Online Reporter
Blessings Chidakwa
Senior Reporter
FIRST Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has underscored the role of culture and the arts as key pillars of national development and identity, saying cultural platforms are critical in empowering youth, promoting social cohesion and shaping responsible future leaders.
The country’s Culture and Heritage Ambassador said this yesterday while speaking at the two-day French and Francophone songs contest hosted by the French International School in Harare, where she described music as a powerful tool for unity and self-expression.
This year’s edition of the contest brought together 660 children from 44 schools from different parts of the country.
Learners from different schools brought French music to life, delivering vibrant, creative performances that lit up the stage with energy and expression, much to the delight and applause of many.
Dr Mnangagwa said initiatives that bring together young people through music and language play an important role in nurturing confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of identity among the country’s future leaders.
“Music is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. It has the power to unite people, to tell stories, and to preserve heritage. Through song, we communicate emotions, values, and aspirations.
“By engaging with Francophone music, our young people are not only learning a language, but are also immersing themselves in a rich cultural tradition that connects them to a global community,” she said.
The First Lady said the event went beyond entertainment, serving as a platform for creativity, intercultural dialogue, and youth development, as the values instilled through such initiatives would help shape responsible future leaders capable of contributing positively on the global stage.
“This occasion is not merely a musical competition; it brings together young people in the spirit of creativity, unity, and intercultural dialogue,” she said.
“With the inculcation of these values among our young global citizens, we are confident that, as leaders of the future, there shall be responsible global leaders and citizens.”
Dr Mnangagwa described music as a universal language that transcends borders and generations, allowing young people to connect with diverse cultures, while expressing their own identities.
“Through song, we communicate emotions, values, and aspirations. By engaging with Francophone music, our young people are immersing themselves in a rich cultural tradition that connects them to a global community,” she said.
Drawing from her experiences across the country, the First Lady said the arts continue to transform lives.
“Through my various outreach programmes across Zimbabwe, I have witnessed firsthand how the arts, including music, dance, and storytelling, can transform lives. They build confidence, foster discipline, and provide a platform for self-expression.
“This is why initiatives such as this song contest are so important. They provide young people with an opportunity to shine, develop their talents, and engage positively with their peers,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa also highlighted her work in promoting education, culture, and social development, including through the Angel of Hope Foundation, which continues to uplift communities and empower young people, particularly girls.
“My patronage reflects a broader national vision that recognises culture and the arts as powerful instruments for social cohesion and international engagement,” she said.
The First Lady also underscored the importance of preserving Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, pointing to the Nhanga/Gota/Ixhiba mentorship model as a key initiative that instils discipline, moral values, and cultural identity among young people.
“Through the Nhanga/Gota concept, we impart life skills, discipline, and cultural identity, nurturing well-rounded individuals who are conscious of their role in society,” she said.
“In many respects, this song contest embodies similar ideals. It nurtures talent, instils confidence, encourages discipline, and celebrates identity through artistic expression.”
Addressing the contestants, Dr Mnangagwa praised their courage and encouraged them to continue pursuing their passions with dedication and excellence.
“You are all winners. You are not only showcasing your talent but also serving as ambassadors of cultural exchange and friendship,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa said such initiatives play a key role in promoting cultural diplomacy, linguistic diversity, and youth empowerment, while strengthening the enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and the Francophone world.
The First Lady commended the French International School for its commitment to academic excellence and intercultural engagement, saying platforms that allow students to express themselves in different languages help nurture global citizens.
“By creating a platform where young people can express themselves through music in the French language, the school is nurturing global citizens who appreciate diversity and contribute meaningfully to international understanding,” she said.
Turning to international relations, the First Lady said cultural platforms such as the contest complement formal diplomacy by fostering people-to-people connections, particularly among the youth.
“Our two countries continue to deepen cooperation in various sectors, including education, culture, agriculture, climate action, and development.
“Cultural platforms such as this one are essential in complementing formal diplomatic relations, as they foster people-to-people connections and mutual appreciation among our citizens, particularly the youth,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa recalled her engagement with France’s First Lady, Brigitte Macron, during UNESCO Africa Week, where they exchanged views on advancing cultural diplomacy and empowering women and young people.
“That engagement reaffirmed our shared commitment to promoting education, preserving cultural identity, and strengthening international cooperation,” she said.
The First Lady said Zimbabwe’s participation in global platforms reflects its commitment to upholding human dignity, justice, and cooperation, adding that cultural events play a role in advancing these shared values.
Dr Mnangagwa also commended the organisers and partners for successfully hosting the event, saying their efforts contribute to strengthening cultural diplomacy and international cooperation.
“Let us continue to build bridges of friendship, understanding and cooperation through culture, education and the arts,” she said.
French Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Paul-Bertrand Barets, who officially opened the two-day French and Francophone Songs Contest 2026 during Francophone Week, said this year’s edition should be marked by artistic excellence, fair competition and forging of lasting friendships between Zimbabwe and the Francophone world.
“The French language is not only a vehicle of artistic expression but also a global instrument of communication and cooperation. It is today the fourth most widely spoken language in the world.
“As we celebrate Francophone Week, let us remember that cultural exchange builds durable bridges between peoples,” he said.
Ambassador Barets said Francophone Week is marked by cultural activities that strengthen ties between nations, urging students to perform with confidence, saying their voices carry messages of friendship, unity, and hope.
“In March, Francophone Week marks a period of films, concerts, exhibitions, conferences, and shared conviviality that enrich our community and strengthen ties across nations,” he said.
Ambassador Barets paid tribute to the First Lady for gracing the event, commending her commitment to children’s welfare, education, and the promotion of culture and social cohesion.
“Your Excellency, your steadfast commitment to the welfare and education of children, and your tireless promotion of culture and social cohesion, lend exceptional moral authority to this gathering and provide an inspiring example to our young people,” he said.
Ambassador Barets also acknowledged the staff of the French International School of Harare, the Embassy of France in Zimbabwe, the Alliance Française, and partners for making the event possible.
He commended teachers and school teams for their dedication and thanked parents, sponsors, and partners for their support.
Among the participating schools were EFH Nursery School, Celebration International School, Country Stables School, Millennial Junior School, Chivaraidze Primary School, Nattie Junior Borrowdale School, Rainbow Junior School, Petra College Junior, Royal Comfort Junior School, and EFH Primary School.
Also taking part were The Grange Christian School, Hilbright Science College, B & P Study Centre Primary, Ridgeway Primary (t/a Nattie Junior School), Regisbridge Private School, Lady Enereta Primary School, Otilfield Preparatory School, Rydings Prep School, and Errymaple Junior School.
