By Dorrothy Moyo | ZANU PF President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa officiated the renaming ceremony of Meikles Hotel to Hyatt Regency Hotel in Harare on Monday. This announcement marks a significant shift in the landscape of Zimbabwe’s hospitality industry, with the iconic Meikles Hotel undergoing extensive renovations to emerge under a new brand.

While the rebranding signals a modernization effort and a step towards attracting international visitors, it has also sparked widespread outrage among thousands of Zimbabweans. Meikles Hotel, steeped in history and nostalgia, holds a special place in the hearts of many locals, serving as a landmark of the country’s heritage for decades. The decision to discard the familiar name in favor of a global brand like Hyatt Regency has been met with skepticism and resistance from those who view it as an erasure of Zimbabwean identity and history.

The timing of the renaming ceremony coincides with Zimbabwe’s preparations to host the 44th SADC Heads of State Summit and the upcoming 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, where the hotel is expected to play a significant role in accommodating dignitaries and international cricket teams. Proponents of the rebranding argue that aligning with a prestigious international brand like Hyatt will elevate the country’s tourism profile and attract high-end clientele, ultimately boosting the economy.

However, amidst the fanfare surrounding the unveiling of the Hyatt Regency plaque, questions linger about the implications of this decision on the local community and economy. Critics argue that the rebranding represents a shift towards prioritizing foreign investment and catering to the elite, neglecting the needs and sentiments of ordinary Zimbabweans. The renovation and rebranding process, while promising a fresh look and modern amenities, risk sidelining local businesses and workers who have long been part of Meikles Hotel’s legacy.

Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the transparency and accountability surrounding the decision-making process leading to the rebranding. The lack of consultation with the broader community and the perceived haste in implementing the changes have fueled suspicions of ulterior motives behind the rebranding initiative.

As Zimbabwe navigates its path towards economic revitalization and global integration, the rebranding of Meikles Hotel to Hyatt Regency serves as a microcosm of the broader tensions between tradition and progress, local identity and global influence. While the move holds the promise of ushering in a new era of luxury hospitality and international recognition, it also underscores the complexities and challenges inherent in balancing the aspirations of a nation with the demands of a rapidly changing world.