admin
Elliot Ziwira-Senior Writer
As the SADC converges on Harare for the 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, Zimbabwe unfurls its pulsating tapestry of hospitality, culture, and stunning infrastructure, weaving an enchantment of warmth and wonder.
Taking a glimpse into the preparations, now in the homestretch, on a recent Tuesday late morning, The Herald is enveloped in the nation’s palpable warm-heartedness, inviting delegates to immerse themselves in a memorable experience.
Running under the theme: “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustained Economic Growth and Development towards an Industrialised SADC”, the 44th Summit scheduled for August 17, 2024, is a momentous occasion for the people of Zimbabwe, affording them an opportunity to claim the limelight on the global stage.
Significantly, President Mnangagwa will assume the chairmanship of the regional bloc at the summit.
Indeed, travelling is seeing, and seeing is learning, for journeying is not about moving from one place to another, for whatever reasons—it is an experience in which dreams are shared.
The eye, an insatiable and curious rover, is soon consumed in the beautiful environs stretching to the limit of sight in whatever space of the cardinal points marked from the gateway to Zimbabwe—Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
Upon arrival at the sleek, modern airport, delegates, who have already started jetting in, investors, tourists, and any other traveller, are engulfed in effortless elegance. Gleaming surfaces, lush greenery, and vivacious artwork create a breath-taking first impression.
The symbolic airport revamped at US$153 million, beginning from 2018, through a loan provided by China EximBank, speaks to President Mnangagwa’s desire to tell the Zimbabwean story without really shouting, for action has a way of speaking—silently.
With the VVIP Pavilion ready to host delegates, the airport’s efficient services and friendly staff, adorned in elegant apparel and bright smiles, set the tone for a seamless and enchanting experience.
Stepping into the arrivals hall, visitors are welcomed by the sweet scent of fresh flowers as soft melodies of traditional music fill the air, transporting them to a world of serenity.
On this radiant Tuesday late morning, the route from the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport to the New Parliament Building is bathed in warm, golden light. Characteristic of August, the clear blue sky above appears to stretch on forever, providing a brilliant backdrop for the unfolding spirited scene below.
As they journey along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Road, past the Independence Arch, to the majestic summit venue, delegates are treated to a kaleidoscope of hues, hums and scents. The palm trees lining the street blend with indigenous trees on the fringes to create an aura of déjà vu.
Ceremonial flagpoles, comprising twin flag masts, dual lights, and display boards for photographs of the VVIP delegates, line Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Road, Julius Nyerere Way, Nemakonde Way, and Chairman Mao Boulevard, among other streets, conveying a befitting sense of grandeur and dignity.
The Zimbabwean flag—the nation’s pride—waves regally in the August breeze in unison with the blue SADC ensign, evoking the slow, steady and powerful motions of the secretary bird’s wings.
As delegates make way towards the traffic circle intersecting Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo and Dieppe roads, they are greeted by the flagpoles proudly displaying the vibrant colours of the 16 SADC member states, plus the bloc’s blue.
A sight to behold, the beautifully manicured intersecting roads intermingle with the vivacious colours of Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, and Zambia.
The secretary bird’s wingspan—wide and strong, evokes the mind’s eye, personifying unity and solidarity of the SADC nations, embracing the diversity and individuality of each member state. Inspired by the rhythmic symphony of the way the bird of prey flaps its wings, the flags flutter in harmony, celebrating the beauty of freedom and cooperation
Metaphorically, the bird’s powerful wings and the flapping flags signify the spirit of unity, hope, and progress that defines the SADC community.
From Seke Road, the route feeds into Julius Nyerere Way, past the bustling city centre of Harare, as the newly revamped Sam Nujoma Extension comes into view. Its lustrous design and streetlights glow in the sunlight, demonstrating commitment to modernity.
The smooth drive continues onto the newly overhauled Nemakonde Way, a dual carriageway, flanked by an avenue of towering palm trees, their leafy canopies a luxuriant green, swaying gently in the August breeze, and ceremonial flagpoles up to the Westgate roundabout.
Zimbabwe and 16 SADC member states’ flags proudly flap in the wind at the Westgate traffic circle, their bright colours dancing across the landscape, communicating a shared story of camaraderie.
Billboards showcasing Zimbabwe’s rich heritage, cultural attractions, and warm hospitality dot the landscape, adding splashes of colour and visual acumen to the scenery. Advertisements for local businesses and SADC Summit stakeholders also make an appearance, blending seamlessly into the picturesque surroundings.
The messaging of the billboards is telling, emboldening Africans to embrace their uniqueness and shared values for the common good.
“Embracing our oneness and shared destiny”, boldly declares one of the billboards at the intersection of Nemakonde Way and Harare Drive.
As the ride continues along Nemakonde Way into Chairman Mao Boulevard, formerly Old Mazowe Road, renamed in honour of a great friend of Zimbabwe, the wide carriageway stretches out into an expanse of beauty, epitomising commitment to urban renewal.
The six-kilometre Boulevard dual carriageway, which stretches from Solomon Mutswairo Road (formerly Golden Stairs) to the New Parliament Building, offers an equally impressive alternative route, its modern design, palm trees and streetlights casting a warm glow over the scenery.
Everywhere the eye fancies, the streets are immaculately maintained, with neatly manicured lawns and flowerbeds adding a pop of colour to the already bubbly scene.
Majestically sitting on a 70-metre platform above the charming vicinity, the seat of the Legislature rises like a beacon. Its striking design, amalgamation of glossy lines, cutting-edge technology, and traditional Zimbabwean motifs enshrined in Great Zimbabwe and the Victoria Falls, the Smoke that Thunders (Mosi-oa-Tunya), symbolises the nation’s proud heritage and forward-thinking spirit.
The neighbouring fields, bursting with flourishing blossoms, crops, and towering indigenous trees, provide a tranquil oasis—perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Throughout the journey, the streets are lined with an array of streetlights, flooding the palm trees and flag-lined roads with their deep radiance, creating a sense of splendour and welcoming ambiance.
Dazzling world-class infrastructure notwithstanding, it is the people of Zimbabwe who are the true masterpieces in this collective journey. Zimbabweans, with their infectious laughter, warm smiles, and generous hearts, welcome visitors with open arms, readily sharing stories, traditions, and the rhythms of their daily lives.
From the lively streets of Harare in which vibrant markets and street art paint a picture of creativity and resilience, to the rural villages, where traditions and timeless wisdom await, every encounter demonstrates the nation’s affection for humanity.
As the 44th Summit reels out, delegates will savour the rich flavours of Zimbabwean cuisine—the tender bite of sadza and mazondo or maguru, and other traditional dishes. They will enjoy the spicy kick of sizzling barbequed steak, fish and pork, as well as the sweetness of fresh masawu or other indigenous fruits.
They will be mesmerised by the hypnotic rhythms of Afro-jazz, the African drum, rattle and mbira, beckoning them to the dance floor to skank the hours away. A medley of the nation’s diverse cultural heritage, embodied in music, dance, and storytelling, will certainly leave them spellbound.
The exciting colours and bold patterns of traditional Zimbabwean textiles and artwork will leave them in awe—inspiring them to heights untold.
Beyond the pomp and ceremony, by hosting the summit, Zimbabwe showcases its commitment to sustainability and innovation, as the venue shines, with its top-notch technologies and energy-efficient systems, reflecting the country’s dedication to a brighter and more sustainable future.
From solar-powered lighting to rainwater and groundwater harvesting, every detail has been carefully crafted to minimise the event’s ecological footprint.
Therefore, as the SADC family gathers in Harare, Zimbabwe opens its heart, sharing her story, culture, and warm-heartedness with the world. Indeed, nothing beats the treasured feeling that comes with first-hand experience, for travelling is seeing and seeing is believing.
It brings a newfound appreciation for this incredible nation and its people, and leaves a piece of Zimbabwe forever etched in the heart.
As the sun dips lower in the sky towards the western rim of the universe, the light casts a warm, golden glow over the entire landscape, making for a remarkable experience.
With workmen, engineers and other experts leaving no screw loose, the atmosphere is alive with excitement and anticipation, setting the tone for a successful 44th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, and a place in the sunshine for the people of Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter