Story by Yolanda Moyo
A US$30 million redevelopment of the former Kingdom Hotel in Victoria Falls is set to boost Zimbabwe’s luxury tourism sector, with international investors backing one of the country’s most recognisable hospitality landmarks.
After more than three years of closure, construction is underway on the property, which is being transformed by Hyatt and Albwardy Investments into Grand Hyatt Victoria Falls, The Kingdom.
According to a statement released last week, the hotel will reopen in late 2027 with upgraded accommodation, conference facilities and premium leisure amenities while incorporating the cultural heritage of Victoria Falls.
The redevelopment is expected to inject new life into the local tourism economy, with businesses that relied on the hotel anticipating increased visitor numbers.
Curio seller Tachiona Ndebele said the hotel’s closure had affected many small businesses.
“When the Kingdom closed, business became difficult because many tourists stayed there and would come to buy our crafts. Seeing construction again gives us hope that more visitors will return, and that means more income for families like ours.”
Tour guide Kennedy Chimuti said the return of an internationally recognised hotel brand would benefit the wider tourism value chain.
“Before the hotel closed, it generated a steady flow of business for tour guides. Guests would book game drives, helicopter flights, sunset cruises and guided tours almost every day. When it shut down, that business declined significantly. With an international brand like Grand Hyatt coming in, we expect more high-value visitors, longer stays and more bookings, which will benefit guides, transport operators and many other tourism businesses.”
Tourism expert Mr Clement Mukwasi said the investment reflects growing international confidence in Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
“This investment goes beyond reopening a hotel. It demonstrates confidence in Zimbabwe’s tourism economy at a time when global hotel brands are becoming more selective about where they invest. A development of this scale strengthens Victoria Falls’ competitiveness as a premium destination, creates opportunities across the tourism value chain and gives confidence to other investors considering projects in Zimbabwe.”
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Honourable Barbara Rwodzi said attracting internationally recognised hotel brands supports Zimbabwe’s strategy of positioning Victoria Falls as a premier destination for luxury and business tourism.
“The presence of globally recognised brands such as Grand Hyatt inspires confidence among international travellers because they are familiar with the quality and standards offered. We are delighted that such reputable investors are choosing Zimbabwe. This project will not only boost tourism confidence but also help address accommodation shortages during major events in Victoria Falls, allowing more visitors to stay within Zimbabwe and contribute directly to our economy.”
The redevelopment forms part of a growing pipeline of luxury hospitality projects in Victoria Falls, reinforcing the resort city’s emergence as one of Africa’s leading premium tourism and conference destinations.
