Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
Herald Reporter
THE safeguarding and promotion of the Zimbabwean identity is an imperative in the rapidly evolving global landscape, Acting Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Professor Paul Mavima has said.
Zimbabwe is commemorating Culture Month, whose celebrations are premised on the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, observed annually on May 21, as proclaimed by UNESCO in 2001 following the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity.
President Mnangagwa will preside over this year’s main celebrations, scheduled for Bulawayo Province in two weeks and running under the theme; “Creativity and Diversity: Advancing Vision 2030 through Cultural Expressions”.
“This important programme stands as a celebration of our rich heritage, diverse traditions and the vibrant creativity that defines us as a people.
“This year’s National Culture Month main celebrations will be held in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province on Thursday, 21st of May 2026 at Barbourfields Stadium.
“The celebrations will be presided over by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa,” said Prof Mavima.
The Minister said President Mnangagwa’s Administration continued championing culture as a pillar of national development.
“As a Ministry, we view Culture Month not merely as a ceremonial observance, but as a strategic platform that advances the priorities of the National Development Strategy 2.
“In line with the Human Capital Development pillar, the programme promotes skills development, talent identification, and innovation within the arts and creative sectors, particularly among the youth.
“Through exhibitions, workshops, and community-based initiatives, we are nurturing a generation that is both culturally grounded and economically productive,” he said.
Furthermore, Minister Mavima said Culture Month contributed to inclusive economic growth by positioning the cultural and creative industries as viable sectors for employment creation, entrepreneurship, and wealth generation.
“By creating platforms for artists and cultural practitioners to showcase and commercialise their work, we are strengthening value chains and enhancing the contribution of culture to the national economy.
“The programme also advances the Social Development agenda by fostering unity, social cohesion and national identity.
“Through the celebration of diverse cultural expressions, we are reinforcing shared values, promoting mutual respect, and strengthening the social fabric of our nation.
“Culture remains a powerful instrument for integration, dialogue, and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Prof Mavima said Culture Month supported the Governance and Cultural Identity pillar by promoting the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems and heritage.
