Hilton Lusaka project to cost nearly $100 million as Asmara Holdings backs Zambia expansion

The planned Hilton-branded hotel in Lusaka is set to cost nearly $100 million, forming part of a broader $97 million financing package led by Asmara Holdings Limited. The funding will be extended to Zebra Manufacturing Limited and Future Africa International Trading FZE to support dual developments in Zambia and Djibouti.

The Lusaka investment reflects rising investor confidence in Zambia’s hospitality sector, while a parallel logistics project in Djibouti aims to strengthen regional supply chains.

Hilton Lusaka project gains momentum amid dual investment strategy
The financing package combines two strategic projects: a Hilton-branded hotel in Lusaka and a warehousing facility in Djibouti’s Damerjog Industrial Development Free Trade Zone.

While the Lusaka development targets tourism and business travel growth, the Djibouti project is designed to improve grain storage and logistics infrastructure across the Horn of Africa. Together, the projects are expected to deliver both localized economic benefits and broader regional trade support.

Hilton Lusaka to open in 2027
Branded as Hilton Lusaka Pyramid, the hotel is scheduled to open in 2027 with 211 guest rooms and suites. It will feature multiple dining outlets, including specialty restaurants, an all-day dining venue, a lobby café, and a pool bar.

The development will also include an executive lounge, fitness center, spa, and outdoor swimming pools, alongside more than 4,000 square meters of meeting and event space. This positions the hotel as a major hub for conferences, corporate gatherings, and social events.

Located in Lusaka’s Sunningdale district, near key embassies and government institutions, the hotel will offer proximity to major commercial hubs and Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

Ownership structure and project backing
Zebra Manufacturing Limited is jointly owned by Yemane Berhe Weldeslassie and Daniel Berhe Weldeslassie, each holding a 50% stake.

Meanwhile, Future Africa International Trading FZE is fully owned by Daniel Berhe Weldeslassie, reinforcing his central role across both the hospitality and logistics arms of the investment.

Hilton accelerates African expansion
The Lusaka project comes amid rapid expansion by Hilton across Africa. The group signed a record 29 deals in 2025 across 15 countries and is expected to open more than 100 hotels across the continent between 2026 and 2027.

These developments are projected to create over 20,000 jobs, bringing Hilton’s African footprint to more than 180 hotels trading and in the pipeline. The company continues to expand across both full-service and focused-service brands, targeting key growth markets driven by rising business travel, urbanization, and tourism investment.

What’s next for Zambia’s hospitality sector?
As Hilton Lusaka moves toward its 2027 launch, the project underscores Zambia’s growing position as a regional business and tourism hub.

With increasing competition among global hotel brands and rising demand for high-quality accommodation, the success of large-scale developments like Hilton Lusaka will depend on sustained economic growth, improved connectivity, and continued investment in tourism infrastructure.