Zim, UN to collaborate in tourism growth

 Zimbabwe remains committed to working closely with UN Tourism to showcase its beauty, endowments and hospitality, and will continue collaborating to enhance the country’s standing as a premier global destination, President Mnangagwa has said.

The President said this on his X handle soon after meeting visiting United Nations Tourism Secretary General Ms Shaikha al Noiwas at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare.

Ms Nowais is the first female to steer the organisation since its inception in 1975.

She arrived in the country on Sunday, through Victoria Falls, and is leading a high-level UN Tourism delegation set to hold a series of meetings in the country’s tourism hub.

The meetings seek to advance sustainable and inclusive tourism.

“It was an honour to welcome Ms Shaikha al Nowais, the recently appointed Secretary-General of UN Tourism, this afternoon. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first woman to helm the organisation in its 50-year history,” said President Mnangagwa.

“We discussed enhancing Zimbabwe’s standing as a premier global destination and harnessing sustainable tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. Zimbabwe remains committed to collaborating closely with UN Tourism to showcase the beauty and hospitality of our nation to the world.”

In an interview soon after meeting President Mnangagwa, Ms Nowais commended Zimbabwe’s efforts to boost the sector, saying it was paying dividends given the rise in tourist arrivals coupled with a surge in revenue.

She commended President Mnangagwa’s administration for driving the tourism industry, saying the country was set to achieve its national objectives.

“Look, I think Zimbabwe has come a long way with the leadership of the President and with the Honourable Minister executing and having a plan in place. I think they are on the right path. They have done a lot over the years. They have witnessed a growth of 10 percent of tourism arrivals only in 2025, which is a testament to the plan they have and the vision they have for tourism in Zimbabwe,” said Ms Nowais.

Commenting on her discussion with President Mnangagwa, she said he emphasised the importance of the sector.

“The President said that tourism is a driver, a key driver for the national economy of Zimbabwe. His belief in the sector is instrumental in what we see today for Zimbabwe,” she said.

Ms Nowais said she was visiting member countries to have an appreciation of their tourism ecosystem. “It is my first time to be in Zimbabwe, yes, but it will not be my last, that’s for sure. I will be visiting other countries. We have 161 member states from five different regions, so I have to visit as many as I can,” said Ms Nowais, who said she will be returning to Victoria Falls for a series of meetings.

Furthermore, she said she took her new responsibility with humility.

“It is not an easy job, but I feel that where there is a will, there is a way and when you are dedicated and committed to something, anything is possible,” she said.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi said several meetings had been earmarked for the UN Tourism Secretary General with the sector’s stakeholders. “Today (yesterday), this morning, the Secretary-General opened a committee on Sustainable Tourism, which is an existing committee in the UN Tourism and it was an important meeting. It speaks more about sustaining and resilience in the sector.

“But one big highlight for us as a country is that today the UN Tourism Secretary General unveiled the logo for the next year UN General Assembly 2027, which speaks to tourism resilience and sustainability, and the logo was unveiled here in Zimbabwe to the world, for the first time, it was in Victoria Falls,” said Minister Rwodzi.

“We are very proud of that and it speaks volumes about our destination; it also speaks volumes about the relationship between the Government of Zimbabwe through our President, Dr ED Mnangagwa, and the United Nations Tourism, so it is an endorsement of a destination. We are very excited and very grateful to UN Tourism.”

Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is experiencing a strong resurgence, with 2024 seeing over 1,6 million international arrivals and $1,2 billion in revenue. Growth is driven by infrastructure upgrades, such as the expanded Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, alongside increased investment, rising 11 percent to $190 million in 2024.

Source: ‘Zim, UN to collaborate in tourism growth’ (28/04/2026)

Inside the revival of The Victoria Falls Hotel

When people speak of The Victoria Falls Hotel, they inevitably conjure the image of an ageing but regal woman. Truthfully, it’s a hard metaphor not to lean on, because, well, it just seems so poetically accurate.

There she sits in her vast cream coat, with coiled metal Juliet balconies, and a wide petticoat of polished red concrete flooring, arms wrapping around an emerald-green lawn. Every morning for the last 120 years she has woken to the sun rising over the Victoria Falls in the gorge below. Every night she watches it set – you hope, with a gin and tonic in hand.

At some times she’s needed a stiff drink more than at others. After all, the old duck has seen a lot, and she’s hosted everyone from the Queen of England in 1947 to the king of pop in 1988.

But it’s not all been smooth sailing. Sometimes there’s been no water in her town, sometimes no electricity (or “zesa”, as the locals call it). Politicians have come and gone, currencies too. But one must always keep a stiff upper lip, and so she’s carried on regardless.

On the up

I was last in her company 15 years ago, and she was looking a little jaded then.

But now things, I’m pleased to report, are on the up. When I visited in late 2025, The Victoria Falls Hotel had undeniably taken a turn for the better. Interiors are being spruced up, service is sharp and there’s a renewed air of magic about. I suspect you have to give new(ish) general manager Roddy Meiring and his team credit for her much improved state.

It must be a bloody hard job, but watching him moving between tables and spaces, checking on guests and staff, you get a sense that he’s really getting to grips with the challenge.

Having run luxury properties including the Victoria Falls River Lodge and the MORE Collection’s Livingstone and Stanley Boutique Hotel, Meiring knows both the area and the calibre of property. His father Roy was a career hospitality man, and CEO of Meikles Africa Hotels, so Meiring junior literally grew up in hotels. It’s something that must certainly help when you’re tasked with running a property with 149 rooms and suites, and a large team.

It’s all in the details

It’s immediately evident that Meiring has an eye for details, and he tells me how one of the first things he did on joining was to procure two robotic lawn mowers to get the expansive front lawns under control. We pause our chat to watch them painstakingly zigzag back and forth. They are strangely mesmerizing, gliding over the meticulous green grass.

He also introduced a gammon to the breakfast buffet. Turns out it’s a Meiring family hospitality must-have, and one I admit having immediately spotted and thought, “How fabulous!”

In fact, breakfast has me behaving a little foolishly. The offering is impressive and detailed. Beyond the Bloody Mary station (and the gammon), the baby pains au chocolat are heavenly. Arguably the best I’ve had outside France.

I mention that my mum, in Joburg, would love them, and in a matter of moments, the staff pack up a fresh batch for her, to be transported as hand luggage. Later that same day they are enjoyed with tea in the City of Gold. Fussy Buitendach senior pronounces them excellent. 

A bit of sleuthing

The previous afternoon, I’d taken a quick peek through the thick glass windowpanes into the dining hall. The week before my visit, the new cream dining chairs were delivered. Now the room, with its high ceilings, Art Deco screens and chinoiserie wallpaper insets, looks poised to host a stately dinner.

Not that I am there for one. Rather I take to my suite for a room-service club sandwich and Coke, enjoyed in my pyjamas. But before that moment of unadulterated hedonism, I continue my stalk around the property.

I have access to the Bulawayo Room (their VIP lounge) and so make a point of briefly collapsing on a couch there to take advantage of the aircon, a snifter of port and a salmon sandwich. I could well have been in an Edwardian BBC period drama, were it not for the portrait of the last king of the Ndebele, Lobengula Khumalo, keeping a steady eye over tea.

When I put my head into the Stanley Bar afterwards, a handful of tourists in khaki flak jackets are enjoying cocktails. They looked positively thrilled with life. Who could blame them? Likewise, I was not surprised to see a bunch of visitors walk onto the terrace, see the Vic Falls gorge beyond, and, as if on cue, immediately break into big smiles.

However you spin it, this is undoubtedly one of the great hotels of the world, and you feel special even being there for a nanosecond.

Makeover!

Her equivalents like Raffles in Singapore and the Belmond Mount Nelson in Cape Town, have, in recent years, all had big cash injections (it does help being owned by luxury group LVMH, as is the case with the latter) and now they come complete with designer rooms, globally renowned chefs and pool cabanas.

But The Victoria Falls Hotel is also in the process of some sprucing up. They’re rolling out room refurbs soon and are just finishing off a complete upgrade to the Jungle Junction, their outdoor dining area.

The property is owned by Emerging Railways Properties, a joint venture between the National Railways of Zimbabwe and Zambia Railways, so fittingly, if you’re travelling by Rovos Rail, the journey begins (or ends) right here.

That said, operations are led by a partnership of the African Sun and Meikles Africa groups, and I get a strong sense that the companies are putting the focus on taking the old-school charisma and luxury up several notches.

Other good signs include a globally renowned Patrick Mavros jewellery boutique at the entrance, but there is also something appealing about the fact that this place is not all glitz and high concept. Its heart is warm and bones are old, and that’s what makes it perennially appealing.

The top spot

It also helps that it’s in the best position in the whole town. Not just for the falls themselves, but also because you leave the gate by foot and are immediately in the thick of shops and restaurants and markets.

Dinner and a bit of jazz at GOAT, a tasting at the River Brewing Co, a couple of fine leopard stone carvings from African Trophy Dealers in the lovely Elephant Walk centre – you pop in, then saunter back to the hotel for a rock shandy and snooze. Easy as that.

It’s not a cheap trip on rands (you’re looking at around R11,000 per night in off season for a standard room, and R22,000 per night for a premium one), but it’s well worth it.

There are many places to stay in this western Zimbabwean city, but The Victoria Falls Hotel is bucket-list stuff, and visiting now means you get to see the lovely lady looking rather rosy from a continued and very much well-earned dose of love and attention.

Source: Inside the revival of The Victoria Falls Hotel (26th April 2026)

Fatal Human–Elephant Encounter Recorded In Mukuni Chiefdom

Lusaka, 25th April 2026 —

The Ministry of Tourism, through the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), regrets to confirm a fatal human-wildlife conflict incident involving an African elephant in Mukuni Chiefdom,Siamapa Village, in Livingstone District.

The incident occurred between 22:00 hours and 23:00 hours on the night of 24th April 2026. The deceased has been identified as Ms. Lozia Ngawaka, aged 54, a resident of Siamapa Village.

Preliminary reports indicate that the victim, in the company of her husband, was walking from Mukuni Palace towards Siamapa Village when they encountered a roaming elephant within a known wildlife movement corridor. The elephant is believed to have charged during the encounter, resulting in the fatality. The husband survived the incident.

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife has since dispatched a field team to the area to verify details, assess the situation on the ground and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. The remains of the deceased have been collected and deposited at Batoka Mortuary pending burial arrangements.

Initial assessments suggest that the incident may have been a defensive reaction by the animal, possibly triggered by close proximity and reduced visibility during night hours, which are typically periods of increased elephant activity.

The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the community of Siamapa Village during this difficult time.

The Ministry further urges members of the public, particularly those living in or near wildlife corridors, to exercise heightened caution. Movement during late hours in such areas should be avoided, as it significantly increases the risk of encounters with wild animals.

In response to the incident, the Ministry, through DNPW, is intensifying community sensitization programmes, strengthening early warning systems and promoting the use of appropriate deterrent measures in high-risk areas.

Issaued by

Nelly Banda, Principal Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Tourism

Banda.Nelly@mot.gov.zm

Read more: Paying the Price - Living with Giants on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.  

Zambezi River levels at Victoria Falls experience early peak

Lots of talk on social media about the volume of the Falls at the moment - some are even claiming highest levels in seventy years - tourism media hype or reality? Zambezi River Authority data shows river levels at the Falls have experienced an early rise in levels, and levels are high, with flow rates exceeding 4,000 cubic metres a second, but within normal ranges and by no means exceptional. The trend is much as per 2019-20, which also experienced an early peak to similar levels, followed by a second peak in June - but not many people experienced the Falls during this high season due to the global pandemic (Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs, 23rd April 2020). It remains to be seen whether this year will follow with a similar second peak.

The 2017/8 flood cycle experienced a slightly higher peak, but later in May, while 2009/10 recorded a yet higher 'double peak' (but still below 5,000 cubic metres/second) and 2008/9 recorded an even higher early peak (exceeding 5,500 cubic metres/second). Individual years prior to this date are not shown, with the long-term mean indicated by the dashed red line (partially obscured by subsequent data), but the exceptional flood years of 1977/8 and 1968/9 are shown, when flow rates exceeded 6,000 and 8,000 cubic metres a second respectively. The highest recorded flood levels at the Falls was 9,346 cubic metres/second in March 1958 (not shown on hydrograph).

Source: Zambezi River Authority website. [click to enlarge]

What is abundantly clear from the hydrograph is the extreme variability in seasonal flow over the Falls - from lows of 300 cubic metres/second to highs of 3,000 cubic metres/second, and huge variability in annual flood levels, reflecting variability in seasonal rainfall across the vast catchment area of the Upper Zambezi, covering western Zambia, including the vast Barotse Floodplains, and into south-eastern Angola (covering over 515,000 square kilomertres). What is of particular note from the hydrograph is that 2023-24 was an exceptionally 'flat' year, with peak flows hardly exceeding 1,000 cubic metres/second, and highlighting the extreme variability between flood years.

Data on river flow levels has been collected at the Victoria Falls since 1907, providing a huge data set of information on historical flow levels - and showing the large variation in annual rainfall.

Zambezi River mean annual flow, Victoria Falls (1907-2002)

(Source: Moore et al, 2007, Fig.15.11c) [click to enlarge]

The authors Moore et al (2007) recorded a mean annual flow at the Victoria Falls (!907-2002) of 1,087 cubic metres/second.

"Records of water level from the hydrological station at Victoria Falls, taken since 1907 are illustrated in Figure 15.11c. These indicate lower than normal years for 1907-46, above normal for the years 1947-81, and again below normal for 1982-1997. A major flood of 1958, during the construction of Kariba Dam, followed heavy rains in the upper catchment and also the local catchment below Victoria Falls. A coffer dam was overtopped and a road bridge washed away – at its peak some 9,000 m3 s−1 were passing over the Victoria Falls. In magnitude it was equivalent to the 1 in 100 year flood, which in turn is roughly half the probable maximum flood of 21,000 m3 s−1." (Moore et al, 2007)

In late 2025, new research revealed the previously unrecognised significance of the Angolan headwaters as the dominant and geographic source of the Zambezi, identifying a new source of the Zambezi (as defined by the furthest distance from its mouth), the Lungwebungu River headwaters in Angola, located about 1,440 m (4,720 ft) above sea level, and also increasing the defined length of the river (Lourenço et al, 2025). The total length from the Lungwebungu source to the Indian Ocean is 3,421 km, whereas the total length from the traditional or mainstem Zambezi source to the Indian Ocean is now calculated to be 3,079 km.

The research showed that during the 2023 flood season the majority of the water flowing over the Falls and into Lake Kariba originated from the Angolan Headwaters (the 'Angolan Heights Water Tower'), highlighting the importance of these tributary sources to downstream water flow and security.

"Based on point-in-time measurements conducted during the late rainfall season between March and May 2023, we estimate that approximately 70% of the water entering the Kariba Reservoir, below Victoria Falls, originates in the AHWT [Angolan Heights Water Tower]. While preliminary, these initial findings suggest a potentially substantial Angolan contribution to downstream flows, with important but previously underappreciated implications for transboundary river management and policy." (Lourenço et al, 2025)

References

Lourenço, M, Boyes, R.S, Cotterill, F.P.D, Flügel, T, Nyoni, F.C, Ramatlapeng, G J, & Von Brandis, R. (2025) Assessment of source regions of the Zambezi river: Implications for regional water security. Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, 29(18), 4557-4583.

Moore, A E, Fenton P.D, Cotterill F.P.D, Main, M.P. L. and Williams H.B. (2007) The Zambezi River. In Gupta, A [Editor] (2007) Large Rivers - Geomorphology and Management. Chapter 15. John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, England.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd April 2020) Victoria Falls Reaches It’s Highest Level In A Decade.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (8th April 2026) Vic Falls allure spawns tourist rush.

ZRA calls for public input on development of Batoka Gorge Hydro-electric Power Station

 The Zambezi River Authority has called on the public and other interested stakeholders to a consultative meeting next Tuesday in Victoria Falls on the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro-electric Power Station to be jointly developed by Zimbabwe and Zambia on the Zambezi River.

The US$5 billion project is expected to generate 2 400 MW for the two countries that have endured power shortages, negatively affecting their respective economies.

“The ZRA proposes to develop the Batoka Gorge Hydro-electric Scheme, a major power generation project with an installed capacity of up to 2,400 MW, along the Zambezi River, which forms the common boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe,” read part of a statement from ZRA.

“The project involves the construction of a dam wall across the Zambezi River, approximately 47 km downstream of Victoria Falls, and the development of two power stations, one on the Zambian side and the other on the Zimbabwean side of the River. The project will also include the development of townships on both sides of the River.

“The consultations are being done in accordance with the Environmental Management Act and the Environmental Management (Environmental impact Assessment and Ecosystems Protection) Regulations (S17 of 2007), which compels ZRA to conduct public consultation meetings for such projects

“As part of the Environmental Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process, these meetings aim to inform stakeholders about the proposed project and provide an opportunity to submit views, concerns, and recommendations.

“The ZRA, therefore, cordially invites members of the public, Traditional Leaders, Government Agencies, Local Authorities, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Faith-Based Organisations (FBOs), Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), the business community, and all other interested and affected parties to attend the public meetings,” read part of the statement.

The two countries have already committed US$440 million as seed capital for the project.

Zimbabwe and Zambia also share the Kariba Dam Hydro-electric Power Station.

Source: ZRA calls for public input on development of Batoka Gorge Hydro-electric Power Station (23/08/2026)

Read more:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd April 2026) ZRA calls for public input on development of Batoka Gorge Hydro-electric Power Station.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (1st April 2026) $4.2BN Power Play: Zambia and Zimbabwe Partner on Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th February 2026) Fresh momentum for Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electric Scheme.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (31st December 2025) Zimbabwe, Zambia commit US$440m to Batoka Gorge project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (4th December 2025) AFRY to update key studies for Batoka Gorge project, Zambia.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (2nd June 2025) Zimbabwe And Zambia Renew Investor Search For Batoka Gorge Project.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (3rd May 2025) Zambia, Zimbabwe Court Investors to Revive $5 Billion Hydro Dam.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (22nd November 2024) Zambezi River Authority updates Batoka project feasibility studies.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th March 2024) Zambia and Zimbabwe to retender $5bn Batoka Gorge hydropower plant

See also the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

African Sun exits VFEX, opts for unlisted status

 HARARE,– Hospitality group African Sun Limited has delisted from the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX), signalling a strategic shift to operate as an unlisted public company.

In a notice to shareholders, the group confirmed it had met all regulatory conditions for the voluntary termination of its listing, with trading in its shares ceasing on April 9.

“The company has fulfilled all regulatory requirements for the voluntary termination of its listing. The last day of trading on the VFEX was April 9, 2026, and the effective date of delisting was April 20, 2026,” said company secretary and governance executive V.T. Musimbe.

The exit follows shareholder approval at an extraordinary general meeting in March and a share buyback offer designed to consolidate ownership ahead of the delisting.

African Sun said repurchased shares would be processed in line with the Companies and Other Business Entities Act, with settlements commencing after the formal transfer of shares on April 20.

Post-delisting, the group will operate as a public unlisted entity, with an over-the-counter (OTC) facility to be introduced for shareholders who did not participate in the buyback.

“African Sun will transition to a public unlisted company effective April 20, 2026. Shareholders who did not participate in the offer will be provided with details of an OTC trading platform in due course,” the company said.

The move is a notable development for the VFEX, a foreign currency-denominated bourse established to attract offshore capital. Analysts say the delisting may weigh on liquidity and test investor confidence as issuers reassess the value proposition of listing on the relatively young exchange.

African Sun, one of Zimbabwe’s largest hotel groups, operates a portfolio of key tourism assets, and its strategic repositioning will be closely watched by investors and the hospitality sector.

Source: African Sun exits VFEX, opts for unlisted status (22/04/2026)

See also:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (10/03/2026) African Sun to Delist.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (12th December 2025) African Sun to shut down Elephant Hills for major overhaul.

JR Goddard consortium clinches deal to develop 271ha Victoria Falls commercial zone

 HARARE – The government has approved a joint venture deal with a consortium led by construction magnate JR Goddard to develop 271.5 hectares of commercial land near Victoria Falls.

The parcel – Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate – sits within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone, which is located inside the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, one of southern Africa’s premier tourism corridors.

Under the agreement announced following a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, the state investment arm Mosi Oa Tunya Development Company will contribute the land as equity, valued at US$25.6 million, giving government a 39 percent stake in the project. The JR Goddard (JRG) consortium will take 61 percent in return for committing US$66.9 million in infrastructure investment.

The partners will recoup profits over a 25-year period.

The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) ran the competitive tender last year.

The consortium’s infrastructure obligations include construction of roads, a 13-kilometre water pipeline, a water treatment plant, sewerage systems, and a power substation to service the estate.

ZIDA investment promotion documents show the broader development vision for the Masuwe SEZ includes hotels, villas, flats and holiday homes at an estimated cost of US$79.8 million; core infrastructure for US$81.6 million; two medical centres at US$15 million; a commercial centre and international financial services hub worth US$17 million; a tourism and hospitality school for US$10.7 million; a golf estate for US$10 million; and a multipurpose international cricket stadium at a cost of US$7.5 million which is already under construction.

The SEZ was gazetted on September 28, 2018, with the declared objective of creating a tourism and financial services hub integrating tourism, recreation, sporting facilities, commercial amenities, and an International Finance Centre.

The JRG consortium includes project managers Sesani, civil and structural engineers Stewart Scott Zimbabwe, and financial advisors Genesis Global Finance.

It is the same grouping that is separately raising capital to build the Glass Block Dam on Umzingwane River in Matabeleland South intended to alleviate Bulawayo’s chronic water shortages.

Victoria Falls, which straddles the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, draws hundreds of thousands of tourists annually and is regarded as Zimbabwe’s most bankable tourism asset.

Source: JR Goddard consortium clinches deal to develop 271ha Victoria Falls commercial zone (21/04/2026)

Read more on the Masuwe Special Economic Zone development proposals on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

Cabinet approves PPP for Masuwe SEZ bulk infrastructure development, Victoria Falls

(Zimbabwe) CABINET has approved a landmark Public-Private Partnership for the development of bulk infrastructure on Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone in Victoria Falls, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda has said.

Masuwe Special Economic Zone development area

Speaking after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting in Harare, Dr Soda said the proposal was endorsed between Mosi Oa Tunya Development Company (MTDC) and JR Goddard Private Limited (JRG).

“Cabinet approved the proposed Public-Private Partnership for the Development of Bulk Infrastructure on Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate in Masuwe Special Economic Zone, Victoria Falls, between Mosi Oa Tunya Development Company (MTDC) and JR Goddard Private Limited (JRG),” said Dr Soda.

“The Masuwe Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) is a flagship National Development Project which the Second Republic established in September 2018 with a strategic intent to transform Victoria Falls into a diversified, high-value hub integrating tourism, financial services and sustainable real estate.

“The Special Economic Zone encompasses a total of 1 200 hectares of Jafuta Estate, outside Victoria Falls City and is strategically located within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA)”.

He said the proposed project will entail the surfacing of an eight-kilometre internal road network, the upgrading of nine kilometres of gravel roads, and the construction of a 13-kilometre water pipeline covering the entire 1 200 hectares and neighbouring communities.

Other components include the construction of a package water treatment plant, a sewerage reticulation system, effluent reuse storage ponds, a power substation and the provision of management services for the Special Economic Zone.

“A rigorous evaluation of the project proposal was undertaken in line with the Zimbabwe Investment Development Authority (ZIDA) Act and the Public-Private Partnership Guidelines,” said Dr Soda.

Source: Cabinet approves PPP for bulk infrastructure development (22/04/2026)

Read more on the Masuwe Special Economic Zone development proposals on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.

No more heavy traffic across iconic Victoria Falls bridge

 THE Governments of Zambia and Zimbabwe have resolved to that no heavy trucks or train will use the iconic century old Victoria Falls Bridge which links the two countries.

President Hakainde Hichilema said the two sister nations have agreed to restrict the use of the bridge and will build an alternative route.

Mr Hichilema said during the Engineering Institution of Zambia(EIZ) conference in Livingstone, the historic bridge built in 1905 is no longer suitable to accommodate for heavy duty traffic.

“This bridge you see here, this road and rail bridge over the falls here, we have taken a decision with Zimbabwe, our partners, that we don’t want heavy traffic anymore here, it’s not a new bridge, it’s over 100 years.

“We don’t want 30 tonne trucks going through this bridge,” the President said.

He and in the alternative, there are plans to build another road and rail bridge, “a few kilometres down stream here”.

“…and divert traffic as you enter Livingstone. All the heavy traffic must be diverted from there. As we want to rehabilitate the Zambia Railways,” Mr Hichilema said.

And the head of State said Government still targets to grow Zambia’s economy to US$80million , adding that the economy has nearly doubled over the past four and a half years.

He said efforts are underway to ensure all provinces contribute significantly to the country’s gross domestic product by engaging in various economic activities.

Mr Hichilema also proposed linking the Luapula River to the Kafue River to increase power generation, in line with Government’s energy mix agenda

At the same event, Minister of Infrastructure and Urban Development Minister Charles Milupi said Zambia seeks to be a proactive and forward-looking infrastructure planning which anticipates demand driven by climate change, urbanisation and technological advancement.

(Mwebantu, Sunday, 19th April, 2026)

Source: No more heavy traffic across iconic Victoria Falls bridge (19/04/2026)

Crocodile slips into Victoria Falls hotel

 STAFF at Victoria Falls’ A’Zambezi River Lodge were jolted out of the calm of the early morning hours on Saturday by an extraordinary and wholly unexpected visitor when a Nile crocodile was discovered calmly occupying part of the hotel precincts. In a destination famed for its closeness to nature, the encounter was nonetheless startling, unfolding just as the day was beginning to stir.

The reptile, believed to have quietly made its way from the mighty Zambezi River nearby, was first spotted by alert hotel employees, whose swift response ensured the situation did not escalate. The alarm was raised immediately, setting in motion a carefully coordinated response designed to protect both people and wildlife.

The Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) moved swiftly to the scene, acting decisively to neutralise any risk while handling the animal with care and professionalism befitting the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Zimparks spokesperson Mr Luckmore Safuli confirmed the incident, providing reassurance about both the outcome and the process involved.

“The animal, identified as a Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) originating from the Zambezi River system, was safely immobilised and translocated by trained authority personnel.

The crocodile was subsequently released back into the river. No human injuries or property damage were recorded.”
According to Mr Safuli, while the sight may have startled lodge staff and guests alike, the crocodile’s appearance was not as unusual as it might seem within such a natural setting.

“The authority notes that the incident occurred within the species’ natural range and habitat. The lodge is situated in a riverine environment along the Zambezi River, which supports established crocodile populations. Terrestrial movement by crocodiles is normal behaviour and is commonly associated with basking, nesting, dispersal, or territorial activity.”

Mrs Pride Khumbula, RTG corporate affairs and quality manager, confirmed that the reptile had ventured into one of the lodge’s water features, seamlessly blending into an environment shaped to mirror the natural world around it.

“A’Zambezi River Lodge can confirm that a crocodile was sighted on the property on Friday 17 April 2026. The situation was promptly managed in close coordination with Zimparks, who responded swiftly, safely apprehended the animal from the hotel’s water feature where it had made its way into, and relocated it back into its natural habitat.”

Mrs Khumbula emphasised that the lodge’s proximity to wildlife is not accidental but intrinsic to its identity, set within a protected landscape that celebrates coexistence rather than separation.

“The hotel is uniquely located within the Zambezi National Park, where we proudly coexist with wildlife as part of a protected natural ecosystem. We are fully cognisant of our position within a designated wildlife corridor and actively support biodiversity by allowing animals to move freely within their natural habitat.

Source: Crocodile slips into Victoria Falls hotel (19/04/2026)

Econet InfraCo Secures Land For Multimillion-dollar Luxury Resort In Victoria Falls

 Econet InfraCo has announced plans to build a multimillion-dollar luxury resort in Victoria Falls. The project, to be called Vic Falls Lifestyle, will comprise 40 high-end residential villas supported by premium amenities, including restaurants, wellness centres, and sports facilities.

Econet InfraCo Chief Executive Officer Fayaz King described the development as a landmark project for Zimbabwe’s luxury tourism sector.

“These will be among the most exclusive residential properties ever developed in Zimbabwe,” said King.

“They are designed to meet the standards of top-tier international hospitality, comparable to presidential suites in leading global hotels.

“Security and privacy are central to the development’s value proposition. The gated resort will include round-the-clock security, catering to investors and visitors seeking a secure, secluded environment.”

Under the investment model, buyers will be able to acquire ownership of individual villas, on the condition that units are made available for rental for up to 11 months each year—a structure designed to balance personal use with income-generating potential.

King added that Econet founder and Group Chairman Strive Masiyiwa played a key advisory role in shaping the concept and is expected to be among the property owners.

“Land for the resort has been secured, with planning at an advanced stage, and construction is expected to commence before year-end,” said King.

Source: Econet InfraCo Secures Land For Multimillion-dollar Luxury Resort In Victoria Falls (15/04/2026)

Read more:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th April 2026) Econet InfraCo to build top-tier luxury resort in Vic Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (10th April 2026) Econet InfraCo plans luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas and private hospital.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th April 2026) The vision behind Econet InfraCo’s Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th April 2026) Econet InfraCo Secures Land For Multimillion-dollar Luxury Resort In Victoria Falls.

See also Keep Victoria Falls Wild website. 

New sunset cruise option in Vic Falls

 Bamba Victoria Falls has launched a new product on the Zambezi River with the Bamba Boat Sunset Cruise, which commenced on April 1.

The new offering is a double-decker cruise boat operating daily from Zambezi National Park. It accommodates up to 24 guests on a 2.5-hour sunset experience, including a four-course canapé menu, premium drinks and cocktails.

The boat is part of a full-day itinerary, marketed as “The Bamba Day”, combining multiple experiences across Victoria Falls. The itinerary includes a 90-minute early morning tram journey through Zambezi National Park to the Victoria Falls suspension bridge, followed by an e-bike tour with stops at the Big Tree, riverside viewpoints and the vulture feeding site.

The day concludes with the sunset cruise on the Zambezi River departing from a private jetty within the national park.

Source: New sunset cruise option in Vic Falls (14/04/2026)

Vic Falls gets major luxury accommodation boost

 ZIMBABWE’S premier tourism hub and strategic economic corridor, Victoria Falls, is set for another major accommodation upgrade after Econet Wireless Zimbabwe subsidiary, Econet InfraCo, announced progress on the development of the Victoria Falls Private Residences, a high-end project within its premium real estate portfolio.

The development comes as the Second Republic continues to prioritise infrastructure-led economic transformation under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS2), which identifies tourism, digital infrastructure and private sector investment as key pillars for accelerating economic growth, job creation and foreign currency generation.

Econet InfraCo chairman, Mr Godfrey Gomwe, said the project reflects the company’s broader strategy of unlocking high-value returns in one of the country’s most strategic destinations, while complementing Government efforts to position Victoria Falls as a global tourism and investment centre.

“Econet InfraCo is already a platform at scale. We operate a nationally integrated infrastructure footprint that is anchored along key economic corridors. We have a diversified asset base that is already deployed and performing,” he said.

“Most importantly for our investors, this large-scale physical backbone is secured by long-term contracted assets, providing us with a foundational yield.”

Mr Gomwe said Econet InfraCo should not be viewed through the narrow lens of a conventional tower operator.

“We are not a traditional ‘tower company.’ We are a platform. We are the physical layer upon which our economy will digitise,” he said.

Mr Gomwe outlined the company’s three complementary engines of value — TowerCo, which provides stable cash flows through telecommunications infrastructure; PowerCo, which is driving growth through energy optimisation and solar integration; and PropertyCo, which focuses on strategic real estate monetisation.

The investment aligns with the Government’s drive under the National Energy Policy and the Second Republic’s push for increased private sector participation in renewable energy projects, particularly as businesses increasingly integrate solar solutions into large-scale developments.

Under its PropertyCo division, Econet InfraCo is also advancing the Econet Tech City project, a phased industrial and digital ecosystem expected to evolve into a major hub for data centres, digital infrastructure and technology partnerships supporting Zimbabwe’s ambitions in artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

The project dovetails with the Government’s Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, which seeks to transform the country into a digitally enabled upper-middle-income economy through expanded ICT infrastructure, innovation hubs and digital services. “This is not speculative real estate trading; it is the deliberate, phased monetisation of high-value sites,” said Mr Gomwe.

He said the Victoria Falls Private Residences will comprise ultra-modern luxury villas designed to meet growing high-end tourism demand, featuring secure gated access, premium amenities and world-class hospitality standards. “Grand visions, however, require rigorous discipline to translate into shareholder value. At InfraCo, we believe that growth must be driven by execution discipline, not optimism. We do not chase growth for the sake of growth. We enforce a highly disciplined approach to capital allocation,” said Mr Gomwe.

The latest investment also supports the Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy, which seeks to diversify tourism products, attract premium international visitors and expand accommodation capacity in major destinations. Victoria Falls continues to attract significant public and private sector investment under the Second Republic, with infrastructure upgrades, conference tourism expansion and increased air connectivity reinforcing its position as Zimbabwe’s flagship international destination.

Source: Vic Falls gets major luxury accommodation boost (12/04/2026)

The vision behind Econet InfraCo’s Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort

 Econet InfraCo — the recently listed billion-dollar infrastructure platform company — has acquired a 100-acre site in Victoria Falls, where it plans to build an upmarket ‘Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort’.

Econet InfraCo Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort promo

The resort will consist of about 40 luxury villas, built for use by high net wealthy visitors to the city, who plan to stay for two weeks or more.

According to InfraCo, the villas will be designed to cater for every whim of a jet set clientele who expect the best. They will be supported by a club house with a wellness gym, spas, restaurants, gift shops, tennis courts and swimming pools.

The facility will have its own 10-bed private hospital and a helipad for quick transfers to the airport.

Equally important, the villas will have their own power and water supply system, with each villa connected to fibre as well as satellite internet access. Security to the facility will be provided by 24-hour guards, with additional security guards assigned to any of the  4, 5 and 6-bedroom villas as needed.

Econet InfraCo Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort promo

Explaining the vision, Econet InfraCo CEO Fayaz King, said: “We need to attract visitors who spend more time in the city if we are to generate more forex for our economy. That means we must also cater for the high net worth visitor — this is the global trend. We are using our skills in developing high-quality infrastructure to enable this development.”

King said each villa will be offered for sale as an investment to Zimbabweans, who will offer them for onward rental as part of the agreement.

“The owners will be allowed to use them for about a month a year. But they are there to be rented out for 11 months; that is the concept.”

King said designs had been completed and work is expected to start before the end of the year.

He noted that land for the development was acquired some time back, at the direction of Econet founder Strive Masiyiwa.

“The group chairman has had this vision for a long time, and sees Vic Falls as a jewel for Zimbabwe’s economic revival. He bought this land over 20 years ago but feels now is the time for us to push ahead, which is why InfraCo was created,” he said, adding that there were other projects the company was planning.

Source: The vision behind Econet InfraCo’s Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort (12/04/2026)

Read more:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th April 2026) Econet InfraCo to build top-tier luxury resort in Vic Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (10th April 2026) Econet InfraCo plans luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas and private hospital.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th April 2026) The vision behind Econet InfraCo’s Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th April 2026) Econet InfraCo Secures Land For Multimillion-dollar Luxury Resort In Victoria Falls.

See also Keep Victoria Falls Wild website. 

Mnangagwa fires CIO boss Mangwanya, names diplomat Chikawa as new spy chief

 HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday dismissed Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) director general Fulton Mangwanya, with no explanation given for the abrupt removal.

Chief cabinet secretary Martin Rushwaya announced that Paul Chikawa, Zimbabwe’s ambassador to Cuba, has been appointed as the new spy chief “with immediate effect.”

Rushwaya’s statement made no reference to Mangwanya.

Mangwanya was appointed CIO director general in January 2025, having previously served as director general of the Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks).

His dismissal comes amid a probe by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) into a US$6.8 million construction project linked to the CIO.

Investigators have conducted raids at the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), Terrestrial Holdings — the CIO’s investment arm — and at least two financial services companies.

NSSA released US$4.5 million for the Belgravia double story commercial building through Stanbic Bank into the account of Chigama Architectural Services and Project Management.

Investigators are examining claims that some funds were subsequently diverted to an asset management company and a money transfer firm for high-interest arrangements that allegedly benefited insiders. The project predated Mangwanya’s appointment, though some payments were made during his tenure.

In October last year, Mangwanya was reported to have been swindled more than R1.5 million by scammers posing as the gold dealer Scott Sakupwanya. The CIO later briefed that the incident was part of a covert operation to trap the scammers who were allegedly targeting high profile people.

The dismissal also comes as Mnangagwa, 83, is pushing through controversial constitutional amendments that would extend his second and final term by two years — from 2028 to 2030 — and replace the direct presidential election with a parliamentary vote.

Mnangagwa’s critics say the amendments are designed to stop vice president Constantino Chiwenga from succeeding him in the event of his death or incapacitation in office, with MPs instead voting to choose his successor – likely to come down to candidates’ financial muscle.

Source: Mnangagwa fires CIO boss Mangwanya, names diplomat Chikawa as new spy chief (10/04/2026)

Econet InfraCo plans luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas and private hospital

 Econet InfraCo says it will build a luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas, premium amenities and a 10 bed private hospital.

Econet InfraCo says it will develop a multimillion dollar luxury resort in Victoria Falls, adding high end residential villas and a private medical facility as it broadens its investment platform beyond core infrastructure.

The project, to be called Vic Falls Lifestyle, is planned as a gated resort of 40 luxury residential villas supported by amenities that include restaurants, wellness centers and sports facilities, the company said.

Econet InfraCo Chief Executive Officer Fayaz King said the villas are being designed for buyers who want privacy and a hotel level service experience. He described the residences as among the most exclusive properties to be developed in Zimbabwe, with finishes and services aimed at matching what top global hotels offer in their highest end rooms.

The company said the resort will include a 24 hour, 10 bed private hospital with emergency services and dental care, part of a package meant to meet the expectations of a high net worth clientele that travels with security and convenience in mind. Security and privacy are central to the plan, King said, with around the clock security inside the gated complex.

Econet InfraCo, recently listed on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange, said it has been valued at about $1 billion. The company is positioning the resort as a product for both lifestyle buyers and investors looking for rental income.

Under the model outlined by the company, buyers would own individual villas, but would be required to make them available for rental for up to 11 months each year. The structure is designed to balance occasional personal use with revenue potential, a model used in some resort markets where operators manage units as part of a single hospitality offering.

King said the concept received input from Econet founder and group chairman Strive Masiyiwa, who he described as playing an advisory role in shaping the development. King added that Masiyiwa is expected to be among the property owners. Econet InfraCo said it has already seen interest from local and diaspora Zimbabwean investors as well as international buyers, including people described as friends and associates of Masiyiwa.

The company said land has been secured, planning is at an advanced stage and construction is expected to begin before the end of the year.

Vic Falls Lifestyle would be the second major development announced by Econet InfraCo. Its flagship project, Econet Tech City, is planned as an industrial and technology hub near Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare, with the company saying it expects to host about 300 businesses on more than 800 hectares of land it already owns.

Source: Econet InfraCo plans luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas and private hospital (09/04/2026)

Read more:

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (9th April 2026) Econet InfraCo to build top-tier luxury resort in Vic Falls.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (10th April 2026) Econet InfraCo plans luxury Victoria Falls resort with 40 villas and private hospital.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (13th April 2026) The vision behind Econet InfraCo’s Vic Falls Lifestyle Resort.

Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (16th April 2026) Econet InfraCo Secures Land For Multimillion-dollar Luxury Resort In Victoria Falls.

See also Keep Victoria Falls Wild website.