NRZ Pension Fund invests in diverse assets for growth and sustainability
The National Railways of Zimbabwe Pension Fund seeks varied revenue streams across southern Africa and abroad to protect member assets and generate long-term growth, according to chief executive Chipo Hlabangana. The self-administered retirement system, which started operations in October of 1949, prioritizes stable returns through property holdings, stock positions, bonds and selective alternative opportunities.
Real estate comprises roughly 57 percent of fund assets. Property performance has strengthened following renovation work that reduced vacant units and boosted occupancy to approximately 88 percent. Construction of Chisipite Mall in Harare has reached 60 percent completion. The shopping center aims to draw domestic and foreign visitors while tenant recruitment continues for retail, medical and hospitality spaces. Solar panels will be installed on commercial building rooftops nationwide to produce renewable electricity, with surplus energy flowing to regional power networks. Carbon credit documentation aligns with Zimbabwe Carbon Market Authority requirements under the Gold Standard for Global Goals framework.
The fund partnered with Dubai hospitality operator Leva Hotel Group to transform Chester House in Harare into Chester by Leva, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026. International real estate holdings include property in the United Kingdom as part of geographic diversification efforts.
