The hospitality sector in Zambia is on the brink of a significant transformation with the announced arrival of the flagship Hyatt Regency brand in Lusaka. This landmark development sees a Hyatt affiliate forging a strategic partnership with ASB Hotel Properties and Albwardy Investments (Pamodzi Hotels PLC) to rebrand the esteemed Pamodzi Hotel. This move is not only the debut of a Hyatt-branded property in Zambia but also signifies a new era of international recognition for Lusaka, one of Southern Africa’s rapidly expanding capitals.

Currently operating as The Pamodzi Hotel, the property is set to undergo an extensive renovation. Crucially, it will remain open to guests throughout this refurbishment period, which is slated for completion in 2026. Upon the conclusion of this ambitious project, the hotel will officially reopen its doors under the prestigious Hyatt Regency banner. This strategic rebranding initiative is meticulously designed to elevate the property to a world-class destination, appealing to both business and leisure travellers alike. It also underscores Albwardy Investments’ steadfast commitment to Africa’s burgeoning hospitality sector and its dedication to crafting exceptional guest experiences in markets that demonstrate strong growth potential.

Once reopened, the Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi will feature 170 meticulously appointed guestrooms and suites. Each accommodation will boast contemporary décor and thoughtful design elements, ensuring a premium and comfortable stay for its visitors. Beyond its luxurious rooms, the hotel’s facilities will include versatile meeting and event spaces, capable of accommodating a wide array of gatherings, from large-scale international conferences to more intimate corporate meetings and social events.

The hotel’s prime location further enhances its appeal, placing guests conveniently near Lusaka’s pivotal business district. It also offers easy access to significant tourist attractions, such as the Lusaka National Museum, a cultural hub that eloquently showcases Zambian history, art, and traditions. For those with a passion for wildlife and adventure, the property is strategically positioned just a 30-minute drive from engaging experiences like the Lusaka National Park and the renowned Elephant Orphanage Project, managed by Game Rangers International.

A significant benefit for frequent travellers will be the inclusion of the new Lusaka property in the World of Hyatt loyalty programme. Members will have the opportunity to earn and redeem points, as well as accrue tier-qualifying night credits, enhancing the value of their stays. This expansion not only solidifies Hyatt’s growing footprint across the African continent but also significantly broadens the options available to international and regional travellers seeking trusted, high-quality accommodation standards in Zambia.

Stephen Ansell, Managing Director for the Middle East and Africa at Hyatt, expressed his enthusiasm, describing the signing as a “fantastic milestone” in the group’s overarching African growth strategy. He highlighted the commitment to enhancing Hyatt’s brand presence in the region and expanding its Classics Portfolio into new and promising destinations. Concurring with this sentiment, Mr. Ali Albwardy, Chairman of Albwardy Investments, emphasized the project’s importance. He stated that The Pamodzi Hotel has long been an iconic landmark in Lusaka, and through this extensive renovation and rebranding, the objective is to transform it into a premier global destination for both business and leisure travellers. This project, he reiterated, exemplifies Albwardy Investments’ ongoing dedication to Africa’s hospitality sector and its mission to create unparalleled guest experiences in markets exhibiting robust growth prospects.

The introduction of the Hyatt Regency brand in Lusaka is anticipated to generate a profound ripple effect across Zambia’s tourism and business sectors. The hotel’s upgraded facilities and internationally recognized branding are expected to attract a more diverse spectrum of guests, ranging from corporate delegates attending conferences to leisure tourists keen on exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions. This strategic move also aligns seamlessly with Zambia’s broader ambitions to establish Lusaka as a leading regional hub for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), thereby significantly elevating the city’s profile on the continental stage.

For Africa’s wider travel sector, this development serves as a clear and positive signal of renewed investor confidence and underscores the increasing allure of the continent’s dynamic urban destinations. The collaborative partnership between Hyatt, ASB Hotel Properties, and Albwardy Investments vividly illustrates the immense value of cross-border cooperation in unlocking novel opportunities for growth, innovation, and enhanced service delivery within the African hospitality landscape. As the countdown to 2026 commences, the transformation of The Pamodzi Hotel into Hyatt Regency Lusaka The Pamodzi is poised to redefine the benchmarks for luxury, service excellence, and international connectivity throughout Zambia and the sub-Saharan African region.