Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
RAINBOW Tourism Group (RTG) has invested US$1 million in refurbishments across three of its properties between January and February this year, in a move aimed at enhancing guest experience and modernising its hospitality facilities.
The properties that underwent upgrades are the New Ambassador Hotel in Harare, A’Zambezi River Lodge and the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel.
In a trading update for the first quarter ended March 31, the hospitality group said the refurbishment works were part of its broader strategy to maintain service excellence and competitiveness in key tourism markets.
“At the New Ambassador Hotel in Harare, the guest rooms underwent a comprehensive refurbishment, including the full replacement of furniture and fittings, as well as the upgrading of bathrooms with contemporary fixtures and enhanced amenities, aimed at delivering a refreshed and modern guest experience,” said the Group.
At the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel, RTG finalised the remaining 50 percent of room upgrades, completing the full refurbishment of the hotel.
The A’Zambezi River Lodge also saw significant enhancements during the review period.
“The total investment for these refurbishments was US$1 million,” the Group said.
Despite temporary disruptions due to the ongoing renovations, RTG reported steady operational performance.
Hotel occupancy for the quarter closed at 48 percent, mirroring levels recorded in the same period last year.
Revenue for the period rose by two percent to US$8.7 million, compared to US$8.5 million recorded in the first quarter of 2024.
“The revenue growth was driven by an increase in conference volumes, particularly in city hotels, underscoring robust demand for meetings and events. Notably, this performance was achieved despite refurbishment-related disruptions at three hotels; the New Ambassador Hotel, A’Zambezi River Lodge and Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel,” the company said.
RTG noted that it is strategically positioned to benefit from the sustained recovery of the tourism sector, particularly in the Victoria Falls market, and the continued growth in conferencing activity within urban centres.
The Group’s hospitality portfolio was recently strengthened through the acquisition of Montclair Resort and Conference Centre in the Eastern Highlands, broadening its market footprint.
Looking ahead, RTG remains upbeat about its outlook for the year.
“The Group remains optimistic about its performance for the year 2025. This positive outlook is underpinned by a diversified hospitality offering and ongoing domestic and regional expansion initiatives,” it said.
