K5bn Sunbird Waterfront hotel opens May

Malawi Stock Exchange (MSE)-listed Sunbird Tourism plc says the construction of the first phase of its new beach resort in Salima is on course and the hotel will open in May.

The 42-roomed hotel, named Waterfront, is located adjacent to Sunbird Livingstonia Beach and has all rooms facing the lake.

The hotel chain’s chief executive officer Yusuf Olela said in a statement made available to Business News that the investment in this property was driven by market demand for a leisure product that will deliver memorable experiences for both individuals and families.

“We are excited that soon we will be opening this magnificent resort as part of our expansion plan and bringing to our most discerning guests a taste of luxury and splendor for both business and leisure travellers,” he said.

Olela said the hotel chain’s strategic focus on product development is to ensure that it positions Sunbird as a preferred destination for international and domestic travellers and ensure that they are getting value for money.

He said the hotel is positioned to be Sunbird’s premier beach resort and offer an unrivaled luxury experience on the shores of Lake Malawi.

The resort’s composition includes 10 suites, four family rooms, two accessible rooms and 26 deluxe rooms, all fitted with modern amenities and facilities, redefining luxury and fitting international standards.

Tourism contributes about seven percent to the country’s gross domestic product and accounts for six percent of the country’s total employment, according to the National Statistical Office.

Meanwhile, government through the Malawi2063 has also indicated that it  intends to adopt an integrated approach to tourism service provision.

Sunbird Hotels and Resorts has eight properties, including four city hotels in all three regions of Malawi.