LEVA Hotels to transform Harare Chester House into hotel

Dubai-headquartered LEVA Hotels has signed an agreement with Revitus Property Opportunities Real Estate Investment Trust (Revitus REIT), managed by CBZ Asset Management (Pvt) Ltd, to transform the landmark Chester House at 88 Speke Avenue in Harare, Zimbabwe, into a 3-star upscale hotel under the EKONO by LEVA brand.

 

This milestone marks LEVA Hotels’ debut in Southern Africa, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to expand into high-potential markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. For Revitus Property Fund, it also represents the beginning of a strategy to revitalise and repurpose its property portfolio, a vision that has been central since the REIT’s listing on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange in December 2023.

 

Iconic Chester House

Located in Harare’s central business district, Chester House is one of the city’s most recognised and historic commercial buildings. Once transformed into EKONO by LEVA @ Chester House, the 117 keys property will feature contemporary guest rooms, stylish social spaces and curated dining options designed to appeal to both business and leisure travellers.

 

The redevelopment reflects a shared vision between LEVA Hotels and Revitus REIT to enhance Harare’s hospitality and tourism landscape while preserving the building’s heritage and legacy.

 

Why Southern Africa

Southern Africa has emerged as one of the fastest-growing regions for tourism and business travel, supported by increasing connectivity, natural attractions and vibrant capital cities. Zimbabwe, in particular, is positioning itself as a hub for both regional and international visitors, driven by a renewed focus on tourism development and investment.

 

For LEVA Hotels, entering Zimbabwe underscores its strategy of bringing Dubai’s hospitality expertise to markets where demand for modern, affordable, and design-led accommodation is accelerating. The launch of EKONO by LEVA @ Chester House strengthens the group’s visibility in a region with long-term growth potential, and serves as a gateway to future opportunities across Southern Africa.

 

Breathing new life 

Speaking about the partnership JS Anand, Founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels, said : “Chester House holds an iconic place in Harare’s history, and transforming it into EKONO by LEVA will breathe new life into the city’s hospitality scene. This project will connect Dubai’s expertise in design-led, affordable upscale hotels with Africa’s growing tourism and business markets, while adding lasting value to the local community and economy."

 

Tendai Muzadzi, the Managing Direct of CBZ Asset Management and Fund Manager for Revitus REIT, commented: “Our partnership with LEVA Hotels is a strategic move to unlock new value from Chester House and together, we aim to deliver a product that meets global hospitality standards while resonating with Zimbabwe’s dynamic market.”

 

The partnership was officially announced at ZimReal – Zimbabwe’s Property Investment Forum in Harare, by Agatha Dzenga, Projects Development & Operations Manager – Bay Harbour International, who highlighted the significance of the project during her address at the forum. - TradeArabia News Service