Online Reporter
Michael Tome
Business Reporter
HOSPITALITY group, African Sun Limited, plans to undertake significant refurbishments of its flagship properties, including Holiday Inn Harare, Holiday Inn Bulawayo, and Elephant Hills Resort and Conference Centre in 2025.
The upgrades seek to improve guest experience, modernise facilities, and ensure that the hotels continue to meet the evolving demands of visitors.
The group indicated, in its 2024 Annual Report, that it will embark on the refurbishment project with a phased approach targeting several of its key hotels.
The first phase will focus on revamping the Holiday Inn Harare, Holiday Inn Bulawayo, and Elephant Hills Resort, while the second phase will entail the renovation of the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel.
Additionally, the company will continue with the second phase of the Marlborough Sunset Views project, comprising 55 residential stands. The project is expected to significantly boost revenue and liquidity.
To fund these refurbishments, African Sun’s board has already approved the strategic sale of several non-core assets.
This divestment plan includes the disposal of Sun Leisure Tours, Great Zimbabwe Hotel, Monomotapa Hotel, and Caribbea Bay Resort.
The company already completed the discontinuation of Sun Leisure Tours on March 31, 2024, and finalised the sale of the Great Zimbabwe Hotel, with ownership transfer effective April 1, 2025.
African Sun has pointed out that it aims to prioritise quality and guest experiences through streamlining its portfolio to focus on a smaller, more profitable selection of hotels. This strategic shift is expected to gain further momentum, positioning the company for future growth and success.
“Plans for 2025 include commencing the refurbishments of Holiday Inn Harare, Elephant Hills Resort, Troutbeck Timeshare Lodges, and the second phase of renovations at The Victoria Falls Hotel.
“The downside of these refurbishments is a reduction in the Group’s room inventory for the 2025 financial year.
“These strategic capital investments aim to enhance guest experiences and increase the portfolio’s market share.
“Additionally, the group will proceed with the second phase of the Marlborough Sunset Views residential development, targeting 55 stands. This project is anticipated to bolster revenue and liquidity,” said African Sun Chairman Mr Lloyd Mhishi in the group’s annual report.
In 2024, the group made significant strides in its refurbishment efforts, marked by the successful completion of public area renovations at Hwange Safari Lodge.
This notable progress underscores the company’s commitment to upgrading its properties and enhancing the overall guest experience.
Refurbishment of public areas at Hwange Safari Lodge is expected to not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the lodge but also provide a more welcoming and comfortable environment for guests.
African Sun chief executive Mr Laurie Ward highlighted that this development is a key part of the group’s ongoing strategy to invest in its properties and drive growth through improved quality and service.
“Our approach involves divesting non-core assets and concentrating resources on high-performing properties in prime locations. By streamlining operations and enhancing service standards, the Company aims to deliver consistent experiences that meet evolving guest expectations,” said Mr Ward.
African Sun is optimistic about the tourism sector’s recovery in 2025, driven by progress in the local market and the rebound in international travel.
This optimism is supported by the UN Tourism Organisation’s forecast of a five percent increase in international tourist arrivals, led by the full recovery of the Asia and Pacific markets and strong growth in other regions.
