Story by Tichaona Kurewa
A new modern hospital is under construction in Victoria Falls in a development set to enhance medical tourism and restore airline confidence.
The cutting-edge facility, being developed through the Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust (Eagle REIT), is expected to improve healthcare access for residents while attracting international medical tourists to Zimbabwe’s tourism capital.
This strategic investment underlines a commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, reinforcing Victoria Falls’ position as a vibrant and diversified destination within the UNESCO Wetland City.
The development emphasises sustainable, inclusive growth, promising a vibrant future for the UNESCO Wetland City.
“Eagle REIT is developing a premium hospital facility here in Victoria Falls. We are starting with 36 beds, with plans to scale up to meet an estimated market need of 108 beds. The facility will offer world-class services, including surgical theatres and specialist care,” Fidelity Asset Management’s managing director, Mr Bevin Ngara noted.
The impact of this initiative goes far beyond healthcare.
“This hospital will boost the capacity of Victoria Falls International Airport, paving the way for wide-bodied aircraft, crucial for medical emergencies. It will also attract more international travellers, stimulate the local economy, create jobs, and bring in foreign currency. We have partnered with HealthShare from South Africa, known for establishing similar facilities across the continent. Eagle REIT will own the infrastructure, while HealthShare will operate the hospital,” Mr Ngara said.
City officials have welcomed the project.
“Beyond direct medical benefits, this development promotes cultural exchange, competitive pricing for procedures, and a unique opportunity for patients to combine treatment with tourism. It will enhance investor confidence, attract more airlines, and spur growth across various sectors of our economy,” City of Victoria Falls’ Councillor Tonderai Mutasa said.
Victoria Falls continues to position itself as a multi-faceted destination of choice, with growing investment in tourism-supporting infrastructure, including sports and medical tourism.
Medical tourism, also known as health tourism or global healthcare, involves travelling across borders for medical care.
This growing global trend is driven by factors such as affordability, shorter waiting periods, access to advanced procedures, and the added appeal of combining healthcare with vacation experiences.
