2024 marks both the 44th anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the 44th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe.

On Apr 20, the 44th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Zimbabwe was celebrated at Zhejiang Africa Service Center in Hangzhou. The event welcomed Zimbabweans from Hangzhou and other cities in China as well as Zhejiang companies representatives to engage in communication and commemorate Zimbabwe's journey toward liberation and national unity.

At the start of the event, Xie Qi, the director of the Zhejiang-Africa Service Center, highlighted the strengthening cooperation between Zimbabwe and China. He noted the increase in Zimbabweans coming to China for education and work, which has made Zhejiang a popular destination. Additionally, Zhejiang companies have actively invested across various sectors in Zimbabwe, transforming Hangzhou into a key hub for cultural exchanges between the two countries. Xie Qi further emphasized that the Zhejiang-Africa Service Center would continue to collaborate closely with the Zimbabwean diaspora to organize a variety of Sino-African cultural exchange events, aiming to strengthen ties and foster mutual benefits.

Following that, Mr. Kumbirai Diza, the Minister-Counselor of the Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in China, delivered a keynote speech reviewing Zimbabwe's 44-year development journey and its friendly cooperation with China. He emphasized the friendship between the two peoples and the importance of further enhancing cultural exchanges.

In an interview with Hangzhoufeel, the Minister-Counselor shared some updates on the cooperation between Zimbabwe and Zhejiang province: “There are a lot of projects taking place. We have a couple of Zhejiang big companies investing in Zimbabwe which includes the Tsingshan Group, which is setting up a huge steel plant, on completion creating jobs for people and exporting earnings for the country. We also have companies that are facilitating logistics like Sinotruck”. Speaking about the areas where Zimbabwe seeks to strengthen cooperation with China, Mr. Kumbirai Diza mentioned that in recent years they hope to boost tourism between the two countries for a better people-to-people exchange.

Additionally, representatives of the Zimbabwean diaspora associations from Wenzhou, Wuhan, and Jiangxi delivered enthusiastic video addresses.

The highlight of the event was the announcement of the Zimbabwe-China (Zhejiang) Cultural Exchange Base establishment and the launching of the Digital Automotive Industry Investment Exploration in Zimbabwe. The base is dedicated to creating an innovative non-governmental exchange platform aimed at deepening the profound cultural and socio-economic exchanges between Zimbabwe and China’s Zhejiang Province. The Investment Exploration aims to enhance cooperation and communication between China and Zimbabwe in the digital automotive industry.

The event also featured vibrant performances by the Sacred Roots Band (Mudziunoyera) from Beijing adding a rich cultural atmosphere and festive spirit to the celebration. The ceremony was filled with a variety of artistic performances and cultural displays, including dance, music, and singing, showcasing Zimbabwe's unique cultural charm and artistic flair.

The Zimbabwe Independence Day celebration highlighted the shared commitment to fostering a warm relationship between the people of Zimbabwe and China. Looking ahead, there is hope that Zhejiang Province and its capital, Hangzhou, will emerge as a pivotal center for cooperation between the two nations. Hangzhou Hangzhou International Communication Center wishes happy Independence Day to all Zimbabweans and best wishes for the years ahead!

The event was guided by the Embassy of Zimbabwe in China and China Africa Zhigong Station, hosted by the Bureau of Commerce of Hangzhou Qiantang District and Zhejiang Africa Service Center, and co-hosted by Zimbabweans in China, Abroad Path Leaders (APL).