**Abstract**

The purpose of this chapter is to describe the experiences, challenges and lessons learnt from developing a new private online higher education institution in Zimbabwe. Using a case study of Unicaf University Zimbabwe, the chapter highlights the perils and promises of establishing a private, independent, online university, the first of its kind in the country. The chapter traces the various stages involved in registration, licensing and accreditation of Unicaf University by Zimbabwe Investment Development Authority and the local national accreditation regulator. The chapter describes the uniqueness of Unicaf University Zimbabwe, opportunities or promises that it offers the higher education sector and the challenges or perils that were encountered in the early stages on its road towards establishment in Zimbabwe. The chapter concludes that private online universities are essential for institutional differentiation and the introduction of real competition in Zimbabwe's higher education landscape.

**Keywords:** accreditation, distance learning, higher education, online, e-learning, private, regulator, Zimbabwe
