Online Reporter
Judith Phiri
HWANGE Local Board (HLB) is courting investors to develop an upmarket hotel and lodge on prime land within the town’s Baobab Commercial Centre as part of efforts to elevate the mining town into a premier tourism destination.
The local authority on Friday conducted a site visit for potential investors. The hotel stand is 2,25 hectares while the lodge one is 1,96 hectares. Both are strategically located on an elevated terrain overlooking the planned Civic Centre, with direct access from the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Highway, a vital corridor for regional and international tourists.
Traditionally known for coal mining, Hwange is rapidly emerging as one of the country’s fastest-growing towns, buoyed by major investments in mining and energy projects.
HLB town secretary Mr Ndumiso Mdlalose said this growth presents a unique opportunity to develop high-quality accommodation and tap into the tourism sector.
“Despite Hwange’s proximity to iconic tourist destinations like Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls, the town has only one two-star hotel and nine unrated guest houses,” he said.
Mr Mdlalose said the shortfall is evident, with more residents applying for zoning changes to convert their homes into guest lodges.
HLB has since invited expressions of interest for the purchase of the stands in line with Section 152 of the Urban Councils Act (Chapter 29:15), targeting reputable, legally registered investors in the hospitality sector.
“HLB is proud to present an exclusive opportunity to visionary investors. These parcels offer sweeping scenic views and are ideally situated to meet the rising demand for luxury hospitality in Hwange,” said Mr Mdlalose.
He said Hwange is more than a transit town, but a destination in its own right, offering educational and cultural tourism experiences such as the Kamandama Mine Disaster Memorial, Nambya Museum, Bumbusi and Shangano ruins and the country’s largest thermal power station.
The town also boasts unique attractions like 19th-century railway wagons on public display and is just 30 kilometres from the Zambezi River’s Hwange Angling and Boating Club, a renowned fishing and leisure destination.
Mr Mdlalose said in terms of educational tourism, the town welcomes over 20 schools annually, blending enrichment and leisure.
“There is strong local patronage for hospitality ventures. Additionally, the influx of domestic and international business travellers linked to mining and energy guarantees a steady stream of visitors year-round,” he said.
Mr Mdlalose said the local authority expects the successful investors to complete construction within five years, with a high return on investment anticipated due to high demand and limited supply.
“This is more than a property deal, it’s an investment in a district and province poised for extraordinary growth. We stand ready to support committed investors in shaping Hwange’s future as a hub where tourism, culture and commerce converge,” he said.
