Hundreds throng Africa Unity Square

Unity Square to witness the traditional ceremony.
The ceremony started at State House at around 11 am where the Head of State and Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces President Mugabe, who was accompanied by the First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe had a photo session.

President Mugabe, who was led by ZRP Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Police Mounted Unit.
The mounted unit, comprising eight female riders and their 24 male counterparts, was led by one senior officer and two junior officers.

President Mugabe was then driven to the Parliament Building in a black vintage Rolls Royce with the ZRP Mounted Unit in tow.
The President’s colourful entourage which drove through Josiah Tongogara Avenue before it turned into Sam Nujoma Street attracted hordes of on lookers.

People who could not make it on to the streets were perched on balconies to catch a glimpse of the entourage.
Wild cheering and ululation greeted President Mugabe’s motorcade as it turned into Nelson Mandela Avenue towards Parliament Building.

His arrival was greeted with Chimurenga songs in praise of the Head of State and Government.
The Zimbabwe National Army band played the national anthem, which was accompanied by a 21-gun salute and a fly-past in diamond formation by Air Force of Zimbabwe helicopters.
President Mugabe then inspected a guard of honour mounted by the Presidential Guard. He was accompanied by Zimbabwe Defence Forces commander General Constantine Chiwenga.

Legislators led by Speaker of Parliament Mr Lovemore Moyo and Senate President Cde Edna Madzongwe entered Parliament amid cheers from spectators.
The legislators including Cabinet ministers entered Parliament Building led by Vice President John Nkomo and Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai.