ECONET InfraCo has announced the development of a multimillion-dollar luxury resort in Victoria Falls as part of the billion-dollar infrastructure platform’s broader strategy to expand into high-end tourism infrastructure.
The project, which will be called Vic Falls Lifestyle, will comprise 40 luxury residential villas supported by premium amenities, including restaurants, wellness centres and sports facilities.
Econet InfraCo’s chief executive Fayaz King yesterday said the project was a landmark development for the country’s luxury tourism sector.
“These will be among the most exclusive residential properties ever developed in Zimbabwe. They are designed to meet the standards of top-tier international hospitality, comparable to presidential suites in leading global hotels,” King said in a statement.
The development positions Victoria Falls as a destination for affluent global travellers seeking privacy, exclusivity, and integrated services.
Recently listed on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange with a valuation of approximately US$1 billion, Econet InfraCo said the resort would feature a 24-hour, 10-bed private hospital, equipped with emergency services and dental care – an offering designed to meet the expectations of a high-net-worth clientele.
“Security and privacy are central to the development’s value proposition. The gated resort will include round-the-clock security, catering to investors and visitors seeking a secure, secluded environment,” King said.
Under the investment model, buyers would be able to acquire ownership of individual villas, with the condition that units are made available for rental for up to 11 months annually – a structure intended to balance personal use with income-generating potential.
“Victoria Falls requires this calibre of development to attract visitors who not only spend, but also invest in the country,” King said.
He added that Econet founder and group chairman Strive Masiyiwa played a key advisory role in shaping the concept and was expected to be among the property owners.
According to the company, the project had already generated interest from both local and diaspora Zimbabwean investors, as well as international buyers – including Masiyiwa’s close friends and associates.
“Land for the resort has been secured, with planning at an advanced stage, and construction is expected to commence before year-end,” said King.
The Victoria Falls project is Econet InfraCo’s second major development initiative.
Its flagship project, Econet Tech City, is an industrial and technology hub to be built near Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare, and is expected to host approximately 300 businesses on over 800 hectares of land, which the company already owns.