Afreximbank trade centre nears completion
STAFF WRITER
The Cairo head-quartered African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank)’s landmark trade centre in Harare, a project set to transform Zimbabwe’s economic landscape, is nearing completion.
Business Times has learnt that the facility is expected to welcome its first tenants in September this year.
More than just a commercial real estate venture, the facility is designed as a fully integrated trade and investment hub, aligning with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) vision. The development incorporates trade facilitation, financial services, and cutting-edge infrastructure to bolster regional commerce.
Spanning approximately 31,256 square meters, facility features Grade A office spaces, a state-of-the-art exhibition and conference center, a world-class hospitality facility, and a technology incubation hub. The centre is poised to attract multinational corporations, financial institutions, technology firms, and trade organizations seeking a strategic foothold in Africa.
Integrated Properties, a triple ISO-certified (SHEQ) real estate consultancy firm in Zimbabwe, has been appointed as the facility’s property manager. The firm said there is overwhelming market interest in the facility’s premium office and retail spaces.
“As the appointed letting managers, we have begun accepting tenant applications in preparation for the September occupancy. The primary target tenants are trade-related organizations. The building will offer over 10 000 of lettable office space,” Integrated Properties said.
Originally budgeted at US$80 million, the total cost of the facility has risen to US$100 million, as Afreximbank commits an additional US$20m to enhance the facility and its surrounding infrastructure, including road networks.
Integrated Properties has adopted a rigorous tenant selection strategy to ensure the facility houses businesses that align with its broader economic vision. The firm is actively engaging potential tenants, including multinational banks, global trading firms, diplomatic institutions, and regional development organizations.
“Our approach goes beyond conventional leasing. We are engineering a cohesive commercial ecosystem where enterprises from diverse sectors can collaborate and drive economic growth. Prospective tenants must meet stringent criteria regarding financial stability, industry reputation, and operational sustainability,” the firm stated.
This careful curation ensures that the facility is not just occupied but optimally tenanted, establishing it as Harare’s premier business hub. Businesses seeking prime office space in this high-profile development are urged to apply early, as demand is expected to outstrip availability.
The facility represents a strategic move by Afreximbank to cement Zimbabwe’s capital as a key player in regional trade and investment.
More than just a commercial complex, it is a symbol of Africa’s economic aspirations—merging innovation, trade facilitation, and architectural excellence.
The project has been led by distinguished industry experts, with Geoff Fox overseeing site supervision and construction management, while Sebastian Claypole provides architectural design expertise. Construction commenced in Q3 2024, with completion expected in 2025, marking a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s infrastructural evolution.
Afreximbank has prioritized local expertise in the facility’s development, ensuring that Zimbabwean architects, engineers, and project managers play a central role in its execution.
This localization strategy not only strengthens the nation’s professional ecosystem but also fosters knowledge transfer and long-term industry growth.
By integrating Zimbabwean talent, Afreximbank aligns seamlessly with the country’s socio-economic framework, reducing reliance on external expertise and promoting self-sufficiency in large-scale development projects. The centre is expected to serve as a catalyst for professional growth, skill enhancement, and capacity-building within Zimbabwe’s built environment sector.
As the HAATC nears its grand unveiling, it stands as a testament to Africa’s potential in driving sustainable, intra-continental trade and economic resurgence. Integrated Properties continues to play a pivotal role in shaping this vision, curating a tenant mix that embodies innovation, excellence, and commercial dynamism.
Businesses eager to be part of this landmark initiative are encouraged to engage with Integrated Properties to secure a presence in what is set to become the epicenter of trade, investment, and economic transformation in Harare and beyond.
