By Staff Reporter
Businessman Terry William Kelly has lost control of the famous Chewore Lodge after the Supreme Court ruled that his 25-year lease with Zimbabwe National Parks (ZimParks) was invalid.
The court agreed with a previous High Court decision that the lease was never properly signed by the Environment Minister, as required by law. Despite the document bearing a signature, the former minister denied signing it, and Kelly’s team could not prove she had approved it.
Kelly, 73, has run the lodge and campsite for 15 years and invested millions into the internationally known safari destination. The ruling means he is now expected to be evicted and will likely lose his entire investment.
The legal battle has been long and difficult for Kelly, who was even arrested in 2023 over a disputed US$50 camera, a case that was later thrown out by the courts. His arrest involved a risky nighttime boat trip and an abrupt transfer to Harare, despite local prosecutors refusing to pursue charges.
This landmark Supreme Court decision underscores serious concerns about investment security and property rights in Zimbabwe, showing how legal technicalities can override years of business operation and financial commitment.
