Harare came alive over the weekend as thousands of people thronged the colorful Chinese New Year Carnival at Sam Levy Village.
The carnival featured lion dances, cultural and artistic stage performances, traditional Chinese cuisine, and a broad range of exhibitors drawn from sectors such as food, stationery, building materials, and banking. Organizers said the increased scale of this year’s event reflects growing public interest and a strong desire to open the celebration to the wider city.
Many Zimbabweans who spoke to Zim Now said that they enjoyed the exposure to Chinese culture and look forward to more similar events.
“I really loved the fashion show. I never knew that Chinese traditional clothing comes in so many different styles. I am inspired and am going to research Chinese couture,” said Ike, a fashion design student at a local college.
Other attendees said that tasting different Chinese street foods was an interesting experience.
“The food is great. But the prices are a bit steep. Something needs to be done to make Chinese cuisine more affordable. It is really a part of Zimbabwean culture now with so many Chinese restaurants to choose from in Harare,” said Leah.
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Leah said her two kids and a niece loved the colorful lion dance, and the kids' activity, which included rides.
While fun was the focus of the day, many people also took advantage of the many businesses exhibiting to shop for everything from toys to kitchens and financial services.
The carnival was organized by the Zimbabwe China Exchange Center, the Zimbabwe Chinese Chamber of Commerce, and the Jacaranda Culture and Media Corporation, with support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Zimbabwe.
Speaking at the official opening, Chinese Ambassador Zhou Ding said the festival stands as a symbol of friendship and shared progress between the two nations.
Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts, and Recreation Emily Jesaya praised the role of cultural exchange in strengthening relations and creating opportunities for young people.
Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa encouraged small and medium enterprises to leverage links with China to grow their businesses through access to quality and affordable goods and wider markets.
Deputy Director of the Zimbabwe China Exchange Center Xuezhi Du commended the strong turnout and positive engagement between communities, saying the celebration reflects a healthy and growing relationship.
“The cultural relationship between Zimbabwe and China continues to grow stronger each year, and this carnival shows the warmth and openness between our people,” Xuezhi said. “We encourage everyone to keep this good spirit of friendship and cooperation.”
He said the event will continue to expand as a flagship platform for exchange, enterprise, and friendship between Zimbabwe and China.
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