In Lusaka, the Pamodzi Hotel has long been more than a building; it has been a witness to Zambia’s history, hosting presidents, diplomats, and ordinary citizens alike for over four decades. Located on Church Road, the hotel has served as a center for diplomacy, celebrations, business, and personal milestones since its construction in 1979 by Zambia Engineering and Construction Company Limited (ZECCO), a joint venture between the Zambian government and Yugoslavia’s Energoprojekt Engineering and Contracting Company.
Originally managed by the Indian-based Taj Group as Taj Pamodzi, the hotel quickly became Zambia’s leading five-star property. It hosted numerous heads of state, including former South African President Jacob Zuma, India’s Ram Nath Kovind, Angola’s João Lourenço, Tanzania’s Jakaya Kikwete, and Ethiopia’s Hailemariam Desalegn. Beyond formal events, the hotel has also been central to personal celebrations, from weddings and birthdays to childhood outings and swimming lessons.
Today, the hotel is undergoing its most significant transformation, led by general manager Evelin Botker. Under new majority ownership by UAE-based ASB Hospitality, Pamodzi will be reintroduced as Hyatt Regency Lusaka the Pamodzi. ASB Hospitality specializes in restoring historic hotels across Africa, including Hyatt properties in Harare and Dar es Salaam.
The transformation includes a full renovation of public areas, guest rooms, leisure facilities, and event spaces. A new gym, spa, swimming pool, and outdoor events marquee are planned, alongside extensive refurbishment of the ballroom and conference areas. The project will be completed in phases, with the first phase set to open next summer and the full renovation expected by early 2027.
Alongside physical upgrades, staff will undergo intensive training to meet Hyatt’s international standards and service philosophy. Botker emphasizes that the hotel will provide the same level of service expected at Hyatt properties worldwide, ensuring consistency and quality for both local and international guests.
Despite the modernization, the hotel will retain the Pamodzi name and its heritage. Management plans to collect stories, photographs, and memories from the community, preserving the hotel’s role as a cultural landmark. Botker notes that many locals have personal connections to the hotel, making this archival effort an important tribute.
The arrival of the Hyatt brand is expected to raise Zambia’s profile internationally, attracting global travelers and promoting Lusaka as a key destination. Guests will also benefit from Hyatt’s World of Hyatt loyalty program, offering opportunities to earn and redeem points at thousands of locations worldwide.
Pamodzi Hotel’s transformation represents a balance between history and modernity, preserving its legacy while positioning it as a premier international destination. With upgraded facilities, international standards, and a renewed focus on hospitality, Hyatt Regency Lusaka the Pamodzi is set to reaffirm its status as one of Zambia’s most iconic hotels.