Expanding its footprint in Africa, BON Hotels is set to open BON Hotel Karibu Kolwezi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in April 2019. The 55-roomed hotel will be the first of its kind for the Lualaba Province of the DRC.
While the DRC has historically been considered one of the most challenging business environments in the world, Guy Stehlik, CEO of BON Hotels, believes that the country 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 is the mineral hub of the DRC and is projected to grow substantially over the next 3 decades. The area’s growing ex-pat and business community is currently serviced with small lodges, private hotels and informal hospitality establishments; BON Hotel Karibu Kolwezi will be the first full-service mid-market hotel in the area, catering to local and international visitors for long and short-term stays. The hotel will include a top-floor penthouse, business centre, meeting rooms, 2 restaurants, a sky bar, swimming pool and gym.
Confirming his positive outlook, Stehlik says: “We can no longer sit back and ignore these opportunities because of perceived challenges. We at BON are realistic about the difficulties we face, yet very excited and positive about the opportunities the country presents. What is more exciting is to be bringing a whole new skill-set and industry to the local community. BON Hotels are adamant about upskilling local talent, providing employment and involving the surrounding communities. Together with the right partners on the ground, we believe that we will make a difference and add tremendous value not only to our stakeholders, but to the community and people of Kolwezi too.”