Lilshira
Khula Development launches in Victoria Falls, boosting tourism and conference capacity
Zimbabwe has started the US$260 million Khula Development in Victoria Falls, with construction kicking off on 6 November 2026. The mixed‑use project targets new hotel rooms, conference facilities and urban infrastructure, affecting tourists, business event planners and local service providers.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A US$260 million mixed‑use development adds hotel, conference and civic facilities
- Timing
- Construction began on 6 Nov 2026 with an eight‑year completion horizon
- Who is affected
- Tourists, business travellers and local enterprises in Victoria Falls
The details
- Announced by
- Zimbabwe’s Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe
- Takes effect
- 6 November 2026
- New rule
- The Khula Development will transform the former City Council offices and Rest Camp site into a commercial and civic precinct with a new Civic Centre, hotel accommodation, shopping mall, conference venues and upgraded public spaces.
Project Overview
The initiative is a public‑private partnership between the City of Victoria Falls and Cardinal Corporation, operating through Khula Developments under a hybrid Build‑Operate‑Transfer model. It combines hospitality, retail, conference and municipal functions in a single precinct.
- Proposed hotel capacity ranges from 700 to 780 rooms, pending final confirmation
- Includes a new Civic Centre, shopping mall, modern parking and a municipal administration complex
Timeline and Implementation
Groundbreaking took place on 6 Nov 2026, marking the start of an eight‑year construction programme. The Civic Centre is slated for completion within 18‑24 months, while the broader precinct will be delivered in phases over the full period.
- Eight‑year overall schedule, with key facilities phased in
- Civic Centre expected finished by mid‑2028
Expected Impact
Project representatives estimate the development could generate between 2,000 and 4,000 jobs across construction, hospitality, retail and support services. It also aims to position Victoria Falls as a regional hub for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) and to support upcoming events such as the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
- Targeting regional conferences and COMESA business forums
- Community programme includes two classroom blocks at Mosi‑oa‑Tunya 2 High School
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing leisure bookings remain valid; new hotel rooms may become available as phases open
- Business travellers can anticipate additional conference venues within the next two years
- Visitors should monitor the development’s progress for potential changes to local transport routes
Cost and documents
- No new entry fees or visa requirements are introduced by the development
- Travel insurance costs remain unchanged; no additional documentation is required
What you need to do
- Travel agents and tour operators should update inventory to include upcoming hotel capacity
- Event planners may want to contact the future conference facilities once the 18‑month milestone approaches
- Local businesses should watch for procurement opportunities announced by Khula Developments
Who this affects
-
Leisure tourists visiting Victoria Falls
The development adds new accommodation and retail options in the city centre
-
Business conference organizers
New conference facilities are planned to host regional meetings and trade events
-
Local contractors and service providers
Construction and ongoing operations will create procurement and employment opportunities
-
Students at Mosi‑oa‑Tunya 2 High School
Cardinal Corporation will build two classroom blocks as part of its community programme
Frequently asked questions
When does construction of the Khula Development start?
Construction began with a groundbreaking ceremony on 6 November 2026, marking the official start of the project.
How many hotel rooms will the Khula Development provide?
Reports indicate a proposed hotel capacity of between 700 and 780 rooms, though the final number awaits confirmation from the developers.
What new facilities are included in the Khula Development?
The project will deliver a new Civic Centre, hotel accommodation, a shopping mall, conference venues, office space and upgraded public areas.
How long will the Khula Development take to complete?
The overall programme is expected to last about eight years, with the Civic Centre targeted for completion within 18‑24 months.
Will the Khula Development affect visa or entry requirements for Zimbabwe?
No changes to visa or entry requirements are mentioned; the development focuses on infrastructure and does not alter immigration rules.
