The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has welcomed Cabinet’s approval of the Lot 1 Jafuta Estate Development project in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone, describing the decision as a major step toward strengthening Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure and investment landscape.

The project, located in Victoria Falls, is expected to anchor large-scale tourism and financial services development within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone, positioning the resort city as a high-value international destination.

In a statement, the Ministry said the approval marked the realisation of a long-standing national vision first conceived more than a decade ago.

“The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry welcomes Cabinet’s approval of the Lot 1 Jafuta Estate Development project in the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism in Victoria Falls, a defining milestone in advancing Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure and investment landscape,” the Ministry said.

Authorities noted that the Masuwe Special Economic Zone concept was envisioned in 2012 as part of efforts to expand tourism infrastructure beyond existing facilities in Victoria Falls.

“Envisioned in 2012, this landmark project has now come to fruition. With the Masuwe Special Economic Zone for Tourism established in 2012, today marks the delivery of a long-awaited national vision,” the statement read.

The government, through its development arm, the Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company, will contribute land equity to unlock private sector investment into the project.

“Through its development arm, Mosi-oa-Tunya Development Company, the Ministry is proud to contribute land equity, demonstrating Government’s deliberate approach to unlocking private sector investment, accelerating destination development and delivering lasting national value,” the Ministry said.

The Jafuta Estate development forms part of the broader Masuwe Special Economic Zone initiative being coordinated with the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), which seeks to attract foreign and domestic investors into strategic sectors.

According to project details, the development will include construction of hotels, villas, chalets and lodges, a commercial centre, shopping mall and holiday homes alongside major supporting infrastructure.

Government said the investment would also strengthen tourism-linked services through the establishment of medical facilities, a golf estate and a tourism academy aimed at developing skills within the hospitality industry.

“This transformative development will strengthen critical infrastructure including the International Multi-purpose Cricket Stadium which is under construction, medical facilities, a golf estate, hotels, villas, chalets, lodges, a commercial centre, holiday homes, a financial district and a tourism academy positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive, sustainable and high-value tourism destination,” the Ministry said.

Authorities added that the project is expected to enhance visitor experiences while stimulating economic growth through investment inflows, employment creation and increased tourism activity in Victoria Falls.

“It will elevate tourist experiences, stimulate economic growth and contribute meaningfully to national development priorities,” the Ministry said.

The Masuwe Special Economic Zone is designed to complement Victoria Falls’ status as Zimbabwe’s premier tourism destination, expanding accommodation capacity and creating an integrated tourism, leisure and financial services hub capable of attracting international investors and visitors.