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Tourism

Victoria Falls Courts International Investment to Address Critical Shortage of Hotel Beds and Develop World-Class Infrastructure

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The city of Victoria Falls is actively seeking international investment to address a critical shortage of 2,200 hotel beds and develop world-class infrastructure, with the aim of transforming the resort city into a premier global destination. The drive is led by the increasing domestic and international arrivals, which underscores a unified vision to harness the growing tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. A high-level delegation from Qatar was recently hosted in the city, with the engagement being a direct pitch for substantial foreign direct investment in the hospitality and ancillary sectors.

Key Takeaways:

  • Victoria Falls has a critical shortage of 2,200 hotel beds to cater to increasing tourist arrivals.
  • The city has vast investment opportunities and immense potential in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
  • Key infrastructure gaps include aging infrastructure, basic care infrastructure, and enhanced air connectivity.
  • Land is available for development, with a growing niche in sports tourism, including a cricket stadium under construction.
  • A comprehensive national context was provided by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, positioning Victoria Falls as the catalyst for a wider tourism renaissance across Zimbabwe.
  • The Government's commitment to offering land for development was reaffirmed, with 260 hectares of prime, serviced land earmarked for a multi-faceted tourism development.
  • A purpose-built conference centre is proposed to capitalise on the successful MICE track record, with a capacity to accommodate 10,000 people.
  • The development of a financial corridor, commercial corridor, and accommodation options, including chalets, lodges, and hotels, is planned on the serviced land.
  • Investment in infrastructure is seen as the key to unlocking Zimbabwe's diverse tourism portfolio, including the Eastern Highlands, Great Zimbabwe Monument, Lake Kariba, and Mana Pools.

Statistics:

  • 2,000 hotel beds are needed in Victoria Falls to cater to increasing tourist arrivals. (Source: Town Clerk Ronnie Dube)
  • The city is running short of airlines coming through, with a need for enhanced air connectivity. (Source: Town Clerk Ronnie Dube)
  • There are opportunities for 260 hectares of prime, serviced land for a multi-faceted tourism development. (Source: Minister Barbara Rwodzi)
  • A purpose-built conference centre is proposed to accommodate 10,000 people. (Source: Minister Barbara Rwodzi)
  • 3,000 internationals attended the recent Ramsar event held in Victoria Falls. (Source: Minister Barbara Rwodzi)

Sources:

  • "Victoria Falls City Council seeks investors for a cash splash on tourism infrastructure." Article by Business Times (date not provided)
  • Interview with Town Clerk Ronnie Dube
  • Interview with Minister Barbara Rwodzi

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