Malawi’s Tourism and Hotel s Board has awarded Sunbird Mzuzu, Lilongwe and Livingstonia all under Sunbird Tourism the status of two Star and Crossroads Hotel the three Star status.
This comes after the Board approved results of the Licensing and Standards Advisory Committee of the Malawi Star Grading System at its meeting held last month.
The Board also gave Tongole Wilderness Lodge and Mkulumadzi Nature Lodge the Four Star status, while Pumulani Lodge, Mumbo and Domwe Island lodges received the three star status.
According to a joint statement signed by chairperson of the Tourism and Hotels Board, Kwame Phiri, and Director of Tourism, and Secretary of Tourism and Hotels Board, Isaac Katopola, the hotel star grading entails an assessment of all service and non service elements provided at tourism establishments.
“The exercise shows to consumers the property’s commitment to quality service and standards as indicated by the stars,” the statement reads.
The Board adds that the upgrading move ensures that hotels provide services that match the best standards within the region and internationally to enhance competition.
The Board through the Department of Tourism has since said it is committed to upscale the implementation of the grading system in conjunction with the hospitality sector by involving more eligible units in grading programmes.
In total, 11 of the country’s hospitality units have been upgraded following the approved results of Licensing and Standards Advisory Committee of the Malawi Star Grading System.
Last week, Malawi Stock Exchange listed Sunbird Tourism entered into a 10-year contract with African Parks Malawi for management of Thawale Tented Lodge and Mwembezi Restaurant in Majete Wildlife Reserve in Chikwawa.