Online Reporter
REMARKS by Madame Lyu Renhong at the Reception at the Chinese Embassy Celebrating International Women’s Day and Lantern Festival (Harare, 27 February 2026)
Welcome to the Chinese Embassy. With the joy of the Chinese New Year still in the air, and the Lantern Festival and International Women’s Day just around the corner, today’s gathering carries special warmth and significance.
We are truly honoured to bring together outstanding women from across Zimbabwe — leaders, entrepreneurs, scholars, artists, and community builders — to celebrate the strength, wisdom, and tenacity that women bring to every aspect of our lives, as well as the friendship, culture, and enduring bonds between our two nations.
China and Zimbabwe are both civilizations with rich traditions that value family, unity, and collective strength. In both of our cultures, harmony within the family is the foundation of harmony in society. As the Chinese saying goes, “Harmony at home brings prosperity in all things.”
Strong, supportive families are the bedrock of vibrant communities and thriving nations.
Zimbabwean wisdom also expresses this beautifully: “Musha mukadzi.” A home is made by the woman. These simple yet profound words reveal that women are not only caregivers; they are leaders, innovators and custodians of culture. When women flourish, the foundation of society becomes stronger.
Dear friends,
This year, as we mark the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, we keep in mind that enduring friendship is built not only through agreements, but by people — and very often, by women.
Today’s programme embodies that spirit of exchange. Through Chinese and Zimbabwean musical performances, we will hear harmonies that transcend language. The showcase of traditional Chinese and Zimbabwean attire will display a fusion of tradition and modernity, a vibrant exchange of artistry and civilisations between our two nations.
Through traditional cultural experiences — whether calligraphy, handicrafts, making dumplings and tangyuan, chopstick skills, Chinese medicine, or festive customs — we hope you will get a glimpse of not only the charm of Chinese culture, but also the shared human values that unite us. Cultural exchange is not only about appreciation; it’s about connection — about discovering common aspirations and forging friendships that transcend borders.
As our co-operation continues to grow and deepen, women will remain central to this journey, strengthening communities, inspiring the next generation, and fostering mutual understanding between our peoples.
Let us use today not only as a celebration, but also as encouragement to continue creating space for women’s voices, leadership and participation at every level of society.
By supporting women, we strengthen families, stabilise communities, and build strong, prosperous nations.
May the light of lanterns guide us beyond today, into homes filled with laughter, into schools filled with the joy of learning, into communities where every woman, child, and family can thrive and fulfill their greatest potential.
May the spirit of “Musha Mukadzi.” stay with us and inspire us with the immense strength that lies at the heart of every home, every community, and every nation.
To all the remarkable women here today: You are an endless ocean of wisdom and strength! May you continue to inspire, lead, and shine as beacons of hope and progress!
Happy International Women’s Day.
Thank you.
