At Woodlands Romelda, true hospitality extends far beyond providing a peaceful retreat for our guests. It lives in the soil we nurture, the lives we touch, and the vibrant local communities with whom we share this beautiful region. Nestled near the scenic waters of Lake Mutirikwi, our home is deeply interconnected with the surrounding villages of Glenlivet, ZANO Township, and the broader Masvingo district. Our commitment to sustainability isn’t just an environmental practice, it is a promise to grow, support, and thrive alongside the people who make this land so special.
A shared history by the lake.
The history of our surrounding area is rich with culture, transformation, and adaptation. The construction of Lake Mutirikwi (formerly Lake Kyle) in the late 1950s drastically shifted the geography and livelihoods of Masvingo’s rural countryside. As the vast body of water took shape, local communities adjusted to new patterns of farming, fishing, and living. Over the decades, places like ZANO Township grew into essential focal points for community gathering, local commerce, and culture. Understanding this history helps us honour the resilience of the families who have lived here for generations.
Rural life in Glenlivet and ZANO.
Life in rural Zimbabwe carries a unique rhythm, one grounded in tradition, mutual aid, and strength. However, daily life in Glenlivet and ZANO comes with real challenges. Access to consistent grid electricity and clean, reliable water infrastructure often requires creative problem-solving and perseverance. Educational opportunities, while deeply valued by every parent, can also present hardships due to distance and financial constraints. Yet, despite these obstacles, the spirit of unity and hospitality in these communities remains unmatched.
God’s Way farming.
To protect our natural environment and enhance regional food security, the local small-scale farmers embrace conservation agriculture techniques, often known locally as God’s Way farming (Pfumvudza/Intwasa). This methodology focuses on minimal soil disturbance, organic mulching, and precise crop management to maximise yields while restoring soil health: preserving moisture and organic matter through mulching and zero-tillage principles, utilising natural fertilisers and crop rotation, and collaborating with local farmers across the valley.
Careers, not just jobs.
We strongly believe that real empowerment begins with meaningful opportunities. The vast majority of our team at Romelda is hired directly from ZANO, Glenlivet, and surrounding Masvingo villages. Rather than offering just jobs, we strive to build lifelong careers. Our team’s journey is exemplified by internal empowerment and promotion. There are many staff who have started in entry-level, junior positions and through their hard work, dedication, mentorship and skills development, they have risen to oversee entire operational departments across the farm, lodge, and estate management.
Homestead support.
Growth at work should translate directly to an improved quality of life at home. To support our team members in modernising their family residences, Romelda actively assists with logistical and financial backing for homestead improvements: facilitating solar installations for clean, reliable power, assisting in procuring cement, roofing sheets, and structural supplies, and helping families establish clean water access and self-sufficient home infrastructure.
School fees for the next generation.
Children are the foundation of our future. To help remove barriers to quality education, Romelda operates a dedicated school fees support program for our staff’s families. By covering tuition, supplies, and educational expenses, we ensure that the next generation has the tools, support, and encouragement needed to pursue their dreams and uplift Masvingo for years to come.
When you visit Woodlands Romelda, you become part of this ongoing story. Every meal served, every trail walked, and every project undertaken carries a deeper purpose: honouring our history and building a sustainable, empowered, and bright future together with the warm people of Glenlivet and ZANO Township.
