PUBLISHER’S MEMO
PUBLISHER’S MEMO
DripTech Irrigation has opened a new facility in Pomona, Borrowdale, adding to their steadily expanding branches across Zimbabwe. Originally focused on micro-irrigation, it has broadened its offerings to include a comprehensive array of water-related products, including borehole pumps, tanks, pressure tanks, booster pumps, and an extensive range
Welcome to the first edition of Structure and Design Magazine for 2025! As we step into a new year, we continue our commitment to showcasing the ingenuity, ambition, and craftsmanship shaping Zimbabwe’s built environment. Issue 72 is packed with remarkable stories of innovation, precision and architectural brilliance, but at the heart of it all is our cover feature—Aquabridge.
The mining town of Mazowe is poised for a
of a state-of-the-art shopping mall, known as Mazowe Walk Shopping Mall. This ambitious project is being spear headed by Gateway Construction.
Aquabridge has grown into a formidable force in Zimbabwe’s electrical cables industry and their newly completed headquarters and warehouse along the Harare–Chitungwiza. This facility, a commercial structure, is quite a bold statement about where the industry is headed. From its energy-efficient design to its meticulous attention to aesthetics and functionality, this headquarters marks a new era for Aquabridge. Purpose-built for efficien cy, entirely solar-powered and strategically positioned for accessibility, this space signals a future where sustainability and smart design go hand in hand. Their journey—from being a distributor to establishing a firm presence in the market—is a story of resilience, strategy, and ambition. If there is one article you should not miss in this issue, it is this one.
The Hive 25 is a vibrant business hub where professionals can work, connect and grow in an environment infused with natural beauty and community spirit. The place is not only a sanctuary for productivity, creativity and collaboration, but one aimed at building a community.
Construction Matrix’s investment in cutting-edge German steel fabrication technology, further highlight the advancements being made across different facets of the industry. It is set to revolutionise the industry with faster, more precise manufacturing.
Coastal Construction, a leading and trusted name in construction, offers a comprehensive range of services to bring your vision to life. Based in Harare, they specialize in all aspects of brickwork, substructure foundations, and related works.
touches, they are committed to delivering excellence in every project.
The iconic Harare Showgrounds is set to undergo a dramatic transformation following Terrace Several leading construction companies have been roped in to spearhead the project and among them is steel infrastructural experts Brown Engineering Group.
Meanwhile, Brown Engineering Group cements its reputation with a robust steel structure for Electrosales’ new Pomona warehouse, built with the current demands of the hardware sec tor in mind.Jekesa is redefining the lighting and electrical space with products that strike a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Our piece on 258 Hotel, looks at a hospitality player positioned on the fringes of Harare’s Central Business District, and offering a contemporary retreat that successfully blends modern luxury with rich cultural heritage. An in-
its unassuming elegance, providing a tranquil haven for both business and leisure travellers alike.
WestProp is set to revolutionise the hospitality sector with their Radisson Millennium Heights Aparthotel project. Again, we take a deep dive into the critical role of home improvement loans in Zimbabwe’s property landscape, shedding light on how they are helping home owners achieve their dream spaces.
As always, Structure and Design Magazine remains dedicated to providing a platform for industry players to share their expertise, inspire innovation and drive the sector forward. Whether you are a developer, architect, engineer, investor or simply someone with an appreciation for great design, we hope this issue fuels your passion for the spaces we create and the impact they have on our communities.
Here is to a year of bold structures, groundbreaking projects and vision design!
Founded in 2016, Bellington Riggers (Pvt) Ltd is one of the foremost construcexpertise in steel fabrication, electrical engineering and of course, rigging, the tractor of choice in the rapidly advancing construction sector.
Enjoy the read.
In our attempt to support women in construction we feature several women doing wonders in the in the broader building construction space. These are Padsor Scaffolding and Construction, a company at the forefront of providing innovative scaffolding solutions and construction services; MajorCon, a leading civil engineering company specializing in precast concrete products and services and Elegance Ivy Construction and Interior Design, renowned for crafting luxurious, functional, and elegant spaces.
For more surprise insights in this editing, keep reading!
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its content, neither editor nor publisher can be held responsible for any omissions or errors: or for any misfortune, injury, or damages which may arise there-of.
All rights reserved. Copyright 2025
No Part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means electric or mechanical, including photocopying or recording.
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PUBLISHER
Caast Media Group
MARKETING
Tinashe Mafiko
Newton Musara
+263 781 421 866
+263 781 512 568
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Takudzwa Matienga Saul Chidakwa
VIDEOGRAPHY
Joshua Govati Kudakwashe Gakaka
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Albert Chitunha Natasha Munyukwa
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Martin Chemhere Farai Chaka
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AQUABRIDGE’S GRAND OPENING: A NEW POWERHOUSE FOR ZIMBABWE’S CABLE INDUSTRY.
By Martin Chemhere | Photos by Caast Media Group
A striking new landmark has risen along the Harare-Chitungwiza Highway, signalling a new era for Aquabridge Private Limited, a leading provider of high-quality electrical power cables and related products and services. This impressive mixed-use commercial infrastructure, located in Retreat just after Hatfield when travelling from Harare, houses a state-of-the-art warehouse, a modern showroom, and Aquabridge’s new headquarters, marking the company’s full-fledged entry into the Zimbabwean market and solidifying its commitment to powering the nation’s future. Previously operating from The Grange,Aquabridge is the official Zimbabwean distributor for Aberdare Cables of South Africa.
Strategic Location, Streamlined Access:
The location on the Harare-Chitungwiza Highway offers several strategic advantages. Its proximity to the main road ensures easy accessibility for customers, while convenient access to this arterial route facilitates onward journeys. Unlike some Harare locations, this corridor remains relatively decongested, ensuring smooth and efficient operations for businesses like Aquabridge. This prime location allows Aquabridge to be closer to its customers, providing unparalleled shopping convenience under one roof and marking a shift from their previously pursued, targeted marketing strategy. The building itself represents a new era for the company, transforming an area previously lacking world-class infrastructure. During Structure and Design Magazine’s visit, only interior and exterior signage remained to be completed, yet the building’s masterful construction was evident.
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Designed for Efficiency and Customer Experience:
The 1500-square-metre building, 100% powered by solar energy, is designed with both operational efficiency and customer experience in mind. The expansive 900-square-metre warehouse, with three roller shutter doors for dispatch, receiving, and access to overspill stock areas, allows Aquabridge to efficiently manage inventory and fulfil orders quickly, minimising lead times for customers. Unusually, the building’s design prioritises access to the rear off-loading, loading, and parking areas, ensuring smooth and efficient transactions for customers collecting goods.
The headquarters’ entrance, featuring a striking façade of large glass panels supplied by Architectural Aluminium, faces the Harare – Chitungwiza Highway frontage. This striking glass façade creates a welcoming and professional impression, reflecting Aquabridge's commitment to quality and building customer confidence from the moment they arrive. Inside, the ground floor covering 300 square metres, houses a striking entrance that leads to a semi-open plan space. The building’s main focal point is the reception and call centre area. A modern showroom, manned by the technical sales team, provides a comfortable and convenient experience for customers seeking expert advice and product selection, complete with literature, brochures, and technical guidance.
A customer waiting area with access to outside landscaped gardens offers a relaxing and pleasant environment, further enhancing the overall customer experience. A larger dispatch area for bulk orders is located inside the warehouse.
The headquarters’ offices are designed for quietness, effectively isolating any noise from the warehouse, while still maintaining architectural integration. This allows for a productive work environment while ensuring smooth coordination between departments.
Owner-Driven Vision:
Hannan Chitate, the company’s founder and Managing Director served as project manager, collaborating with established building and construction consultants. He created the initial structural and functional drawings, then engaging architects later. He also developed the interior design concepts executed by International Slab Sales, who cut and assembled the design elements.
“This building is more than just a warehouse and office space; it's a symbol of our commitment to our customers and our belief in the future of Zimbabwe,” said Chitate.
“We designed it with efficiency and customer experience in mind, reflecting our core values as a company.”
The headquarters’ ground floor includes disability-friendly bathrooms. The upper floor houses large offices occupied by team leaders for Finance, Marketing, Logistics, Stores and Procurement and Executive Office. The boardroom occupies a central space covering 50 square metres and has a nine-person capacity table made from exquisite teak wood furniture custom made for Aquabridge by Adam Bede.
An artistic, fabricated steel staircase connects the ground and first floors of the offices. Another staircase on the
external side of the office section also provides direct access to the first floor from the main gate. The teak handrails on the 24-metre-long internal balustrades covering the double volume reception area, are a striking feature from the ground floor, and complementary to the grand ceiling chandeliers. Timepiece fabricated on site the two staircases and all balustrades.
Other project partners included Revolta’s Roots (Ruwa) and Adam Bede, who supplied high-end teak furniture complemented by teak doors from Lupane Timbers. Homestyle provided pavers, Beta Bricks supplied bricks, and cement came from Khayah and PPC.
“I designed the building, layout, and functionality, working with Struqton Structural Pvt Ltd as the engineers and Craftworx Architecture as the architects - consulting them on design and execution, including the installation of beams, trusses, and other elements,” said Chitate. “This is a passion project, executed with determination and delivered with honour to all our customers, who deserve nothing but the best.”
The 18-month construction period, was generally longer than expected as the project was funded from organic capital accumulation. The building is surrounded by gardens with lush green lawns and flowers that creates a great space for customers to relax and mingle whilst being attended to. A spacious car park is located in front of the headquarters’ reception, with another adjacent to the warehouse.
A 96 square metre recreational space for employee breaks is planned adjacent to the external staircase, furnished with a gazebo tent for weather protection.
Service and Market Confidence:
Aquabridge launches its new headquarters and warehouse with strong confidence, poised to disrupt the local cables market. “The cables industry has existed for decades, but our unique selling point is our focus on quality fit for purpose products,” said the founder. “Firstly, we consistently provide highest quality products. Secondly, it’s delivery efficiency. We pride ourselves in providing utmost quality products and efficiency in service delivery.”
This commitment to quality and service is further reinforced by their investment in a fleet of commercial vehicles for nationwide delivery, including five-tonne vehicles, 1 tonne NP300 Nissan vehicles, and a 15-tonne truck, all purchased locally.
Aquabridge aims to be closer to its customers, by providing unparalleled shopping convenience under one roof. Their initial expansion target is the Midlands region due to the concentration of mining clients, followed by Bulawayo and potentially Marondera, seen as a growth area after Chitungwiza. They are also positioning themselves to serve the farming community, requiring cables for water irrigation, with sales peaking during the tobacco marketing season (April-July), as well as the commercial construction sector, with the many cluster home developments in and outside Harare. “We understand agility is crucial for business. Our main proposition remains centred on listening and r esponsiveness to client needs,” said Chitate.
History and Future:
Aquabridge has operated from The Grange since its 2016 founding, beginning intense trading in 2017, initially providing high-voltage electrical products, electrical power line construction materials, generator sets and tools and equipment. Recognizing a market opportunity due to inconsistent cable, wire, and conductor supplies, the company began focusing on these products around 2019-2020, achieving significant growth during the COVID period and beyond. They also offer related products, supplying utilities like ZETDC, Zimbabwe Power Company, REA, ZINWA and many other private companies.
“We have maintained our traditional customers over the years, and we are indebted to them for believing in us, early on. We listened to our customers’ expectations and have successfully designed and delivered a quality product modelled around our customers’ needs and wants,” said Chitate.
Community Promise:
A long-term corporate social responsibility program will be launched for the surrounding community. While projects are still in planning, management has identified areas for assistance and will communicate them soon. Local community members will be considered for employment.
Readers interested in learning more about Aquabridge’s products and services are encouraged to visit or contact them:
7530 Seke Road, Retreat, Harare
Tel: +263 242 586 444 / +263 242 586 411 Cell: +263 782 513 939 Email: sales@aquabridge.co.zw www.aquabridge.co.zw
CONSTRUCTION MATRIX REVOLUTIONIZES STEEL FABRICATION WITH
STATE-OF-THE-ART
GERMAN TECHNOLOGY
By Martin Chemhere
Bluffhill-based Construction Matrix, a new player in Zimbabwe's construction sector, has acquired a cutting-edge, steel drilling and sawing machine that is set to revolutionize the steel fabrication sector. The strategic investment will make the company competitive while also helping to enhance efficiency, precision, and capacity.
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Photography By Caast Media Group
Machine features and technical prowess:
The Germany technology based, DMS700 CNC Drilling and Sawing Machine for beams boasts seven CNC axes, three servo spindles, and the capacity for simultaneous drilling on three sides of H-beams. Its advanced CNC system and German technology represent a substantial leap forward in steel processing technology.
Designed for high efficiency, the machine handles a variety of steel profiles, including H-beams, I-beams, and U-channels, accommodating beam sizes from 150mm to 700mm and thicknesses up to 60mm. Safety is paramount, with integrated covers protecting operators during operation.
The machine's technical prowess is evident in its precise specifications. Three servo-motor-controlled slipways, guided by precision linear roller guides and driven by AC servo motors and ball screws, ensure accurate workpiece positioning.
The precision spindles, characterized by high rotary accuracy and rigidity, are driven by servo motors, offering a wide and steplessly adjustable rotation speed range. Three inline tool changers, each capable of holding four tools, enable automatic tool changes during drilling operations, accommodating varying diameter requirements.
Furthermore, integrated flange width and web height detection devices compensate for workpiece deformation, guaranteeing processing accuracy. The carriage feeding system, driven by a servo motor and rack-and-pinion mechanism with encoder feedback, further contributes to precise positioning. The sophisticated cooling system offers both spray cooling modes, with internal and external cooling capacities, adaptable to specific drilling needs.
Operational efficiency:
This acquisition marks a significant upgrade from the local steel industry's previous reliance on manual drilling and cutting processes. These traditional methods presented several limitations, including labour-intensive operations, higher manpower requirements, process inefficiencies, and a greater potential for inaccuracies.
"As a new company on the market, our new machine is expected to improve efficiency and turnaround time for projects. It will reduce turnaround time by over 50%. Steel processing that used to take 7 days is will now be done in just one day," explained Mr Chengetai Mawoyo, founder of the company.
Beyond increased speed and capacity, the machine dramatically improves the quality and precision of cutting and drilling. When they start operation soon, Construction Matrix anticipates achieving 99.99% precision, virtually eliminating human error. This enhanced accuracy will empower the company to immediately undertake larger and more complex projects.
The future:
These advancements will directly benefit the company's clients. Faster project completion, reduced costs, and improved quality will now be tangible advantages. Looking ahead, the company plans to offer steel materials alongside drilling and cutting services, creating a convenient, one-stop shop for clients.
“In the long run, we will be able to offer machined materials ready for projects, clients will benefit from reduced transport costs, have quicker turnaround times for projects, quality and accuracy beams,” noted Mawoyo.
Noting that the pricing strategy for these services, both with and without supplied steel, will be based on a per-kilogram processed model, factoring in the number of drilling and cutting operations required per length.
Though it’s still starting, Construction Matrix has ambitious plans for the future. The company intends to acquire additional machinery and further expand its metal fabrication services. "Our future in steel processing is infinite.
We see the business acquiring future technologies and machines, including AI that improve efficiency in the steel construction industry of Zimbabwe,” Mawoyo explained. This acquisition aligns with the company’s long-term business strategy.
“We want this service to be used across the country, creating ability for growth, innovation and adaptability,” he emphasized.
Located on a 10,000 square meter industrial site in Bluffhill, Construction Matrix employs specialized, skilled staff. The facility is powered by a 500 kVA transformer and a 200 kVA backup generator, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
With this significant investment in advanced technology, the new company is poised to make an impact in Zimbabwe's steel fabrication and construction sector.
BROWN ENGINEERING GROUP CREATES NEW POMONA WAREHOUSE FOR ELECTROSALES
text by Michael Nott
Images by Caast Media Group
Brown Engineering Group’s presence can currently be seen in multiple projects across Harare’s commercial and industrial sites and the outlying regions – particularly in Victoria Falls. They are one of the leaders in the design, construction and installation of steel structures across the country focusing on commercial, retail and bespoke manufacturing.
They not only provide the most comprehensive and efficient services they also have the most competitive prices for any steel work. Their many projects include warehouses, factories, wholesale and retail outlets and even school facilities.
Brown Engineering Group was founded in 1976 and from fairly humble beginnings has grown to become one of the foremost engineering companies in Zimbabwe and the Southern African region. Regional projects include Ethiopia and Tanzania as well as Malawi, Mozambique, Angola and Zambia.
They are still based at their original premises in Southerton where they have extensive workshops and manufacturing facilities. The founder was Strath Brown who named the company J S Brown Industries – mainly focused on
agricultural products largely for the tobacco industry. In 1986 Andrew Brown took over the reins from his father and diversified their products and services to include broader agricultural facilities – tobacco curing barns, tobacco handling, heating and grading systems, baling presses and boxes, farm sheds and trailers.
They also moved into the mining and construction industries as well as pipe and tank projects and materials handling. Their projects range from smaller concerns to huge developments.
There is nothing that Brown Engineering Group can’t handle. One of their recent projects, featured in Structure and Design, (issue 66) was to supply the steel work for the Gwebi River bridge and the new Dulux Paints warehouse in Southerton (issue 69). They’re currently very busy with various construction projects in Victoria Falls as well as the 2.4 km pipeline for the Nyangani Renewable Energy project in the Eastern Highlands. Among many other prestigious accomplishments, they contributed the steel work for the bridge at the Palm River Hotel in Victoria Falls.
A recent project in Harare is the new Electrosales Hardware outlet in Pomona. The new warehouse is almost a mirror of the existing original outlet structure next to it and has been sympathetically designed and built to make the two buildings complement each other. The new structure was designed by Mark Sanderson from the local architectural firm Draftworx and built in conjunction with Brown Engineering Group and Kalamain Construction who worked closely together for the final product. Although the two buildings are fully detached it’s obvious that they create an integrated whole. The two structures are similar in size and volume with the same charcoal grey Chromadek cladding (called dark dolphin) on the roof and the walls, as well as similar red brick facades, which help to create a unified aesthetic.
Working with the architect and with Kalamain Construction, Brown Engineering Group has created a very impressive new outlet for Electrosales. The new building focuses more on construction hardware like doors and doorframes, window frames, structural timber, PVC piping and bulk cement orders. It’s orientated to take care of building contractors with bigger orders but can also accommodate home DIY enthusiasts who only need smaller quantities.
In order to accommodate bigger trucks for delivery and dispatch there are four 6m x 6m roller shutter doors for easy access. Brown Engineering Group worked with our team of engineers as well as the Architect and Project Manager Mark Sanderson and Engineer Derick Kambarami (from Infradesign, multidisciplinary engineering consultants) to come up with the final design specifications. According to Shepherd Tshalibe, site manager for Brown Engineering Group, “Planning took a couple of months, but due to the best brains in the industry, it was easier to coordinate and meet client requirements.”
It was a very complex project with the main warehouse roof being 42 x 42 metres at a height of around 12.5 meters. In addition, there are exterior canopies on all four sides that extend about six meters from the main structure. The two structures make Electrosales one of the biggest hardware outlets in Zimbabwe.
The roof trusses were manufactured at Brown Engineering Group’s workshop and then transported to site on 30 tonne trucks and assembled using their in-house crane to lift up the trusses and fix the Chromadek roof and cladding. The trusses are triangular lattice structures to help create the desired roof pitch. While the girders are extremely strong they needed four, slim internal pillars for support.
Leaving out the internal pillars would have changed the design dramatically and been much less cost effective. The current design is value orientated and provides considerable savings. The roof has no skylights for natural lighting, as per the architect’s specifications, which means that the internal lighting – colour and brightness - is consistent and carefully controlled at all times.
The structure was fitted to concrete stubcolumns generated by Kalamain Construction during the manufacturing of the main slab. The construction and finishing of the floor slab was done by Kalamain after the roof was put in place. Brown Engineering Group’s mission is “To achieve and sustain a DIFOT (Delivery in Full On Time) Key Performance Indicator in excess of 95%.” They have certainly achieved this, and more, at the Pomona Electrosales new outlet.
JEKESA: LIGHTING AND ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS LIKE NO OTHER
Text by Farai Chaka
Jekesa is not just another lighting and electrical hardware store. Located in Eastlea, their showroom is a curated space showcasing an impressive range of high-quality lighting and electrical solutions for both residential and commercial settings.
From stylish ambiance to functional efficiency, Jekesa has the perfect solution or product for you.Jekesa’s lighting products are designed to strike a balance between aesthetics, practicality and energy efficiency. Their product lineup includes:
• Designer and Smart Switches and Sockets.
• Pendants and Chandeliers – Statement pieces that bring elegance and character to any space.
• Downlights and Panel Lights – Ideal for both ambient and task lighting and also perfect for homes and businesses.
• Track Lights and Aluminium Profiles – Flexible solutions for custom lighting designs.
• Custom-Made Lights
Jekesa also extends its expertise beyond lighting with a selection of electrical accessories such as, floor heating mats, electric towel rails, shaver units and other thoughtfully designed accessories for everyday use.
Photos by Caast Media Group
Other Services
Jekesa also offers specialised services such as:
• Lighting Design and Consultation – Expert advice to create the perfectly lit environment.
• Project Management and Construction – A full-spectrum service ensuring precision and quality in execution.
• Custom Electrical Solutions – Bespoke electrical and lighting setups for homes, offices and large-scale projects.
Supplying Projects of Every Scale
Jekesa has the capacity to supply a wide range of projects, from individual homes to large-scale developments. Their clientele includes:
• Cluster Developments and Estates
• Hotels, Lodges and Boutique Hotels
• Commercial and Industrial Spaces
• Residential Units
• Jekesa is more than a retailer offering premium products and expert services to transform any space. Whether you are renovating a home, developing real estate, or managing a commercial project, Jekesa is ready to help you with their cutting-edge solutions. And with their website, exploring and acquiring the perfect lighting and electrical solutions has never been easier.
PAINTS: CEILING WHITE FOR THE PERFECT MATT FINISH
By Martin Chemhere
Achieving a flawless, matt finish on interior ceilings can dramatically enhance the look and feel of any space. This is where the specialized paint known as "Ceiling White" comes into its own. Designed specifically for ceilings, this paint offers a unique combination of properties that make it the ideal choice for creating a smooth, non-reflective surface.
The origins of ceiling white paint can be traced back to the need for a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution for interior ceilings. Historically, ceilings were often left unfinished or simply whitewashed with lime. However, with the development of modern paint technology, specialized formulations emerged, designed to address the specific challenges of painting ceilings. These challenges included minimizing light reflection, hiding imperfections, and providing good coverage with minimal dripping.
Ceiling white paint is typically formulated with a high pigment concentration and a flat or matt finish. This combination allows it to effectively conceal minor surface flaws, such as uneven plaster or hairline cracks, creating a uniform and visually appealing surface. The matt finish is crucial for minimizing glare and reflections from overhead lighting, which can be distracting and uncomfortable. Instead, it diffuses light evenly, creating a soft and ambient atmosphere.
One of the key advantages of ceiling white is its ease of application. It is generally formulated to be thicker than standard wall paints, which helps to prevent drips and splatters, making it easier to achieve a clean and professional finish, even for DIY enthusiasts. This thicker consistency also contributes to its excellent coverage, often requiring fewer
coats than other types of paint.
Now, this versatile and essential paint is available in Zimbabwe, offering homeowners and professionals a reliable solution for achieving perfect ceiling finishes. Whether you're renovating an existing space or working on a new construction project, ceiling white provides the ideal combination of performance and aesthetics.
Ceiling white paint is suitable for application on a variety of interior surfaces, including cement, concrete, and gypsum. This versatility makes it a practical choice for a wide range of
ceiling types found in homes, offices, and commercial buildings. When applying, it’s always recommended to ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from any loose debris or flaking paint. A primer may be necessary on porous surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion and a uniform finish.
When you choose ceiling white, you’re not just choosing a paint; you're choosing a solution that delivers a smooth, non-reflective, and visually appealing ceiling that complements any interior design. Its availability in Zimbabwe now makes this professional-grade finish accessible to everyone.
MAINTAINING POOLS DURING THE RAINY SEASON
By Martin Chemhere
The rainy season presents unique challenges for pool owners. While the rain can seem like a natural pool refill, it often brings more problems than benefits. Maintaining a clean and healthy pool during this period requires extra attention and specific strategies.
One of the most significant issues is the influx of debris. Rain washes in leaves, dirt, and other organic matter, which can quickly overwhelm your filtration system and lead to algae blooms. Regular skimming and vacuuming are crucial, even more so than during dry periods. Empty skimmer baskets frequently and consider using a pool cover when heavy rain is expected.
Rainwater also affects the pool's chemical balance. It's naturally acidic and can lower the pH and alkalinity levels, making the water corrosive and potentially damaging to pool surfaces and equipment. Test your water chemistry regularly, at least twice a week during heavy rainfall, and adjust the pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer levels as needed. Maintaining proper balance is essential for preventing algae growth and ensuring swimmer safety.
Overfilling is another common problem. Excess water can overflow into the surrounding area, causing erosion and potentially damaging landscaping. If your pool has an overflow drain, ensure it's clear and functioning correctly. If not, consider manually draining excess water to prevent overflow.
Dilution of pool chemicals is also a concern. The influx of rainwater dilutes the concentration of sanitizers like chlorine or bromine, reducing their effectiveness in killing bacteria and algae. Increase the frequency of sanitizer application or consider using a stabilizer to protect the sanitizer from degradation. Finally, remember to check your pool equipment regularly.
Inspect the pump, filter, and other components for any damage or blockages caused by debris. Ensure proper drainage around the equipment to prevent waterlogging and potential electrical hazards. Adhering to these proactive steps, pool owners can effectively maintain their pools during the rainy season, ensuring clean, healthy water and preventing costly repairs down the line.
WESTPROP BRINGS GLOBAL HOTEL BRAND TO ZIMBABWE
Property firm, WestProp Holdings has successfully inked a partnership agreement with hospitality giant, Radisson Hotel Group for the management of the Millennium Heights block 5 aparthotel.
The aparthotel would be known as the Radisson Millennium Heights Aparthotel.
Chief executive officer, Ken Sharpe, signed on behalf of WestProp while Daniel Trappler, the senior director responsible for development in Sub-Sahara Africa signed for the Radisson Hotel Group
The hotel group has an impeccable track record in the management of aparthotels with its entry into the local market expected to ignite excitement and options for discerning travellers and holidayers.
Aparthotels offer a new type of hospitality experience that combines the comfort of home with the services of a hotel.
The 148-roomed aparthotel will have
spacious, fully-equipped apartments with kitchenettes, separate living areas, and bedrooms. Guests can enjoy the flexibility of self-catering while still having access to hotel amenities such as fitness centres, restaurants, and meeting spaces.
The concept offers numerous benefits for both guests and property owners. Guests enjoy the comfort and convenience of a home-away-from-home experience, while owners benefit from Radisson’s global distribution network, revenue management expertise, and operational efficiencies
While the concept is still new in Zimbabwe, the demand for aparthotels is growing rapidly, driven by increasing demand for flexible, self-catering accommodations from business travellers, families, and digital nomads.
The aparthotel whose construction begins this year is expected to open in two years’ time. WestProp has already
started accepting investment into the aparthotel with each share costing U$5 750 inclusive of the furniture.
So far 58 percent of the fractional shares have been bought since launch last November. Multiple investors can part-own an apartment which would be leased out to clients as serviced apartment accommodation short term stay. “After the first year of operation as an aparthotel, investors can expect returns of at least 8 percent. However, as the property values increase and the hotel’s occupancy rates grow, so too will be the return on investment,” said Sharpe.
Sharpe says investors should take up the offer and prepare for their future and that of their children. This is a sure way into long term secure investment. With the guarantee on the returns, it is surely a game changer in the property space in Zimbabwe. This offer is the first of its kind in Zimbabwe, where one can have his/her cake and eat it too.
“Do not miss out on this opportunity to invest in Zimbabwe’s future and secure a share of the profits,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sharpe has urged Rotarians to use their different vocations and life skills to impact the community and engender positive change and development.
He made the call when he addressed the Rotary Club of Harare City on Tuesday on the topic vocational service.
“I challenge each of you to identify one way you can apply your vocational skills to serve others. Whether it is through mentorship, skills training, or community development projects, let us work together to make a meaningful difference in our communities.
“I have seen that in my own life that being successful in your own right is one thing. But achieving significance and benefitting society and others is much greater,” he said.
He urged Rotarians to use their God given talents to positively impact society as doing do so brings fulfilment.
“When you apply yourself to use your talent for the right reasons and the right purpose, you will be fulfilled. You will not be worried so much about how much you are paid at the end of the month or how much you are making because that sense of fulfilment is something in you that you know inherently you are born with,” he said.
He said each person should self-reflect on their purpose in life adding that sports persons, business people, public speakers and all other professions should use their inborn skills to change the world and “increase their sphere of influence because you are no longer just serving self — you are actually serving others”.
He said the Lord blesses each individual differently “so that we can be a vehicle for those blessings to flow through to impact the lives of others”
“As Rotarians serving others brings integrity and satisfaction. By applying our professional skills to serve others, we demonstrate our commitment to integrity and ethical behaviour. By serving others we are able to engage with communities, understand their needs and address or bring projects that serve their needs,” he said.
Sharpe said before assisting communities, Rotarians should listen and understand the needs of the people they want to help so that they address the true needs of those communities. “
Vocational service is not only about what you think and decide to be important. It involves listening to those voiceless people in the back of beyond. They have needs that require capable hands and willing hearts to put into place,” he said.
He said by taking on vocational service projects, Rotarians develop leadership skills, learn to work with others, and confidence building.
“You become part of the transformational change you want to see in the various communities and individuals you engage with,” he said.
He highlighted a few of the activities that he is engaged in as part of his giving back to society. He cited the Sharpe Business Academy, payment of school fees to scores of orphans and vulnerable children, assistance of widows and single mothers with business start-ups to sustain their families.
“At WestProp Holdings we are committed to vocational service through school fees assistance to scores of orphans and vulnerable children. We assist widows and single mothers with business start-ups so that they can look after themselves. We take in a number of student attaches all with a vision of empowering them and to give them on the job training and infuse in them our culture of excellence,” he said.
He received applause from the Rotarians when he mentioned the work that WestProp did in the Greenwood Park that included furnishing the park with new benches. “In 2023 we committed to rehabilitating the Greenwood Park so that Harare residents could find a pleasant play centre. We provided benches, bins, and rehabilitated the children’s play centre and added a few traditional games like pada and nhodo,” he said.
Source https://www.businessweekly. co.zw/westprop-radisson-in-management-deal-to-run-millennium-heightsaparthotels/
A SNAPSHOT OF NSSA’S KEY PROPERTY INVESTMENTS
By Martin Chemhere
The National Social Security Authority (NSSA) has a diverse investment portfolio that includes a significant number of commercial properties. These properties range from shopping centers and office buildings to hotels and residential complexes.
Some of the flagship properties in the NSSA portfolio include the NSSA Harare and Social Security Centre, which are prominent office buildings in the capital city.
The portfolio also boasts several shopping centers located in different parts of the country, such as the Chipinge Shopping Centre (Chipinge), Pomona Shopping Centre (Borrowdale, Harare), and Gwanda Shopping Mall (Gwanda).
These centers provide retail space for a variety of businesses and serve as important commercial hubs in their respective locations.
In addition to shopping centers and office buildings, NSSA has also invested in other types of properties. Celestial Park (Borrowdale), for instance, is a mixed-use development that includes office space, retail space, and residential units.
St Tropez Apartments (Eastlea) is another residential property in the portfolio, offering housing options in a desirable location.
The Beitbridge Hotel (Beitbridge) is a hospitality investment that caters to travelers and visitors in the border town of Beitbridge.
These diverse property investments demonstrate NSSA's strategy of diversifying its portfolio across different sectors and geographic areas.
Overall, NSSA's property investment portfolio comprises a total of 111 properties. This includes a variety of assets such as shopping malls, land banks, hospitals, hotels, and infrastructure projects. The portfolio also includes an investment in Dubury Investments, which owns Joina City, a prominent shopping mall in Harare.
Through its property investments, NSSA aims to generate income and contribute to the growth of the economy while also providing social security benefits to its members. The diverse nature of the portfolio helps to mitigate risk and ensure a steady stream of returns for the organization.
