Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
REFRESHING news about the timely return of the Harare International Festival of Arts has brought cheer to the creative community, event organisers and artists.
After being shelved for eight years, the week-long event — famed for attracting international acts across various artistic disciplines — has been welcomed by curators, administrators and artists.
Following the announcement made on Independence Day that HIFA 2026 will run from August 3 to 9 under the theme “Up”, euphoria has since spread throughout the creative community.
Renowned spoken word poet, researcher and writer, Chirikure Chirikure, who previously curated artists in the spoken word category, hailed HIFA’s return as good news for the arts sector.
“We welcome the return of HIFA, which was popular for bringing international acts from various arts genres to Harare,” he said.
“As one of the curators, it was always a marvel to see local acts interacting with international stars. It provides a huge platform for our artists to be watched globally, which is a plus for us.”
Chirikure, who has transformed the literary arts sector, was also glad to have participated in several previous editions.
“I feel proud to have played my part in HIFA, where international acts will be performing under one stage and mixing with locals,” he added.
Similar sentiments were echoed by film-maker, theatre producer, and script-writer Retired Major Special Matarirano, who welcomed HIFA’s return.
“HIFA’s resurrection is a great signpost for arts revival at global standards. HIFA was the zenith for arts and film celebration in Zimbabwe and Africa at large. It has enabled Zimbabwe to put itself on the global map. Hence, its return brings us a lot of hope for the future of the industry,” asserted Matarirano.
An equally excited multi-media specialist, Nico Abote, firmly believes HIFA is more than just a multi-cultural jamboree because it has opened new doors for him.
“HIFA has always been more than just a festival. It’s a celebration of the very best in local, regional, and international arts and culture, from theatre, dance, and music to street performances, spoken word, and visual arts.
“Since 1999, it has played such an important role in supporting artists, building community, and growing Zimbabwe’s creative industry. For many of us, it’s where inspiration happens and unforgettable moments are created,” Abote shared on his social media handles.
Victor Kunonga, who made his debut at HIFA in 2006, was looking forward to the event, which endeared him to fans.
“I was still an upcoming artist when I performed at HIFA in 2006, and I thoroughly enjoyed myself as part of the international festival,” he recalled.
The euphoria surrounding HIFA 2026 comes at a time when local artists have been lamenting the lack of international festivals running for a week, where all genres will be fully represented.
Lack of funding and sponsorship has seen several festivals being shelved, and there were genuine fears that HIFA would be among them.
More excitement came after the organisers announced that HIFA 2027 would be held from April (dates unclear in your text) to 2 May and that the 2028 edition is scheduled for May 1 to 7.
This assurance has brought a big sigh of relief to festival-goers who were madly in love with HIFA.
Founded in 1999, HIFA is undoubtedly one of Africa’s biggest festivals, which has brought international stars to Zimbabwe.
Iconic stars including Hugh Masekela, Youssou N’Dour, and Salif Keita have also graced our shows — an indication that it is more than an event.
Economically, HIFA is also known for boosting the tourism and hospitality sector, which heavily rely on such festivities.
When it folded, organisers cited financial constraints, while Covid-19 further worsened the situation.
Many were now convinced it would never return, but the announcement on Independence Day has given hope to event organisers, festival goers, and other stakeholders in this important festival.
A well-known brand, there were genuine fears HIFA would fail, but it appears they have done their homework, as they announced new dates for its return.
