RTG pumps US$500K into New Ambassador Hotel overhaul
STAFF WRITER
Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) has invested US$500,000 into the refurbishment of its New Ambassador Hotel in Harare’s central business district, in a strategic move to modernise its city-centre offering and reinforce its hospitality footprint in Zimbabwe.
The extensive renovations, completed in March 2025, form part of RTG’s broader infrastructure upgrade programme aimed at enhancing guest experiences, boosting operational efficiency, and aligning with global hospitality trends.
“In a strategic move to strengthen its hospitality footprint in Zimbabwe’s capital city, Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) has invested US$500,000 in the comprehensive refurbishment of the New Ambassador Hotel, located in the heart of Harare’s central business district,” the group said in a statement.
“The renovations, completed in March 2025, are part of RTG’s broader infrastructure upgrade programme aimed at enhancing guest experience, improving operational efficiency, and aligning with international hospitality trends.”
The 72 guest rooms—including executive and junior suites—have been redesigned with modern furnishings and optimised layouts. Each room now includes upgraded headboards, bedside tables, stylish lighting, and international power outlets featuring USB and Type-C charging ports.
Bathrooms were relocated for improved spaciousness and fitted with water-saving toilets and walk-in showers. The hotel also introduced a paraplegic-accessible room, while its Wi-Fi infrastructure was upgraded to deliver seamless high-speed internet connectivity.
“The New Ambassador Hotel refurbishment forms part of RTG’s wider investment in infrastructure upgrades, which have totalled US$26 million over the past five years. In July 2024, the group completed a US$5.2 million renovation of the Rainbow Towers Hotel and Harare International Conference Centre (HICC),” RTG noted.
“The project included the creation of six new luxury diplomatic suites and a Presidential Suite developed by combining four rooms into a premium space with two en-suite bedrooms, a lounge, dining area, kitchenette, and a visitor’s bathroom.
“Additionally, 48 guest rooms were modernised, and the HICC was outfitted with new conference seating equipped with integrated charging ports for 3-pin, USB, and Type-C devices.”
In the first quarter of 2025, RTG also invested US$380,000 in its Victoria Falls properties, namely the Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel and A’Zambezi River Lodge, further reinforcing its presence in tourism hotspots.
RTG chief executive officer Tendai Madziwanyika highlighted the strategic significance of these upgrades in driving growth and redefining the hospitality landscape in Zimbabwe.
“As RTG, we view infrastructure investment as a strategic lever for growth, differentiation, and long-term value creation,” Madziwanyika said.
“The refurbishment of the New Ambassador Hotel is part of a deliberate plan to modernise our assets, uplift our city-centre offering, and contribute to urban renewal in Harare’s CBD.
“We are not just upgrading hotels—we are elevating the guest journey, improving accessibility, embedding sustainability, and supporting Zimbabwe’s tourism and economic development agenda.
“Our investment signals confidence in the future of Zimbabwean hospitality and reflects our belief that exceptional service must be matched by exceptional spaces.”
Speaking during a tour of the newly-refurbished New Ambassador Hotel, RTG corporate affairs and quality manager Pride Khumbula revealed the group’s next move involves renovations at Montclair Resort and Conference Hotel, RTG’s newest acquisition.
She also confirmed that the refurbishment of Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel is complete, while the second phase of work at A’Zambezi River Lodge will be executed in the next low season.
“With a focus on sustainability and investment in its properties, RTG is poised to continue its growth and development in the hospitality industry, reducing its carbon footprint and promoting eco-friendly practices,” said Khumbula.
