Zimbabwe embraces Year of the Horse with vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations

Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare, was awash with vibrant colours and cultural festivities yesterday as the nation joined in the global celebration of the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival.

The event, a testament to the deepening Sino-Zimbabwe relations, saw a city-wide cultural carnival organized by the China-Zimbabwe Exchange Centre in partnership with the Chinese Embassy, marking the arrival of the Year of the Horse.

The celebrations, held on 7 February 2026, showcased a rich tapestry of Chinese culture, featuring captivating martial arts displays, traditional musical performances by both Zimbabwean and Chinese artists and an extensive exhibition of Chinese cuisine and products.

The carnival provided a unique platform for cultural exchange, drawing attendees who eagerly embraced the opportunity to experience Chinese traditions firsthand.

Honourable Emily Jesaya, Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, officiated at the event, embracing the profound significance of the celebrations.

In her remarks, she said the shared values between the two nations, is of great significance towards unity and development.

“As we step into the Year of the Horse, we celebrate the attributes this noble animal symbolises in your culture, namely strength, intelligence, vitality and unwavering purpose.

“These are not just Chinese values, they are universal aspirations that we connect deeply with the Zimbabwean spirit,” said Hon Jesaya.

Hon. Jesaya further emphasised the role of cultural ties in fostering international cooperation.

“The designation of 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges showcases the fact that sustainable relations between nations are built not only through economic cooperation but also through cultural dialogue and mutual understanding,” she noted. She reiterated the long-standing friendship.

“This special occasion reminds us of the enduring friendship and strong cultural ties between Zimbabwe and China,” she said.

Reflecting on the broader impact of such exchanges, the Deputy Minister articulated, “Cultural diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges are the heart of building mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration across our nations.”

She also expressed her delight in witnessing the fusion of cultures, remarking, “Happy to have been a part of history, witnessing the vibrant Chinese culture, side by side with Zimbabwe’s-all in the cuisine, the fashion and many more!”

The Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, is the most important traditional Chinese holiday.

It marks the beginning of a new year on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar.

The Year of the Horse, commencing on February 17, 2026, is associated with characteristics such as energy, enthusiasm and independence.

The festival is a time for family reunions, feasting and various cultural practices aimed at ushering in good fortune.

The event in Harare not only celebrated a significant cultural milestone but also reinforced the growing partnership between China and Zimbabwe, extending beyond economic cooperation to encompass arts, culture, tourism, education and creative industries.

The carnival served as a vivid demonstration of how cultural events can strengthen diplomatic ties and promote mutual appreciation between diverse communities.