Harare — RAINBOW Tourism Group is set to buy two hotels in the Copperbelt province of Zambia as it spreads its tentacles across the continent.

The tourism group is already managing Savoy Hotel in Ndola, the second largest city of Zambia and Edilburvh Hotel in Kitwe.

An official said while the group has secured some management contracts, plans were at an advanced stage to buy the two businesses.

"Valuations are underway," said an official who requested anonymity.

Savoy Hotel is a 156 roomed three-star hotel with conference facilities while Edilburvh Hotel is a 76 roomed two three star hotel.

The province covers the mineral-rich Copperbelt. It is the backbone of the Zambian economy.

The province adjoins Katanga province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, which is similarly mineral-rich. Other main cities in the region include Mafulira, Luanshya, Chingola and Chililabombwe. Roads and rail links extend north into the Congo.