BON Hotels adds new DRC development to its Africa portfolio

14 Dec 2018

BON Hotels have extended their African presence with the addition of its Karibu Kolwezi hotel. Situated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the 55-roomed hotel, which is scheduled to open in April next year, will be the first of its kind for the Lualaba Province of the DRC.

Image Supplied.

Despite its wealth of natural resources, the DRC francophone country has been left impoverished by corruption, mismanagement and conflict. However, Guy Stehlik, CEO of BON Hotels, believes that the DRC will become the economic powerhouse that it deserves to be. “Green shoots and investment will come with political stability. The DRC is underdeveloped and we have no doubt that the country is primed for international investment and significant growth.”

Kolwezi in itself, as the mineral hub of the DRC, is projected to grow substantially over the next three decades. Currently, small lodges, private hotels and informal hospitality establishments are serving the ever-growing expat and international community who are working and conducting business in the area.

Full-service mid-market hotel

The Karibu Kolwezi hotel will be the first full-service mid-market hotel catering to local and international visitors, both short- and long stay. Keeping fire, life, safety and security top of mind, the hotel will also include a top-floor penthouse, a business centre and meeting rooms, two restaurants, a sky bar, swimming pool and gym.

BON Hotels’ pipeline of projects within the DRC include Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.

Stehlik adds: “We can no longer sit back and ignore opportunities in Africa because of perceived challenges. We at BON are realistic about the difficulties we face, yet positive about the opportunities the DRC presents. We believe that we will make a difference and add value not only to our stakeholders, but to the community and people of Kolwezi too.”