On Wednesday 8th December, the Palm River Hotel was officially unveiled by Guest of Honour, the President of Zimbabwe, His Excellency, E.D Mnangagwa.
The President and distinguished guests were welcomed onto the new property during a ceremonial ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling beneath the hotel’s iconic Victoria Falls Bridge replica.
Following the plaque unveiling, CEO, Jim Brown, guided the president on a tour of the new facility, showcasing various room varieties including the Presidential Suite which overlooks the mighty Zambezi River.
After the tour, the President joined key speakers to address guests in attendance. Speakers included the Minister of State for Matabeleland North, Minister of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the President of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe and investment partners, Old Mutual Zimbabwe, the Public Service Pension Fund and CEO, Jim Brown.
During his address, the President commended the achievement of completion of the new hotel, having visited the site less than two years prior when construction had only just commenced. The President highlighted the determination, commitment, and speedy development that had taken place during this time, even in the midst of an ongoing pandemic.
To conclude the day’s events, and to thank the President for his attendance as Guest of Honour, Jim presented His Excellency with two gifts; a locally crafted leather briefcase and recipe book, by a local chef, Sarah Lilford.
Earlier the same day, the President also attended the official opening ceremonies of two other properties in Victoria Falls: Nkosi Guest Lodge and Zambezi Boutique Hotel. Together the three new properties will positively contribute to the growth and development of the vibrant tourist destination of Victoria Falls.
