mbulelo smpofu
Patrick Chitumba, patrick.chitumba@chronicle.co.zw
A NEW US$1,7 million hotel has opened in Shurugwi, in the Midlands, in a development expected to boost tourism and contribute to the province’s economic growth.
Scenic Hotel, owned by businessman Mr Moses Zuva, was commissioned by Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Owen Ncube, with the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) leader, Bishop Dr Nehemiah Mutendi, in attendance.
Minister Ncube hailed the hotel as a significant milestone in the province’s development journey, aligning with the national Vision 2030 goals.
“It is with profound gratitude that I address you on this auspicious occasion of the official opening of Scenic Hotel in Shurugwi, a town renowned for its scenic views, rich gold deposits and enterprising community and which, now boasts this modern tourism facility,” he said.
Minister Ncube noted that with its abundant resources and strategic location, Shurugwi is poised to become a key player in the country’s tourism sector, driving both local and national economic growth.
He commended the Zuva family’s initiative, stating that it aligns with the Second Republic’s philosophy of leveraging private sector investment for socio-economic transformation.
“This development reflects the Second Republic’s commitment to creating jobs, fostering economic growth and providing a conducive environment for investment. The hotel’s establishment is a testament to our resilience, even under the burden of illegal economic sanctions imposed by Western nations,” he said.
He highlighted the Midlands Province’s impressive contributions to the national economy, noting that tourism was the second-largest GDP contributor last year, alongside mining, agriculture and construction.
The tourism sector recorded remarkable growth in 2024, with Zimbabwe experiencing increased domestic, regional and international visitors. The number of tourist arrivals is projected to grow by an average of 13 percent annually between 2024 and 2028.
Minister Ncube urged tourism players in the province to capitalise on this growth by expanding existing facilities and developing new projects. He also encouraged them to incorporate the country’s cultural heritage, including traditional dishes and national attire, echoing efforts championed by First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, the nation’s health, wildlife and tourism ambassador.
“The Midlands Province heartily applauds the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa’s efforts that have stimulated immense enthusiasm and growth in cultural and gastronomy tourism in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Ncube.
The Scenic Hotel, Minister Ncube revealed, features 16 rooms, a 60-person conference room, a 40-person boardroom, a bar, a laundry room and a staff canteen. Construction began in August 2023, and the facility now contributes to the Midlands Province’s room capacity, which exceeds 800 rooms.
“This hotel will enhance the tourism value chain by creating linkages with local communities and businesses in arts, agriculture, transport and wildlife management. I commend Mr Zuva for creating employment for 15 workers here and an additional 186 across his other ventures in mining, petroleum and education,” he said.
Minister Ncube applauded the Second Republic’s focus on infrastructure development, emphasising its role in achieving an empowered upper-middle-income society by 2030.
“I wish to assure you that the attainment of a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society earlier than 2030 is realistic and achievable under the astute leadership of President Mnangagwa,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr Zuva expressed gratitude for the opportunities available to local entrepreneurs.
“The establishment of Scenic Hotel demonstrates that local people can succeed across all sectors of the economy. We are proud to contribute to Shurugwi’s development and look forward to fostering partnerships that promote growth,” he said.
The Scenic Hotel joins a growing list of tourism facilities in the Midlands Province, including Fairmile Hotel, Village Lodge in Gweru, Pote Hotel in Zvishavane and kwaMahla Resort in Shurugwi.
