Online Reporter
Sifelani Tsiko
Fact Check Editor
Zimbabweans at home and in the diaspora are celebrating Africa Day with vibrant cultural festivals, live music, dance performances and art showcases at various locations.
All these events, which started last week and run into today, are typically centred around May 25 — a day set aside to honour the founding of the African Union 63 years ago, highlight the achievements of African nations and promote cross-cultural connections.
In Harare last week, various schools and institutions hosted vibrant gatherings featuring food and fashion activities, displays of African art and culture, Afrobeat entertainment, and the display and consumption of Africa’s diverse cuisine.
In schools, kindergartens, universities, hotels and other event places, there were smaller localised festivals that featured African traditions, live music, dance, poetry and beauty showcases.
For most Zimbabweans, Africa Day offers an opportunity to celebrate African solidarity, unity in diversity, creativity, as well as the cultural and economic potential that lies in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
Today, there are several events taking place to mark Africa Day in Harare and various towns across the country.
Dr Marble Daniel, a prominent Harare-based social entrepreneur, AI strategist, and women’s and youth empowerment leader, will host a free online session on “Africa Day AI Masterclass” via Google Meet from 11am to 12pm.
The session will cover topics such as AI and Africa’s future economy, AI opportunities for business and careers, and future-proofing businesses or careers.
Some will get into the Africa Day spirit by purchasing African attire and food at various outlets dotted around the country.
Mr Traditionals, an outlet, for example, is offering a special Africa Day combo, which includes traditional Zimbabwean staples like mealie meal, brown rice and dried mushrooms, along with herbal tea — all packaged in a winnowing basket.
Learners from various schools commemorated Africa Day by performing indigenous dances such as nhimbe, mbakumba, muchongoyo, Chilanga Mulilo, adumu and ndlamu to honour and sustain Africa’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.
Workers with a local retail giant wore their uniforms with traditional hats, necklaces and other fashion items.
Zimbabweans at the Perth Inner City United Methodist Church wore their traditional African attire to celebrate Africa Day.
“Ahead of Africa Day commemorations on Monday, CBZ teams across the country today came together to celebrate African culture, identity and heritage,” the bank said in a post.
“From vibrant traditional attire to proudly African expressions of unity and creativity, the celebrations reflected the richness and diversity that continue to define Africa.”
NSSA staff in Harare also transformed their offices into a beautiful sea of vibrant African prints, textures and rich cultural pride.
“Today, the team demonstrated a powerful sense of team spirit and shared identity, proving that we are rooted in the community we serve,” it said in a post on social media.
“The high morale and unity on display naturally translated into an enthusiastic, high-quality service experience for all our clients. We are happy to share these images of our staff showcasing the true spirit of Africa.”
Hyatt Regency Harare — The Meikles — also marked Africa Day celebrations by displaying a captivating collection of artworks curated in collaboration with the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe in its hotel lobby.
“Each piece tells a unique story, celebrating the richness, diversity and spirit of Africa through the eyes of talented local artists,” the hotel said in a post.
“Whether you are joining us for a meal, a meeting or simply passing through, take a moment to immerse yourself in this inspiring exhibition and discover the beauty of African artistic expression.”
Geo Pomona Waste Management team also showed up in their stunning African wear, celebrating the rich heritage, diverse cultures and vibrant spirit of this beautiful continent.
“This is more than just a build-up to Africa Day. It is a reminder that our roots run deep, our style speaks volumes and our unity is our strength,” the company said in a post.
