of the city.  So, I think your concerns will be taken care of and it may not be necessary to ask for a Ministerial Statement,” Mudenda said.

Source: Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium (21/05/2024)

See Also

Ambitions for an international-standard cricket stadium at Victoria Falls first put forward in 2010 (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 2nd July 2010). Land just off Pioneer Road in Victoria Falls’ industrial site between the railway line and Chinotimba suburb was allocated for the project, before the plans were finally shelved in 2016 following lack of investment interest (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 24th October 2016). Project resurrected in2024. Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th May 2024) Vic Falls cricket stadium to be completed by August 2025 – govt.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (21st May 2024) Opposition legislator fumes over proposed Vic Falls stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Parliament raises red flags on proposed Victoria Falls cricket stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd May 2024) Zimbabwe Government plans to develop Victoria Falls ignore impacts on World Heritage Site.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th May 2024) Concerns grow over costs and impacts of controversial Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium proposal.

thesadiumbusiness.com (25th May 2024) Work begins on Victoria Falls’ Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (25th May 2024) Victoria Falls cricket ground to broaden tourism products.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th July 2024) Zimbabwe building stadium near scenic Victoria Falls, project funded by ICC.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th March 2025) New Mecca of Zimbabwe Cricket takes shape.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th June 2025) Multi-purpose stadium to unlock sporting talent in Matabeleland North.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (7th August 2025) Presidential blessing for Victoria Falls Cricket Stadium.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd September 2025) Construction of Victoria Falls Cricket Ground takes shape

Read more on the Keep Victoria Falls website.