Zimpapers Logo

Sipepisiwe Moyo and Shingai Dhlamini                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     THE Bulawayo Club, a unique building situated at the heart of Bulawayo, stands as one of the oldest working museums in the city. It carries the rich history of Zimbabwe through its art and sports artefacts. 

Bulawayo Club’s rich history

Conveniently located just 20 minutes from Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Airport and 45 minutes from Matopos National Park, the club is a beacon of heritage and culture.

Established in 1895, a year after modern Bulawayo was founded, the club originally served as a social hub for members of the armed forces led by Cecil John Rhodes. Today, it has evolved into an ideal venue for business events, open to both club members and the public. It boasts exclusive accommodation and a world-class restaurant and bar.

Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by a large mahogany staircase leading to the club’s upper levels, with the option of taking the original vintage lift. The ground floor welcomes guests with the captivating sight of antique furniture, still fresh and intact from the day the club first opened its doors.

Bulawayo Club’s rich history

The walls are adorned with artworks dating back to the colonial era, and the conference rooms are named after influential historical figures, including Jairos Jiri, the first black member of the club. Another fascinating feature is the Rugby Memorabilia, which was relocated from Hartsfield to the Bulawayo Club in May 2015.

Despite its spacious look and tight security, which may seem intimidating to some, the Bulawayo Club welcomes everyone regardless of race. Manager Brian Masenda stressed in an interview that the club is not just for whites, as many might think, but is a home for all professionals who appreciate tranquillity.

Bulawayo Club’s rich history

According to him, the Bulawayo Club is more than just a building; it is a living testament to the city’s history and a vibrant part of its present. Whether for business or leisure, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination in Bulawayo.

“The club welcomes everyone even if they are not club members but we are very strict on dress code and personality. Our dress code of choice is casual and smart and we would like to keep up the standard.

“We have first rate accommodation in a selection of suites, standard double and single rooms all with DStv and free Wi-Fi at the disposal of our clients. We also have two working bars, a historical library for bookworms and a billiard room which is a fully equipped snooker room,” he said.

Bulawayo Club rich history -Kitchen

Masenda elaborated on the rugby memorabilia that adorns the walls and floors, detailing the events that led to the Bulawayo Club becoming its custodian.

“The Hartsfield Trust was initiated in 2002 with the sole purpose of preserving the memorabilia, in May 2015 the trustees embarked on logging and removal of the memorabilia from Hartsfield to The Bulawayo Club.

“As the club has been revamping their facilities as part of a Bulawayo Historic Museum and with this understanding, have offered an independent room adequate to replicate and display the Hartsfield Trust Memorabilia.

“The memorabilia can be viewed day or night during the week with the added benefit of high security on offer at the club. The relocation and revamping of the memorabilia has received full support from all rugby enthusiasts with offers of personal donations and memorabilia being received worldwide,” he said.

Bulawayo Club

He added that the venue frequently hosts business and corporate events, and they are looking forward to adding entertainment to their calendar of events.

“This is a place rich in arts and culture and we run commercial corporate events thus we are mapping a way in which we can include entertainment at the club,” he said.

Masenda concluded by stating that the Bulawayo Club is open to everyone. Prospective members must have two sponsors and a proper introduction from an existing member.