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Compagnie Hoteliere et Immobiliere du Congo(CHIC) Announces the Opening of it’s second hotel, Novotel Lubumbashi in the Commercial & Industrial Centre of Congo

Published: 10 June 2024

Compagnie Hoteliere et Immobiliere du Congo(CHIC) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of Novotel Lubumbashi, the second Novotel hotel in the Democratic Republic of Congo, located in the vibrant city of Lubumbashi. This 120-room hotel offers an array of modern accommodations and exceptional services in one of the country's key commercial and industrial hubs.

Novotel Lubumbashi provides a variety of room options, including standard, executive, and suite categories, all designed with contemporary aesthetics and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel's design focuses on creating adaptable spaces with natural tones and raw materials, ensuring a welcoming and multifunctional environment for all guests.

Situated in the rapidly growing Golf residential area, the hotel boasts stunning views of Lake Kipopo and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Luano International Airport, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers.

Guests can enjoy a unique culinary journey with three distinct dining venues. Chai, a lively café, offers a selection of imported teas and local brands in an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing. Brasserie Kipopo, the all-day dining restaurant, delivers a mix of American and local cuisines with live cooking shows throughout the day. In the evenings, Xpressions transforms into a dynamic lounge bar, featuring Amapiano music, creative cocktails, and a variety of canapés.

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel's modern meeting facilities, equipped with ALL CONNECT technology for seamless hybrid meetings. For relaxation, guests can visit the N'fitness gym or unwind at the swimming pool, which provides panoramic views of Lubumbashi and Lake Kipopo.

Novotel Lubumbashi introduces the Accor Key digital access solution, allowing guests to use their mobile devices for room entry and elevator access, integrated with the ALL – Accor Live Limitless loyalty program app. The Welcome In service offers a streamlined check-in process at Luano International Airport, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Rahim Dhrolia

Partner

CHIC


Rahim Dhrolia, Partner at CHIC, expressed his enthusiasm: "The Novotel Lubumbashi has been a dream come true thanks to the vision and dedication of CHIC's partners. This hotel marks a significant achievement in our commitment to expanding CHIC's presence and providing world-class hospitality in the DRC. We are thrilled to welcome guests to what will become the flagship hotel of Lubumbashi."

Willy Walter Youbessi, General Manager of Novotel Lubumbashi, added: "Our hotel sets a new standard in Lubumbashi with its exceptional services. We eagerly look forward to welcoming both local and international guests to our contemporary, inviting, and family-friendly atmosphere."

Suhail Bhatia

Director of Asset Management

CHIC

Suhail Bhatia, Director of Asset Management at CHIC, remarked: "This launch represents a major step forward in our growth plan. We are eager to play a significant role in advancing the hospitality industry in Lubumbashi and the surrounding regions."

CHIC, a gold sponsor at the upcoming Africa Hospitality Investment Forum (AHIF) 2024 in Namibia, will unveil its future plans at the forum, showcasing its continued commitment to the development of the African hospitality industry.

About CHIC

CHIC emerges as the leading force in hotel development, deeply entrenched in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Established in 2017, CHIC embodies a visionary initiative led by dedicated entrepreneurs rooted in the DRC, boasting diverse business interests across real estate & construction, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, mining, IT, agriculture, fast fashion retail, branded restaurants, and cosmetics. Driven by an unwavering commitment to national progress, economic prosperity, and community well-being, CHIC's founders exemplify a steadfast dedication to fostering sustainable growth and development in the hospitality industry in DRC.

CHIC's collaboration with Accor marks a significant milestone, with agreements in place to develop a total of five hotels—comprising three Novotel, one IBIS Styles, and one IBIS—in four cities, totalling 660 keys. These cutting-edge establishments, meticulously crafted by CHIC, promise world-class hospitality services to guests. Notably, the inaugural Novotel Kinshasa La Gombe welcomed its first guests in September 2023, with the remaining hotels slated for completion by the end of 2025