Mbano Manor Hotel in Victoria Falls has joined the global hospitality group Accor, under the franchise flag of the Accor premium brand called the Mantis Collection.
A statement issued by Mbano Manor Hotel in Victoria Falls stated that the hotel will trade as Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls by Mantis, effective from 01 June 2023.
This confirms a press release issued by the ACCOR Middle East and Africa office last week, which announced that Accor has signed a partnership agreement with Mambano Hotels Zimbabwe, the parent company of Mbano Manor Hotel. The Accor statement further advised that Mbano will be the first internationally branded hotel in Victoria Falls, in over a decade.
Founded by Zimbabwe entrepreneur and tourism professional Dr Mati Nyazema (Doc Mati), the new Mbano Manor Hotel opened in January 2020. The boutique Mbano Manor Hotel is comprised of 18 luxury suites and a presidential Villa, located on a four-acre teak forest, only minutes away from the majestic Victoria Falls National Park.
Commenting on the Accor partnership, Dr Nyazema said, “This is an exciting development for us, and for the tourism industry in Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe. Our hotel product and our team have been selected as ideal partners by an esteemed international hospitality chain. This means our guests will continue to benefit from local management and ownership, while enjoying the added value of global hospitality and exceptional experiences.”
Doc Mati added, “The Mantis brand is guided by the principles of conservation, sustainability, and community development. Our proudly Zimbabwean brand celebrates similar values. Yet there is always room to learn more and achieve greater heights in saving the planet and respecting communities and wildlife. We celebrate and share our rich African culture, while also protecting the world heritage site of the majestic Victoria Falls.”
“I am delighted to lead the team on this next exciting journey for our hotel. Mbano Manor Hotel by Mantis will grow our vision to become the bespoke and sought-after safari destination for discerning global travellers, who seek a tranquil and intimate eco-luxury experience, while immersing in local stories. This franchise partnership with Accor is a great steppingstone towards achieving this vision” concludes Doc Mati.
