Radisson Hospitality is adding a new territory to its expanding portfolio with the signing of Park Inn by Radisson Lusaka Longacres in Zambia.

Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion in Africa is no small business as its portfolio in the continent already consists of 83 hotels and more than 17,500 rooms in operation and under development.

In the Longacres suburb of Lusaka, the capital and the largest city of Zambia, its latest property will rise, consisting of 136 rooms and suites along with an all-day dining restaurant and bar. For hosting MICE events, there will be a Meetings & Events area that will include one ballroom, three meeting rooms and a boardroom, as well as a fully-equipped gym.

The Park Inn by Radisson Lusaka Longacres is set to open in 2020.

The hotel will be situated in a prime location within the city’s concentration of embassies, diplomatic missions and United Nations (UN) offices. It will form part of a mixed-use development, including a 9,000 sqm shopping mall, which – along with an increasing number of businesses – will support the hotel in establishing itself as a destination in Lusaka.

Elie Younes, executive vice president & chief development officer, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We’re delighted to bring Park Inn by Radisson to Zambia, where tourism is growing. Having successfully operated in Zambia since 2012 with Radisson Blu, we now look forward to introducing Park Inn by Radisson, our upper midscale brand in this emerging market.”

Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF) owns the signed property and it has released an official statement regarding its partnership with the global hotel chain: “We are delighted to partner with the Radisson Hotel Group in introducing the Park Inn by Radisson brand to Lusaka.

“Together, we believe we will create a must-stay destination hotel in Lusaka, which will provide individuals and families with a simple yet memorable value option for their travels to Zambia. This hotel will be located in one of the prime areas of Lusaka, in close proximity to the UN offices.

“We look forward to a long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship with the group.”