Zimbabwe Accelerates Tourism Infrastructure Expansion Across Multiple Provinces
Zimbabwe is advancing an ambitious programme of tourism infrastructure development, with multiple hotel projects, leisure facilities, and hospitality upgrades progressing across the country. The update, delivered during a recent Cabinet meeting, outlines significant momentum in the nation’s efforts to expand accommodation capacity and enhance visitor experiences throughout key provinces.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi, who was recognised as the Overall Best Performing Cabinet Minister of 2025 at a ceremony presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, presented the progress report highlighting achievements under her ministry’s oversight.
Among the most advanced projects is the Masvingo Central Business District Hotel in Masvingo Province, which has reached completion and is expected to commence operations by mid-year. This development will add valuable accommodation inventory in a province that holds significant historical and cultural attractions for visitors exploring Zimbabwe’s heritage offerings.
In the southern border region, the Bridge Hotel in Beitbridge District has reached approximately eighty-five percent completion, with roofing works currently underway. Given Beitbridge’s strategic position as a major gateway between Zimbabwe and South Africa, this property will serve an important function for cross-border travellers and commercial visitors transiting through this busy corridor.
The Midlands Province is witnessing the development of Prevail International Lodges in Mberengwa District, a project comprising ten four-bedroom units and ten one-bedroom units. Internal finishing work is progressing well, suggesting the property will soon be ready to welcome guests seeking accommodation in this central region of the country.
Matabeleland North Province features prominently in the infrastructure expansion, with several significant projects advancing simultaneously. A cricket stadium in Hwange District has reached eighty-five percent completion of its media centres, while the pavilion stands at fifty percent and pitch maintenance continues. This facility will enhance Zimbabwe’s capacity to host sporting events and attract sports tourism.
Also in Hwange, the Park Inn Hotel project remains on schedule with ninety-eight percent of bulk earthworks completed, while refurbishment of the Kingdom Hotel has reached twenty-five percent progress. These developments will strengthen accommodation options near one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations, Hwange National Park, which draws visitors seeking exceptional safari experiences.
The capital city is experiencing notable hospitality development activity. The Sky Plaza Hotel in Harare Metropolitan Province is advancing smoothly, with the basement, deck, and ground floor completed and the entertainment centre having reached the third floor. Additionally, the AATC Hotel in Harare has achieved approximately seventy percent completion while maintaining its projected schedule.
Rural tourism is receiving attention through the Rural Tourism Independence Rondavel project in Matobo District, where three traditional rondavel structures are nearing completion of their superstructure work. This initiative, currently at seventy percent overall progress, demonstrates Zimbabwe’s commitment to developing tourism offerings that showcase authentic cultural experiences beyond urban centres.
Supporting infrastructure is also receiving investment, with beautification and greening initiatives progressing at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and the Trabablas Interchange in Harare. These improvements to arrival points and transport corridors contribute to positive first impressions for international visitors.
For African travel professionals, Zimbabwe’s infrastructure expansion signals growing opportunities to include the destination in regional itineraries. The diversification of accommodation across multiple provinces enables more comprehensive touring options, from wildlife safaris in Hwange to cultural experiences in Masvingo and business travel in Harare. As these projects reach completion throughout 2026 and beyond, Zimbabwe’s capacity to accommodate increasing visitor numbers will strengthen considerably.
Originally Published at travelnews.africa
