(BBC World Service, 11 August 2026)
The Victoria falls,
on the border of
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The programme was broadcast in the UK on 11th August 2026 on BBC Radio 4 as part of the series 'Crossing Continents' series -
Read more on the issues highlighted in the programme on the Keep Victoria Falls Wild webiste.
GOVERNMENT and the private sector yesterday sealed a US$66,9 million Commercial Joint Venture Agreement to unlock high-value tourism development in Victoria Falls, in a major investment push expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s position in the lucrative regional and global tourism market.
The landmark agreement, signed in Harare yesterday following Cabinet’s approval of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in April 2026, marks one of Zimbabwe’s most significant tourism infrastructure investments in recent years and signals growing investor confidence in the country’s tourism sector.
The agreement brings together Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company (MOTDC) Private Limited, the development company under the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, and Victoria Seven Investments (Private) Limited, under the J.R. Goddard Consortium, to develop bulk infrastructure at Lot 1 of the 271-hectare Jafuta Estate in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone.
More than a conventional infrastructure project, the development represents the creation of a new integrated tourism precinct designed to redefine Victoria Falls’ visitor experience, while opening vast opportunities for domestic and international investors.
The US$66,9 million investment is expected to provide essential bulk infrastructure, including water and sewer reticulation, electricity distribution and telecommunications networks – the critical backbone required to unlock a pipeline of premium tourism and commercial developments.
Once completed, the serviced estate will accommodate luxury hotels, boutique lodges, villas, chalets, holiday homes, a championship golf estate, commercial and financial centres, medical facilities, a Tourism Academy and the under-construction International Multi-purpose Cricket Stadium, creating a diversified tourism ecosystem that extends Victoria Falls’ appeal beyond its iconic natural attractions.
Industry observers say the project reflects Zimbabwe’s strategic shift from destination marketing alone to destination development, where modern infrastructure becomes the catalyst for sustainable tourism investment and long-term economic growth.
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry said the landmark investment directly supports President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.
“The landmark development advances President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of an upper-middle-income society and aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 through sustainable tourism investment,” said the ministry in an update after the signing of the agreement.
Officiating at the signing ceremony on behalf of the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, Deputy Minister Honourable Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa was quoted as saying the agreement was a game-changing milestone for Zimbabwe’s tourism economy.
He described the development as a transformative investment that positions tourism as a catalyst for infrastructure development, economic growth and job creation through Public-Private Partnerships.
“The complementary investments will create an integrated tourism ecosystem that enhances Victoria Falls’ competitiveness as a premier destination, while the signing marks the realisation of a vision conceived in 2012 for the Masuwe Special Economic Zone,” reads the ministry update.
The agreement also demonstrates the Government’s growing use of Public-Private Partnerships to accelerate strategic infrastructure development, while leveraging private capital to maximise the economic value of public assets.
Through the innovative model, the Government contributes land through Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, enabling investors to channel capital into infrastructure and tourism facilities that generate long-term economic returns.
“Through Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, the Government is leveraging land equity to unlock private sector investment that will strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure and investment landscape, elevate tourist experiences, stimulate inclusive economic growth and further position Victoria Falls as a leading high-value tourism and investment destination,” said the ministry.
Beyond the immediate infrastructure works, the project is expected to trigger substantial secondary investments across hospitality, real estate, retail, transport, financial services and recreation, creating thousands of jobs and strengthening linkages with local suppliers and communities.
The development also reinforces Victoria Falls’ evolution from a destination renowned solely for its natural wonder into a globally competitive tourism, sports, conference and investment hub, capable of attracting high-spending visitors and international investors.
With premium accommodation, sporting facilities, commercial services and specialised tourism infrastructure planned within one integrated precinct, the Masuwe Special Economic Zone is set to become a flagship model of sustainable tourism development in Southern Africa.
It is expected to further enhance Zimbabwe’s standing as an investment destination and position tourism as a powerful engine for inclusive economic transformation.
President Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised that tourism should be private sector-driven, community-owned, and Government-facilitated, with strategic investments such as the Masuwe Special Economic Zone expected to generate employment, attract foreign direct investment, and accelerate the attainment of Vision 2030.
Under the joint venture agreement, MOTDC will contribute 271,5 hectares of land valued at US$25,6 million as equity in kind, while the JR Goddard Consortium will invest US$66,9 million towards infrastructure development.
The shareholding structure gives MOTDC a 39 percent stake and the consortium 61 percent, with a 25-year profit recoupment period.
Source: Victoria Falls seals milestone US$66,9m tourism development deal (05/08/2026)
July 31 (Reuters) - A newly constructed stadium in Victoria Falls has been named among the venues for next year's 50-over World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with South Africa and Namibia, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced.
Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 28th July 2026
The following is our (unofficial) record of the adopted decision text relating to the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site as discussed, amended and adopted by the World Heritage Committee at its 48th Session in Busan, South Korea on 27th July 2026. The text is as per the proposed amended text displayed on-screen during the Committee’s debate.
Amendments as suggested by the Committee members of Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania and Togo. Amendments were first proposed in a document published on 23rd July. In introducing the discussion it was disclosed that the representatives of the African World Heritage Centre and IUCN had met with the representatives of the state Parties (Zambia and Zimbabwe) on the same day to discuss the proposed amendments and resulting in the revised amendment document published on 24th. Download the amendments as submitted and published on 24th July 2026 here.
See also our previous notes on the proposed amended text under Further Information.
UNESCO will publish their official record in due course.
7B.93 the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site
Points 1, 2 and 3 adopted without amendment.
“1. Having examined Document WHC/26/48.COM/7B.Add,
2. Recalling Decisions 45 COM 7B.10 and 46 COM 7B.60 adopted at its extended 45th (Riyadh, 2023) and 46th sessions (New Delhi, 2024) respectively,
3. Welcomes the continued cooperation between the States Parties, supported by their partners, to strengthen the protection of the property through joint measures, including invasive species control, monitoring, fire management, enhanced conservation actions, and law enforcement;”
Point 4 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:
“4. Expresses concern that possible cumulative impacts from infrastructure and tourism developments within the property, its buffer zone, and wider setting where applicable continue to pose a significant threat to the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, a situation exacerbated, among other things, by the fact that the States Parties continue to receive development project proposals, and invites the States Parties to continue to provide details on any ongoing or future development projects that will be under consideration as soon as information is available.”
Point 5 adopted without amendment.
“5. Regrets the continued delay in completing and submitting the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), despite repeated requests and the recommendations of the 2022 mission, and urges again the States Parties to expedite its finalization with technical guidance from IUCN, as well as its official submission, while ensuring that its conclusions and recommendations are fully integrated into all planning, zoning, and development decision-making processes affecting the property, its buffer zone and wider setting;”
Point 6 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:
“6. Notes with regret that, at the time of producing this draft decision no update was provided regarding the letter (Ref: CLT/WHC/AFR/24/151) on the third-party concerns related to permits for two commercial tourism developments in highly sensitive zones on the Zimbabwean component of the property. Expresses its concern about the potentially irreversible impacts of these projects on the integrity and the visual attributes of the property and urgently requests the States Parties to provide updates on the above-mentioned letter and report on the monitoring and mitigation measures in place to ensure that the infrastructures do not negatively affect the OUV of the property;”
Point 7 adopted without amendment.
“7. Also notes with regret that the construction of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort Hotel proceeded without fully meeting approval conditions at the national level and following the Committee’s request to halt further activities until the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) had been submitted and reviewed, and reiterates its requests to the States Parties to implement the 2022 Reactive monitoring mission recommendation to develop a comprehensive Environmental and Social Management plan, which the States Parties indicated in their 2024 report was already being developed, ensuring that the mitigation measures put in place take into account the visual integrity and cumulative effects of the project and address its negative impacts on the property’s OUV;”
Point 8, adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:
“8. Also reiterates its request to the States Parties to ensure that any project located within the property, its buffer zone, and wider setting, where applicable with potential impacts on the OUV is subject to assessment through ESIA or HIA in conformity with the Guidance and Toolkit for Impact Assessments in a World Heritage Context and submitted for review prior to any decision;”
Point 9 adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:
“9. Expresses continued concern regarding the likely negative impact of the proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme (BGHES) on the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of the property, and further reiterates its request that the revised ESIA be in line with the above-mentioned guidance, including a rigorous assessment of alternative scenarios that minimize negative impacts on the OUV, as recommended by the 2022 Reactive monitoring mission, and be submitted to the World Heritage Centre for review, prior to taking any decision that is difficult to reverse;”
Point 10 adopted, after debate, as amended. Final approved text therefore:
"10. Appreciates the submission of the draft Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP) 2025-2030, underlines that further amendment is needed to detail the zoning system of the property to function as an effective regulatory tool, as well as the operational, regulatory, and monitoring aspects, and requests the States Parties to further revise and submit the updated version of the JIMP to the World Heritage Centre for review, prior to its validation and future implementation, by:
a) Incorporating clearly defined safeguards and thresholds to mitigate against developmental pressures for the protection of the property’s OUV, and zoning of the property, including well-prescribed limits of acceptable use and permissible activities (including tourism and development infrastructures), in line with the objectives of protecting the OUV and in line with past Committee decisions,
b) Developing finer-scale maps of the zoning system to avoid any ambiguity in its implementation,
c) Establishing enforceable visitor management mechanisms and strictly controlled areas in sensitive zones,...
d) Developing and operationalizing the research and monitoring framework, including the provision of detailed methodologies, the clear allocation of responsibilities, and the establishment of mechanisms to ensure that monitoring results effectively inform adaptive management,
e) Strengthening the consideration and management of cumulative and transboundary impacts on the OUV of the property, particularly of major developments and ongoing urban growth, including their potential effects on hydrological regimes, geomorphological aspects, and visual integrity
f) Ensuring that the JIMP is supported by adequate and sustainable financing to ensure its effective implementation, and monitoring for the long-term protection of the OUV;”
Point 11 adopted as amended
“11. Reiterates furthermore its request to the States Parties to submit a request for a boundary modification in accordance with the Operational Guidelines to set the precise boundaries of the property and its buffer zone, aligned with past Committee Decisions and the property’s Statement of OUV, and encourages the States Parties to seek further technical guidance from the World Heritage Centre and IUCN as required;”
Point 12 (now included under item 11) adopted as amended. Final approved text therefore:
“Also requests that information on the current status of all proposed development projects, reported by the States Parties, including their precise location, and scale, be submitted to the World Heritage Centre as soon as such information becomes available, with particular attention to tourism developments.”
New point 12, Adopted, following debate over ‘terminology and scope, as amended.
“12. Recommends both States Parties to invite Advisory Bodies and WHC to the site for an on-the-ground boundary verification and for guidance on outstanding matters.”
Pont 13 adopted without amendment.
“13. Finally requests the States Parties to submit to the World Heritage Centre, by 1 February 2027, an interim report including a copy of the updated JIMP, taking into consideration the comments outlined above, and by 1 December 2027, an updated report on the State of Conservation of the property and the implementation of the above, for examination by the World Heritage Committee at its 50th session.”
Further Information
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (27th July 2026) WorldHeritage Committee Discussion on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site,27th July 2026.
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th July 2026) Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to draft Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.
Keep Victoria Falls Wild, 27th July 2026
Unofficial transcript of World Heritage Committee discussion regarding State of Conservation of the Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls World Heritage Site, at the 48th session of the Committee, held at Busan, Republic of Korea, 27th July 2026, morning session.
You can watch the full session on the UNESCO YouTube channel here. (discussion on Victoria Falls starts around 3.25).
Download an audio file (mp3) of the discussion on the Victoria Falls here.
Download the amended draft decision text for the Site (pdf), as submitted to the World Heritage Centre on 24th July 2026 here. Please note that UNESCO will publish the final agreed text on their website at some point in the near future. Note that there may be minor differences between the amendments as drafted in this document and the amendments as shown on screen during the Session and as discussed by the Committee. We will publish a detailed comparison and review of the agreed decision text in due course.
Please also note that certain sections of the dialog are unclear as to the specific wordings of the Committee or Chair and this transcript should be checked against the audio/video, which has subtitled (but not always correct!) for confirmation and clarification.
Session Chaired by Mr Lee Byong-Hyun.
African World Heritage Centre Representative: Mr Muhammad Muhammad Juma.
IUCN Representative: Mizuki Murai, Senior Programme Coordinator.
World Heritage Watch Representative: Stephan Doempke.
WHC48-7B-93 Transcript of Discussion
[Chair] OK, thank you,
Excellences, dear colleagues, we will continue with 7B Nature,
[
[Chair] Err,
[
[Chair] So agreed among African group? I recognise Ambassador Faye just come back.
[
[Chair] If that's the case
I now invite
[
[Chair] OK,
[
Chair, our main issue lies in the need to address a selected few technical aspects embedded in the draft decision, and besides the language used, which we believe should be moderated, we consider that there are technical issues that we need to acknowledge.
One of the issues that we
have noted the issue of the State Parties making strides in a positive
direction. As we are gathered here we are informed that a team of experts is
conducting assessment in response to a call from the Zimbabwe National Committee
on calculation of risks undermining the critical conservation and protection in
Chair, with particular
emphasis on the Baines Restaurant and the
Chair, the state party of Zambia in their actions are a true statement to the further confirmation for the need to balance conservation and sustainable development in line with the 2015 Policy document on the sustainable development, among others.
We propose that both State
Parties continue to engage in dialogue with the World Heritage Centre and IUCN
and that they invite an Advisory Mission on the best ways of dealing with
issues surrounding
[Chair] OK, thank you. I now invite Mr Muhammad Juma Muhammad Chief of the African World Heritage Centre, and IUCN to provide their comments. You have the floor.
[African World Heritage Centre Representative] Thank you very much Mr Chair. Mr Chair, this is a joint intervention from World Heritage Centre Secretariat and IUCN. In the spirit of cooperation that the Kenya announced, and support for the State Parties, Mr Chair we are please to inform the distinguished committee members that having taking note of the proposed amendments the Secretariat and IUCN met with the State Parties of Zambia and Zimbabwe for constructive exchange and dialogue, which led to clarification and agreement on points raised. Thank you Mr Chair.
[Chair] Thank you. IUCN.
[IUCN Representative] Thank
you Mr Chair. The WHC gave a joint intervention on behalf of the Centre and
IUCN, however I would also like to acknowledge and wish to thank the State Parties
of Zambia and
[Chair] OK, thank you. As Kenyan delegation rightly pointed out we surely have amended proposal, so please upload on the screen.
Para 10, small 'a', small 'b'
- no problem, small 'c' - minor wording change, 'd', 'e', 'f'. So Para 10 - OK,
[
[Chair] OK,
[
[Chair]
[
[Chair] Thank you.
[
[Chair] OK,
[
We also appreciate that we have those two species of bird, the black eagle and the taita falcon that was mentioned in the interactive statement. But the gist of the inscription was under criterion 7 and criterion 8, kindly, thank you.
[Chair]
[
[Chair] OK for this very
specific question to State Party for one minute, maximum one minute.
[
And even the taita falcon
which has been said here, the recent studies that have been done at the WHS point
to the fact there was only one taita falcon which was seemingly - and I'm using
the word seemingly - spotted during this study. Therefore you cannot submit the
State Parties to that terminology. And this is the same terminology which was
removed when we last met in
[Chair] Thank you but despite criteria concerned, relevant criteria, ecological connectivity does not harm, so I don't understand why 'ecological connectivity' plus 'geomorphological aspect', both elements there. Czechia
[Czechia] Thank you Mr Chair, we would like to ask Secretariat or IUCN to add more information so that we may understand better the situation. Thank you very much.
[Chair] Ok, thank you. Advisory bodies, expertise, opinion?
[IUCN Representative] Thank you Mr Chair. I think in this regard the sentence refers to 'including', so it is under the understanding that these are some of the aspects to be considered. With regard specifically to the ecological connectivity indeed this property is inscribed under criterion 7 and 8, nonetheless the statement of OUV as a whole including the text under integrity, it does point towards the broader ecological aspects of this property as part of the wider ecosystems. Thank you Mr Chair.
[Chair] OK, thank you
IUCN. I now give the floor to
[
[Chair]
[
[Chair] Hmm, so I think
[
[Chair] Time is up, so I
now give the floor to
[
[Chair] Given time
constraints if
[
[Chair] OK,
[
[Chair]
[
[Chair]
[
[Chair] OK, thank you so much. So 'f', 'e', - small 'e' - adopted as amended and 'f' with original languages, whole para 10 adopted.
11 - I see no objection,
Para 12 - OK, is see none,
[Czechia] Thank you Mr Chair we would like to ask the Secretariate just technical questions regarding this new para 13 and the specific wording displayed on screen in the Kenya amendment whether the text needs to be more specified according to the operational guidelines. In this case the advisory mission would address the verification of the ground boundary and provide guidance on the outstanding issues is not defined in the amendment. Could we seek advice as to if the current wording is sufficient or whether it should be adjusted more closely reflect the terminology of the guidelines. Thank you very much.
[Chair] Thank you. IUCN.
[IUCN Representative] Thank you Mr Chair and thank you honourable delegate from Czechia. Indeed as currently drafted is it is somewhat difficult for us to be able to implement this particular decision or recommendation. The WHC and IUCN have spoken with the State Parties we would be please to field either an Advisory Mission or Reactive Monitoring Mission in discussion with the State Parties but as draft somewhat unclear as to how we would move forward. Thank you.
[Chair] So Czechia -
understood? alright
Para 13 adopted as amended
together with
OK I now declare draft decision for 48Com 7B.93 adopted as amended as a whole.
[Applause... Chair moves to close meeting, announcements...]
[Chair] Before closing the meeting I give the floor to WHW for a brief two minute statement. There will be no interpretation.
[World Heritage Watch Representative] Thank you Mr Chair. This is a statement by Keep Victoria Falls Wild supported by the World Heritage Watch network.
We are disappointed by the continued lack of progress by both the State Parties and the World Heritage Centre in addressing issues relating to tourism development pressures within and surrounding this Site, and note the proposed amended Decision text again attempts to dilute these concerns.
There
has been no progress on mitigation measures relating to the Mosi-oa-Tunya
Resort development in
The list of issues and concerns significantly includes ongoing delays to the finalisation and submission of the SEA and new Joint Management Plan, as well as a long overdue clarification of the Site's boundary and management zones.
The State Parties have been repeatedly warned over the cumulative impact of tourism developments within and surrounding the property. Without action, the World Heritage Committee are in danger of assisting and facilitating further illegitimate tourism developments.
A moratorium on all tourism developments within the Site and its surrounding 500m Buffer Zone - pending the finalisation and agreement by the Committee of the new JIMP - is urgently needed in order to prevent further tourism development within the Site.
Thank you Mr Chair
[Chair] OK, thank you, now meeting is adjourned.
See also:
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (24th July 2026) Committee Members Propose Further Last Minute Amendments to draft Decision text on Victoria Falls World Heritage Site.
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (23rd July 2026) World Heritage Committee members attempt to dilute draft Decision text regarding Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (18th July 2026) Riverside Developments at Victoria Falls Threaten World Heritage Site
Victoria Falls Bits and Blogs (15th July 2026) World Heritage Committee Turns Its Attentions to Victoria Falls.
VICTORIA FALLS is set for a major tourism and investment boost following Cabinet’s approval of a strategic partnership that will pave the way for the development of a US$66,9 million integrated Tourism Park in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
The project, which will be implemented through a partnership between the Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company (MOTDC) and JR Goddard Contracting, is expected to transform a significant portion of the Masuwe SEZ into a modern tourism hub supported by world-class infrastructure.
Work is expected to begin around the under-construction Mosi-oa-Tunya Cricket Stadium before expanding across the wider tourism precinct. The development will provide critical infrastructure such as roads, water, sewerage systems, electricity and stormwater drainage to support investment within the 272-hectare Tourism Park located inside the 1 200-hectare Masuwe SEZ.
The project is one of the flagship tourism developments being pursued under President Mnangagwa’s development agenda, which identifies tourism as one of the key drivers of economic growth alongside mining, agriculture and manufacturing.
Since 2018, the Second Republic has prioritised infrastructure development, investment promotion and public-private partnerships as part of efforts to unlock the country’s tourism potential under the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” policy.
Government has also adopted a cluster-based tourism strategy aimed at broadening the sector beyond traditional leisure travel into areas such as sports tourism, cultural and heritage tourism, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), medical and wellness tourism, and community-based tourism.
This approach is supported by the Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy (2025-2030), launched by President Mnangagwa in August last year. The policy outlines a roadmap for growing the tourism sector through infrastructure development, sustainability, digital transformation, destination competitiveness and increased private sector participation.
President Mnangagwa has repeatedly stressed that tourism should be private sector-driven, community-owned and Government-facilitated, with investments such as the Masuwe Special Economic Zone expected to create jobs, attract foreign direct investment and contribute towards the attainment of Vision 2030.
Speaking during a tour of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Cricket Oval led by Vice-President Dr Kembo Mohadi last Wednesday, MOTDC board chairperson Mr Phineas Makombe said the project marked an important step towards establishing Victoria Falls as a world-class tourism destination.
“The Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company is a State-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry with the mandate to plan, develop, manage and promote world-class tourism infrastructure in Zimbabwe’s premier tourism destination.
“In 2018, Government, through Statutory Instrument 18 of 2018, established the Masuwe Special Economic Zone to facilitate investment in tourism infrastructure and financial services over an area measuring approximately 1 200 hectares. Within this Special Economic Zone, the Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company owns and manages 272 hectares earmarked for the development of an integrated Tourism Park,” he said.
Mr Makombe said the Mosi-oa-Tunya Cricket Oval was the anchor project within the broader master plan and would help attract additional investment into the area.
“Beyond this stadium, the master plan provides for the development of internationally branded hotels and resorts, a medical and wellness precinct, a championship golf estate, commercial and recreational facilities, a Culinary and
Hospitality School to be established in partnership with UN Tourism, as well as other tourism-supporting infrastructure designed to position Victoria Falls as Africa’s leading sustainable tourism destination,” he said.
Under the joint venture agreement, MOTDC will provide 271,5 hectares of land valued at US$25,6 million as equity-in-kind, while the JR Goddard Consortium will invest US$66,9 million towards infrastructure development.
The agreement gives MOTDC a 39 percent shareholding and the consortium a 61 percent stake, with a 25-year profit recoupment period.
Planned infrastructure works include the surfacing of eight kilometres of internal roads, the upgrading of nine kilometres of gravel roads, construction of a 13-kilometre water pipeline to serve the Special Economic Zone and surrounding communities, a package water treatment plant, sewer reticulation systems, effluent reuse storage ponds and a power substation.
Mr Makombe appealed for continued Government support to protect the integrity of the Special Economic Zone and safeguard its long-term investment potential.
“While significant progress has been made, we respectfully seek continued Government support in preserving the integrity of the Masuwe Special Economic Zone. The success of this development depends on maintaining the land for its intended purpose of high-value tourism and investment projects.
“It is therefore imperative that the Special Economic Zone retains its strategic character and is protected from incompatible developments that may undermine its long-term investment potential. Cabinet has already approved our strategic partnership with JR Goddard Contracting for the development of both on-site and off-site infrastructure.”
He said the phased rollout of infrastructure would ensure future developments within the Tourism Park are supported by services built to international standards.
Strategically located within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA), the Masuwe Special Economic Zone was established to attract investment into tourism infrastructure and financial services.
The integrated Tourism Park is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s tourism offering by providing high-quality facilities needed to support the continued growth of the industry.
Mr Makombe said the project demonstrates the Second Republic’s commitment to public-private partnerships and sustainable economic development.
“This project is a practical demonstration of the Second Republic’s commitment to public-private partnerships, investment promotion and sustainable economic development. It also complements the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry’s cluster-based tourism strategy, particularly in promoting sports tourism as a key pillar for attracting international visitors, creating employment and generating foreign currency,” he said.
Once completed, the development is expected to create employment opportunities, stimulate local economic activity and further position Victoria Falls as a leading tourism and investment destination in the region.
A major attraction within the development, the Mosi-oa-Tunya Cricket Stadium, is now more than 80 percent complete and is expected to host matches during the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. The event is anticipated to boost Zimbabwe’s international profile and drive increased investment in tourism, hospitality, transport and related infrastructure.
Source: Victoria Falls set for major transformation (06/07/26)
The Zambezi Book Company have announced publication of their latest study on the history of
the
.jpg "Paradise Lost? Conservation and Development of Victoria Falls")
'Paradise Lost?' presents a detailed overview of the establishment and evolution of the protected areas surrounding the Falls from the early 1900s and the subsequent erosion and fragmentation of these areas under growing tourism development pressures, including extended detail on the period since the designation of the Falls as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 through to the modern day. The book documents increasing tourism development pressures and raises serious questions over the management of the protected area of the Falls and monitoring and oversight of international designations aimed at preserving the natural environment of the Falls for future generations.
Focussing on the area of the Victoria Falls and river corridor immediately above and below the Falls, protected since the early part of the last century, 'Paradise Lost?' details the conservation history of this area through to its designation as a World Heritage Site, and the degrading of this ecologically vulnerable area under ever increasing development pressures. The book ends with a review of the recently proposed Victoria Falls development 'masterplan' and latest UNESCO joint management plan, to be presented to the World Heritage Committee at the end of July 2026, with strong words of warning and recommendations for UNESCO regarding recent and proposed tourism developments within the protected area of the World Heritage Site.
Fully illustrated with 22 specially produced colour maps and 30 supporting colour graphics and photographs.
Read more on the website - 'Paradise Lost? Conservation and Development
of the
VICTORIA FALLS TOWN, Zimbabwe, Wednesday, July 1, 2026
The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) [Zambia] has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable heritage conservation through active community participation and empowerment during the ongoing Workshop and Field Project on Entrepreneurship around World Heritage in Africa taking place from 29 June to 2 July 2026 at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe.
Speaking through NHCC East Central Regional Director Mr. MUYUMBWA NDIYOI, who represented him at the official opening, NHCC Executive Director Mr. Kagosi Mwamulowe said the Commission remains committed to integrating heritage conservation with socio-economic development in surrounding communities.
Mr. MWAMULOWE noted that the future of World Heritage Sites depends on a coordinated approach that combines conservation, community development and sustainable economic growth.
He emphasised that the workshop represents a strategic intervention aimed at ensuring that communities living around World Heritage Sites directly benefit from the global recognition attached to such heritage resources.
“When local communities derive tangible benefits through sustainable tourism, crafts and entrepreneurship, they naturally become the most committed custodians of heritage resources,” he said.
Mr. MWAMULOWE further stated that UNESCO-supported programmes are designed to empower communities as key actors in conservation by directly linking heritage protection to job creation and sustainable livelihoods.
He added that the NHCC has embraced this approach as part of its broader agenda of promoting people-centred and sustainable conservation.
The Executive Director further stressed the need for participants to translate the knowledge acquired during the workshop into practical and sustainable business initiatives capable of generating meaningful income for local communities while safeguarding the Outstanding Universal Value of heritage sites.
The workshop has attracted key regional and international stakeholders who have collectively reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the relationship between conservation and community empowerment.
Meanwhile, the Zambezi River Authority described the initiative as a practical outcome of collaborative partnerships being implemented under the sustainable development programme for the Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site.
The Authority stated that effective collaboration has the potential to transform heritage conservation, sustainable development and community empowerment into practical interventions that directly benefit local communities.
Participants were further encouraged to develop viable entrepreneurial initiatives capable of strengthening both livelihoods and heritage site management.
Africa World Heritage Fund Executive Director Dr. ALBINO JOPELA expressed optimism that the workshop would lead to immediate and practical outcomes through the implementation of pilot projects focused on entrepreneurship, job creation and income generation.
Dr. JOPELA also commended cooperating partners for their continued commitment to heritage preservation and community development.
In a joint statement, the
Senior Programme Officer Mr. JAMES KABUYE stated that heritage should be viewed not only as a reminder of the past, but also as a strategic asset capable of driving future prosperity while maintaining authenticity.
Traditional leaders also underscored the importance of community-centred conservation approaches.
Chief MOSOKOTWANE described Mosi-oa-Tunya as a living heritage deeply connected to the identity and daily lives of local communities, stressing that communities must responsibly benefit from heritage resources they have safeguarded for generations.
Chief HWANGE of
He observed that many young people possess innovative ideas and talent but often lack the necessary support systems to transform such potential into sustainable livelihoods.
The NHCC reiterated that the outcomes of the workshop are expected to strengthen the capacity of heritage practitioners and surrounding communities in entrepreneurship, business development and fundraising while promoting innovative community-led enterprises.
As
Issued by:
Ndubi Mvula, Manager – Information and Public Relations [NHCC].
FOOTNOTE: The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Tourism charged with the responsibility of conserving Zambia’s natural and cultural heritage for research, sustainable tourism development, education and enjoyment of all the people now in the future. 1989 December 29th National Heritage Conservation Commission Act CAP 173 was enacted.
Source: National Heritage Conservation Commission Facebook Page.
Government yesterday commissioned a US$5 million water reservoir project and two refuse collection trucks in Victoria Falls, ending years of water shortages that have plagued the resort city’s Mkhosana suburb.
The project, delivered by the City of Victoria Falls using internal resources, comprises a 5-megalitres ground reservoir and a 750-kilolitre elevated tank, alongside 12 kilometres of new pipelines, upgraded pump stations at Aerodrome, and new fire hydrants.
Officiating at the commissioning event, the Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, said the upgraded infrastructure would guarantee reliable water access for 25 000 residents.
“These reservoirs will ensure improved reliability and sustainable access to safe water for an estimated population of about 25 000 residents who, for long, had endured persistent water shortages due to inadequate storage capacity and rapid population growth,” said the minister.
The reservoirs form the first phase of the city’s broader US$18 million multi-phase Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme.
The shift to a gravity-fed system means consistent water pressure across Mkhosana, ending the distress of direct pumping systems that failed during power outages. Residents who spoke to Zimpapers confirmed the transformation.
“For years, we woke up before dawn to fetch water. Now the taps run day and night. It feels like we are finally living in a real city,” said Mrs Nomsa Ndlovu from Mkhosana.
Another resident, Mr Tendai Sibanda, said the project had brought dignity back to the community.
“We used to go for days without water. You could not plan your day. Now we have an adequate supply, and we are grateful to the council and Government for listening to our cries,” he said.
Minister Garwe said the investment aligns with the National Development Strategy (NDS2) and President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 of an empowered upper-middle-income economy.
“It’s our desire that all local authorities across the country emulate such efforts. I want to assert that Victoria Falls yakhiwa ngabahlali bayo,” he said.
Alongside the water infrastructure, the city commissioned two refuse trucks, a 15-cubic-metre unit procured by council and an 18-cubic-metre unit donated by African Sun Limited as part of its corporate social responsibility.
“This gesture is a shining example of the sound partnerships that can be forged between local authorities and the private sector for the benefit of our communities,” Minister Garwe said.
Victoria Falls Town Clerk Mr Ronnie Dube said the project had catapulted the city above national minimum service delivery standards.
“We have achieved 100 percent water coverage, which is above the 2026 target of 90 percent. For too long, the residents of our beloved city, particularly here in Mkhosana, have endured the heavy burden of water scarcity. Today, we turn that page,” said Mr Dube.
He said the city had also partnered with Eagle Heights, whose purchase of a stand directly funded the reservoirs.
The reservoirs now serve 3,696 households in Mkhosana, with capacity to support future growth as the tourism hub continues to expand.
Council has indicated it requires timely devolution fund support to sustain momentum on remaining projects, including road tarring, storm drains, and construction of Mosi 2 High School.
Source: US$5 million project ends Victoria Falls water woes (07/05/2026)
