Harare Profile

Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, is located on Zimbabwe's central highveld plateau at an altitude of approximately 1,483 meters (4,865 feet) above sea level. Its origins can be traced back to September 12, 1890, when the Pioneer Column, a British colonial expedition led by Cecil Rhodes, established a fort at this strategic location. Initially named Fort Salisbury after the then British Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury, the settlement quickly grew into a European-dominated town and, subsequently, the capital of Southern Rhodesia. Its early development was largely driven by its administrative role, as well as its proximity to agricultural lands and potential mineral wealth.

Salisbury was granted municipality status in 1897 and developed further upon the arrival of the railway from the port of Beira in Mozambique a few years later, and throughout the colonial era, it served as the administrative and economic heart of Rhodesia, a period marked by racial segregation and political tension. Salisbury became a city in 1935 and played a central role in the declaration of Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI) in 1965 by Ian Smith's white minority government. However, with the culmination of the liberation struggle and Zimbabwe's independence in April 1980, the city underwent a transformative change. On April 18, 1982, the second anniversary of independence, Salisbury was officially renamed Harare, a name derived from Neharare, a Shona chief who commanded Mount Hampden, a prominent hill north of the city. Others claim that the name Harare is derived from the African word 'Haarari' meaning 'he does not sleep', the slogan of an African chief who lived in the area to warn off those who might have considered attacking him and his people during the night. This renaming symbolised a profound break from its colonial past and the dawn of a new, sovereign identity.

Today Harare, with its metro area population of 1.6m (2025), with 98% Africans, 1% Asians and 1% whites, is a sprawling metropolis that serves as the economic, cultural, and political nexus of Zimbabwe, Harare is a city of contrasts – where colonial-era architecture intersects with modern high-rises, and bustling markets thrive alongside tranquil green spaces. Known for its tree-lined avenues, pleasant climate, and the enduring spirit of its people, Harare is far more than just a capital; it is a living testament to Zimbabwe's tumultuous history, present challenges, and future aspirations.

Its elevated position contributes to its remarkably pleasant subtropical highland climate. Despite its proximity to the tropics, Harare experiences distinct seasons: a warm, wet summer from November to March, characterised by high temperatures and significant rainfall, and a cooler, dry winter from May to August, with sunny days and surprisingly chilly nights. This temperate climate makes Harare an attractive place for both residents and visitors throughout much of the year. As Zimbabwe's primary urban centre, Harare serves as the undisputed economic engine of the nation. Its economy is diverse, encompassing manufacturing, finance, commerce, and services. The city hosts the headquarters of numerous national and international companies, financial institutions, and the Zimbabwe Stock Exchange, solidifying its role as the country's main financial hub. Key industries include textiles, steel, chemicals, and food processing, although the manufacturing sector has faced significant challenges in recent years.

Harare Profile

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<h3>Harare Profile Tourist Attractions</h3>

Beyond formal industries, Harare's vibrant informal sector plays a crucial role, providing livelihoods for a large portion of the urban population through small-scale trade, artisanal crafts, and various services. Despite its economic significance, Harare, like the rest of Zimbabwe, has contended with periods of economic instability, high inflation, and unemployment, which continue to shape the daily lives of its inhabitants.

Harare is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting Zimbabwe's ethnic diversity. The predominant languages spoken are Shona, Ndebele, and English, the latter serving as the official language of government and business. The city is home to the University of Zimbabwe, the country's oldest and largest institution of higher learning, which attracts students from across the nation and region, contributing to a youthful and dynamic intellectual atmosphere.

Cultural life in Harare is vibrant, characterised by a lively music scene, with genres ranging from traditional Shona mbira music to contemporary urban grooves and gospel. The city boasts several art galleries, including the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe, which showcases both traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean and African art. Theatre, dance, and literature also thrive, often reflecting topical social and political themes. Urban life revolves around bustling markets like Mbare Musika, a large, busy street market on the Ardbennie Road in the centre of the city next to Harare's main bus terminal. Lots to buy but lots to lose because of thieves operating in the area. The Harare Gardens, the city's largest public park, (located behind the National Gallery)is a great place to relax, and has an island-like stand of a rainforest and a miniature Victoria Falls, well, sort of. Just imagine the Victoria Falls without the water, but don't close your eyes when doing so, especially after dusk, when the gardens are considered unsafe, especially for tourists. shopping malls, recreational parks, and a dynamic culinary scene that offers both local delicacies and international cuisine.

Harare's urban landscape is dotted with other landmarks and tranquil green spaces. The National Heroes Acre, a revered national monument, serves as the burial ground for heroes of Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. The Parliament of Zimbabwe stands as a prominent architectural and political symbol. For art enthusiasts, the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe, located on Julius Nyerere Way in the city centre, is a must-visit, housing an impressive collection of Shona stone sculptures and other African artworks by local artists, together with and regular special exhibitions. The National Botanic Gardens exhibit a rich diversity of indigenous and exotic plant species.

Also check out the Museum of Human Sciences on Burnet Road which contains many exhibits from Zimbabwe's history, including a 700-year-old Ark of the Covenant replica, believed to be the oldest wooden object ever found in sub-Saharan Africa. For those with a liking for Zimbabwean crafts, maybe spend a few hours browsing the Doon Estate, a row of former railway workers' houses that have been converted and now sell local crafts. Oh, and if you stop there for refreshments, look out for the local monkeys who are somewhat partial to any sugar cubes left on the tables! Outside the city centre, the Mukuvisi Woodlands provide a unique opportunity to observe local wildlife in a natural setting. The iconic Balancing Rocks in Epworth, a geological formation featured on Zimbabwean banknotes, also stand as a natural wonder near the city.

Originally famous for its safety, today Harare has a somewhat dilapidated feel due to the economic woes of the country, and crime is on the rise, with tourists, such as there are, being strongly encouraged to traverse the sprawling city by taxi or car only. Harare is the country's main distribution point for agricultural produce, especially its Virginia tobacco and, as a hub for bus, rail, road, and air transport, the city has remained a major trading centre for the manufacture of steel, textiles and chemicals as well as having a gold mining presence with a number of mines in the area.

Like many rapidly growing African cities, Harare faces a range of urban challenges. These include infrastructure deficits, particularly in housing, water supply, and sanitation; traffic congestion; and the strain on public services. Economic volatility has also impacted urban planning and development. However, despite these hurdles, Harare remains a city of immense resilience and potential. Efforts are continually being made to improve urban infrastructure, attract investment, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

For more about Harare check out the video above then, make a virtual landing at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in the link provided then, check out our interactive map of Harare and zoom in on areas of interest.