Revitus REIT Partners with LEVA Hotels to Transform Harare’s Chester House into EKONO by LEVA
Dubai-based LEVA Hotels has signed a landmark agreement with Revitus Property Opportunities Real Estate Investment Trust (Revitus REIT), managed by CBZ Asset Management (Pvt) Ltd, trading as Datvest, to redevelop the historic Chester House in Harare, Zimbabwe, into a 3-star upscale hotel under the EKONO by LEVA brand.
The project marks LEVA Hotels’ first entry into Southern Africa, reinforcing its international expansion strategy across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. For Revitus REIT, the agreement represents the start of its long-term plan to revitalise and repurpose its property portfolio, a vision that began with the REIT’s listing on the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange in December 2023.
Revitalising a Harare Landmark
Situated at 88 Speke Avenue in Harare’s central business district, Chester House is one of the city’s most iconic commercial properties. Once redeveloped, the new EKONO by LEVA @ Chester House will feature 117 contemporary guest rooms, modern social spaces, and curated dining options tailored for both business and leisure travellers.
The transformation aims to balance heritage preservation with modern hospitality, enhancing Harare’s appeal as a destination for regional and international visitors.
Why Southern Africa Matters
Southern Africa is emerging as a fast-growing hub for tourism and business travel, supported by stronger connectivity, natural attractions, and expanding investment opportunities. Zimbabwe, in particular, is positioning itself as a regional gateway, with increased focus on tourism infrastructure and international collaborations.
For LEVA Hotels, Zimbabwe represents a key entry point to the region, aligning with the group’s strategy of offering modern, affordable, and design-led hospitality experiences.
Leaders’ Insights
JS Anand, Founder and CEO of LEVA Hotels, commented:
“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, Managing Director of CBZ Asset Management and Fund Manager of Revitus REIT, added:
“Our partnership with LEVA Hotels is a strategic move to unlock new value from Chester House. Together, we aim to deliver a product that meets global hospitality standards while resonating with Zimbabwe’s dynamic market.”
The partnership was announced during ZimReal – Zimbabwe’s Property Investment Forum – in Harare, where Agatha Dzenga, Projects Development & Operations Manager at Bay Harbour International, highlighted its importance for Zimbabwe’s real estate and hospitality growth.
Strengthening Harare’s Global Position
The redeveloped hotel is expected to play a vital role in positioning Harare as a gateway city for both tourism and business. By combining heritage preservation with contemporary hospitality standards, EKONO by LEVA @ Chester House is set to redefine the hospitality landscape in Zimbabwe’s capital.
