Story by Patience Nyagato
ZIMBABWE’S flagship arts showcase, the Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA), is set to return in 2026 after a prolonged absence, with organisers confirming dates for its revival.
In a statement released on social media on Saturday, organisers announced that HIFA 2026, themed “Up”, will run from August 3 to August 9, marking the first edition since the festival was last held in 2018.
Founded in 1999 and traditionally staged at Harare Gardens, HIFA has long been a major platform for music, theatre, dance and visual arts, drawing both local and international performers and audiences.
Over the years, global artists such as Salif Keita have headlined the festival, which became one of Africa’s most recognised cultural events.
Organisers also confirmed dates for future editions, with HIFA 2027 scheduled for April 26 to May 2, and HIFA 2028 set for May 1 to May 7.
“They are here! HIFA is excited to share these key dates: HIFA 2026, ‘Up’: August 3 to August 9, 2026… HIFA 2027: April 26 to May 2, 2027… HIFA 2028: May 1 to May 7 2028,” read part of the statement.
Beyond the flagship festival, the announcement outlined an expanded programming calendar, including a monthly stand-up comedy series titled “Laughter, the Best Medicine”, with launch shows expected in Harare in late June and in Bulawayo in early July.
Other planned initiatives include a “Zimbabwe Independence” global touring series, as well as additional events such as IHAS in September and “The Right Stuff” in December.
The return of HIFA is expected to reinvigorate Zimbabwe’s creative sector, which has faced disruptions in recent years, although organisers are yet to release details on venues, performers or the full scope of the 2026 edition.
While anticipation continues to build, it remains unclear whether the festival will fully revert to its traditional format or adopt a reimagined structure.
For now, the confirmation of dates marks a significant step towards the revival of one of the continent’s premier arts festivals.
