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Invitation: Easter Fayre at Rhodes Nyanga Museum on Saturday 4th April from 10am-4pm
Gill’s Legacy Shines Brightly at Worlds View
Gill Honeyman, who very sadly left us too soon in 2024, was an extraordinary person who was completely passionate about the NTZ . The NTZ was delighted that, in 2009, she agreed to manage the Worlds View site and sit on the Executive Council. Gill was a super talented person and all her hard work and dedication led to so many innovative and unique improvements being undertaken at the site, so much so she transformed it and it became the leading tourism site in Nyanga and the most visited NTZ property in the country.
Gill was highly respected and admired by everyone that met her.
During the 20 years that Gill managed the site, as a volunteer, she worked extremely hard, her foresight was next to none and her passion for expanding the visitor experience on the hill was infectious. She would always have a project or two on the go. And her legacy shines brightly on today.
Gill Honeyman relaxing after a hard day’s work at Worlds View
Despite all of the challenges that the she faced including fires, tree cutting, soil erosion, gale force winds, invasion by exotics such as pine and wattle, hailstones and stray cattle Gill and her very dedicated team kept the site in immaculate condition. The picnic areas that she built are being enjoyed daily by very appreciative visitors as they sit in front of the magnificent scenery and the gardens that have something of interest growing at all times of year. Gill built a visitor’s centre by the front gate of the site and organised a series of changing interesting displays at the centre such as the story of the construction of the Connemara area and the flora and fauna of the locality.
Naturally the ‘Gill Honeyman’ art gallery is still attracting much interest and most visitors are surprised and impressed to find an art gallery on the top of a mountain making it the highest in the country. Gill formed an association with the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (Mutare branch) and held several successful exhibitions to promote Zimbabwean artists. The NGZ continued to allow her to exhibit their artists’ works and as a result, many sales were achieved on behalf of our young Zimbabwean artists.
Gill supported local carvers and sculptures and a Women’s carpet making enterprise by allowing them access to site and sell their hand made products. She created a relationship with the Froggy Farm and Kiosk in Juliasdale that resulted in them delivering a converted and refurbished horse box, known as the ‘Coffee Box’ where visitors could relax a welcome hot beverage and a delicious snack.
Over her time Gill hosted a great deal of visitors: international, regional and locally and Presidents including His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe, His Excellency Dr, Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana, His Excellency Surgangel Whipps Jr., of the Republic of Palau and delegations from various countries hosted by the President’s Office, including The Marshall Islands and Equatorial Guinea, and other high ranking dignitaries with grace and knowing exactly the correct protocol’s to observe. She hosted the local Chief Hata (Edward Chingamere) who shared fireside stories about his father, and his father before, had passed down the generations, of tribal battles and sieges, that took place along the Nyanga escarpment many years ago.
His Excellency the President, of the Republic of Zimbabwe Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa signing the Visitor’s Book at World’s View
Afterwards His Excellency was presented with a carved stone Pangolin by Gill with the First Lady in attendance. His Excellency said that he was delighted to receive the sculpture which was hand crafted locally in Nyanga.
Left to right:
Mr Godfrey Koti: Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Gill Honeyman: National Trust Council, His Excellency President of the Republic of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi, The First Lady and Mrs Oppah Muchinguri: Ministry of Defence
Her understanding of environmental issues was deep and she was committed to protecting not only the Worlds View site but also the greater Connemara area. She organised scientific surveys collecting various ecological data from the area in and around the NTZ Worlds View area to firstly act as a baseline, secondly to become an aid the management of the area and thirdly to create a database of ecological resources relevant to the Worlds View area for posterity. Gill personally, with courage and strength, challenged any negative incidents and developments in the fragile and unique basin area.
She ignited a special relationship with the famous Kirstenbosh Botanical Gardens in South Africa which led to them donating protea seedlings. Gill designed and made ‘The Protea Garden’ for the precious seedlings and over the years it became well established and is enjoyed by all the visitors: human and bird life at the site.
The Protea Garden was expanded by the creation of the ‘Helen Hyslop Kopje’ in memory of the late Mrs Helen Hyslop who was a Council member for more than 26 years, it nestles adjacent to the vibrant and highly colorful proteas.
Working alongside Mr Rob Burrett the Archeologist, Gill assisted in unearthing several archeological ruin sites on Mount Nyamutoro (World’s View Mountain) a short way up the scenic walk to the rear of the Sculptor’s Gazebo and other sites closer to the summit where there are other and more extensive ruins. Excited visitors today walk in the footsteps of their ancestors and see, touch and feel the cultural history in the stone. Her forward thinking resulted in an added attraction for visitors and proudly promotes Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
Gill created another magical spot at the hill: a wonderful bird hide which is very cleverly nestled into the natural cliff face. It is a very popular spot for those wishing for privacy and shelter from the natural elements, whilst taking in the spectacular scenery and the ever-present birds of prey
The Hide from the outside
The Hide from the inside
Gill’s drive and determination led to her to tirelessly support two other NTZ properties: the Historical Museum situated in Nyanga National Park and Murahwa’s Hill in Mutare. Nothing was too much trouble and she would assist with funding and supplying flora from her own home to Murawah’s Hill taking many journeys there and back. Her energy was boundless and she was a member of the Working Party for La Rochelle in Penhalonga and generously gave of her time and resources to support the property.
Gill very kindly hosted the 60th birthday of the NTZ on the hill with great aplomb, with beautiful protea flowers, a full programme, banners, hot food, drinks, speeches, presents, cake and the first public viewing of the NTZ 60th Birthday video, introducing all the NTZ Sites throughout Zimbabwe. It was well a very well attended function!
Gill was always very positive and modest about her role and work on the hill and her legacy; the jewel in Nyanga, will be experienced and cherished by many generations to come.
The last bed that Gill planted
The same bed some 9 months later
In July 2024 a special tribute to Gill, who was a very special person, was proudly hung in the ‘Gillian Honeyman Art Gallery’.
In addition to the tribute plaque a stone bench was built on the spot where Gill enjoyed hundreds of stunning worlds view sunsets, marveling at the changing colours of the evening sky.
Visitors relaxing and enjoying the ‘Gill Honeyman’ Bench
Their magnificent view!
Gill your Legacy shines brightly!
News from Worlds View January 2026
Annually, World’s view this property is consistently rated 5 star on 98% of google business ratings. This is no surprise as you can sit above the clouds and birds and gaze down from one of the highest points in Zimbabwe across the central plateau almost a kilometre below. The view is of a land of mystery, of peace and of extreme beauty and it seems endless.
Mount Nyamatoro dominating the skyline behind
The bird hide continues to be very popular with visitors.
We are eagerly awaiting a new treasure. The ground staff are busy clearing vegetation around an archaeological ruins site that was previously uncovered. Once the work is completed they will become a new attraction at the view.
Tony Martin, Geologist, is almost finished putting together a geological display which should opened by March 2026, stay connected for more upadates.
News from Nyanga Museum January 2026
Under the broad theme of Zimbabwean Heroe’s the museum designed a series of posters. There will be subgroups of persons ranging from politicians, musicians, sports men and women, chiefs etc. Each poster has a picture and four or five facts about the person shown. This dovetails with the demand of the new school Heritage Curriculum. The posters are displayed in the Museum.
We would very like to extend our deep appreciation for all the work that Nathan Machara, an intern from Bindura University, has contributed to the museum. Nathan was with us from September 2024 to July 2025, we wish you good luck with continuing your studies.
A successful combined Museum Fair and Garden Club Show was held on Easter Saturday.
The Museum provided the stalls to enable the sale of local crafts and farm produce and the Garden Club ran a Flower Show. The proceeds were shared between the museum and the garden club.
Traditional Music Festival cultural dance performance capturing vibrant energy and the visitors spirit.
Blossoming beauty, shared joy! The flower festival was a real treat alongside the Museum fair held at the Nyanga Historical Exhibition October 2025
Backpackers from Australia visited the Rhodes Nyanga Historical Exhibition in June 2025. Thank you very much guys, we loved hosting you, safe travels.
News from Mabukawene January 2026
The property is open and available to educational, and specialist societies such as historical, ornithological, arthropod and nature groups and museums. Birdlife of Zimbabwe had an interesting and fruitful field visit.
Maintenance of the property continues following the rains. This was a big task cutting the thick bush grass, progress was good and the pathways were cleared. The fire breaks were also cutback.
The highly invasive lantana vegetation was cut and regrowth sprayed. Removing the actual roots manually was a massively tedious and time consuming task especially having to cover over 20 acres. An investment will be made to purchase a tool to do this, more brush cutters will also be bought as the rains have commenced.
On a good note, whilst clearing was completed, a number of colourful aloes were uncovered around the property together with some beautiful wild orchids.
News from Murahwa’s Hill January 2026
Murahwa’s Hill is a natural conservation area of 153 acres of great biodiversity entrusted to the NTZ by the Mutare City Council.
The newly built frontage perimeter wall put in by Jackson Njunga is looking strong and secure.
Everyone is excited and very much looking forward to the opening of the long awaited interpretative, /education centre, toilets and a new perimeter fence at Murawha’s Hill. The property was always dearly supported by the late Helen Hyslop who joined the Council in 1993: her dedication to the NTZ was exemplary.
The ‘Helen Hyslop Fund’ was created at the bequest from the Hyslop Estate. The fund is to assist in building the new interpretative, education centre in honour of the late Helen Hyslop. Once all the details have been finalised the construction will commence after the rainy season circa April 2026.
Lloyd, the caretaker, has been cutting walking paths on the hill, making clearings for picnic sites and planted gardens at the entrance of the site where the Centre will be positioned.
Three to four Picnic benches will be installed in the next few months.
Electrical wiring and security lighting have been installed at the caretaker’s house.
Painting will commence shortly. Lloyd Chidondo the caretaker who commenced in March 2024 has done an outstanding job to date.
An exercise is planned to identify and label the trees at the property
The clearing of pathways and the removal of alien plants continues.
News from Organic Africa January 2026
Organic Africa has demonstrated consistent commitment to the La Rochelle Centre, not only by maintaining the lease agreement in full compliance with the terms set out by the NTZ, but also by continuing to invest strategically and operationally into the site. La Rochelle is a hub for sustainable agriculture, ecological regeneration, and community-based learning.
They are taking the opportunity to restore, demonstrate, and disseminate sustainable land use in Zimbabwe and their agricultural operations are aligned with regenerative principles, and strong collaboration with key stakeholders.
Three fields are actively under stinging nettle cultivation, ensuring continuity of production and income.
Stinging nettle ready to harvest with cattle in the background as part of the soil regeneration approach
The remaining fields are currently under regeneration to rebuild soil health following years of intensive cropping. High-density rotational grazing with cattle is being implemented. Supported by electric fencing, this practice enhances nutrient cycling and strengthens soil microbiology.
The pack shed is operational, processing herbs from current fields and supporting quality assurance systems. Organic Africa have begun producing biochar which will play a key role in their regenerative plan. The biochar is intended for compost enrichment and field application, increasing carbon sequestration and soil fertility
News from La Rochelle Country House January 2026
We have some very exciting news to share with you! You can now travel to La Rochelle much faster and easier with a ‘fly in and switch off and soak it all up’ brand new service that has just been launched and available with Air Zimbabwe. The perfect escape where luxury meets tranquility! For bookings please contact: 08688 007 303 and +263 714 610803
Reservations: reservations@larochellecountryhouse.net
The extensive grounds and landscapes of La Rochelle are looking magnificent. The ground staff have been working tirelessly to keep them in such a great condition especially for your delight, the array of colours is glorious.
A new fresh, contemporary style conference/breakaway space has been created.
The floor of the dining room has been renovated and looking super smart.
You can reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your mind and body on the scenic hiking trails that were recently added to.
The beauty spa is using locally produced organic products for all the treatments. We look forward to welcoming you very soon.
INTO Tropical Gardens Award December 2026
Exciting news: A new forum for Heritage, Horticulture and Hope: INTO Tropical Gardens
We are thrilled to announce the formation of a new International National Trusts Organisation (INTO) Community of Practice focused on Tropical Gardens. A vibrant, cross-continental initiative bringing together INTO members who are passionate about gardens, climate resilience and cultural heritage.
This new group emerged from a rich and inspiring virtual meeting held in March 2025, where members from Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Malaysia, the Maldives and St Helena shared stories of their landscapes, challenges and aspirations. From desert parks to rainforest sanctuaries, each site is unique – but all are united by a shared commitment to sustainability, community engagement and the preservation of tropical biodiversity. See https://www.into.org/introducing-into-tropical-gardens/
The idea was sparked by Soham Kacker, plant ecologist and horticulturist who is the Curator of Living Collections at the Lunuganga Trust, at the gardens of Geoffrey Bawa Trust in Sri Lanka https://geoffreybawa.com who saw the potential for collaboration among INTO members working in tropical environments. The group identified common themes:
- Climate change adaptation and resilience
- Shared colonial legacies and heritage
- Urban green space and community outreach
- Revitalisation of native and ethnobotanical plant knowledge
Participants have expressed a strong desire to learn from one another, share best practices and explore how gardens can be tools for education, healing and cultural revival.
INTO have just granted funds for this new network and the NTZ is proud to announce that we have been selected to host one or two colleagues in Zimbabwe.
This is a fantastic opportunity for the NTZ to host our INTO colleagues and to showcase the work that is happening here. Watch this space for further details on this cross cultural project.
USE NUMBER: 0775 907 595