What is the Capital of Zimbabwe? Harare
Capital City of Zimbabwe: Harare
City Overview
Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, is the largest city in the country and serves as its political, economic, and cultural hub. Located in the northern part of the country, Harare lies at an altitude of about 1,490 meters (4,890 feet) above sea level. Founded in 1890 by the British colonial administration under the name Fort Salisbury, Harare has since evolved into a modern and bustling metropolis.
Harare is situated at the crossroads of major road and rail routes connecting Zimbabwe to neighboring countries, including South Africa, Zambia, and Mozambique. It is a key player in the country’s trade, commerce, and finance sectors, hosting numerous government offices, banks, businesses, and international organizations. Harare also has a dynamic cultural scene, with theaters, galleries, and music venues that showcase Zimbabwe’s rich heritage.
The city is known for its wide boulevards, lush parks, and green spaces, such as the Harare Gardens and Mbare Musika market. Despite the urbanization of Harare, the city still maintains a connection to nature, with the nearby Lake Chivero and various reserves offering respite from the city bustle.
Key Facts About Harare:
- Area: 960 square kilometers (371 square miles)
- Population: Approximately 1.6 million (2023 estimate)
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC +2
- Highest Mountain: Mount Nyangani (2,592 meters / 8,504 feet) is the highest peak in Zimbabwe, located in the eastern highlands, far from Harare.
- Longest River: The Zambezi River (2,574 kilometers / 1,599 miles), flowing through Zimbabwe to the north, is the longest river in the country.
Major Landmarks in Harare
- The National Heroes Acre
The National Heroes Acre is a significant landmark in Harare, dedicated to Zimbabwe’s national heroes. It serves as a memorial and burial site for those who contributed to the country’s liberation struggle during the Rhodesian War of Independence (1965-1979). The site features a grand monument, a large statue of the “Warrior of the People,” and the graves of key figures from the independence movement. It is a place of national reflection and pride. - The National Gallery of Zimbabwe
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe is a must-see for art lovers visiting Harare. Located in the heart of the city, the gallery showcases a wide range of Zimbabwean and African art, from traditional sculptures to contemporary works. The gallery is a key venue for exhibitions, and it provides insight into Zimbabwe’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. - The Mbare Musika Market
One of the most vibrant and busy markets in Harare, Mbare Musika is a hub for both local and international trade. It’s known for its bustling atmosphere, where vendors sell fresh produce, traditional crafts, clothing, and household items. Mbare is also home to a popular bus terminus, making it a key transport and commercial area. - Lake Chivero
Lake Chivero, located just outside Harare, is one of the most popular destinations for those seeking a getaway from the city. The lake offers opportunities for boat rides, fishing, picnicking, and birdwatching. The surrounding Lake Chivero Recreational Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles. - Harare Gardens
The Harare Gardens is a lovely urban park located in the city center, offering a peaceful green space for residents and tourists. The park is ideal for walks, picnics, or simply relaxing while enjoying the natural surroundings. It is also the site of many cultural events and outdoor concerts. - The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences
The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences in Harare is dedicated to the country’s archaeological, cultural, and historical heritage. The museum offers exhibits on Zimbabwe’s pre-colonial and colonial history, as well as displays of ancient artifacts, fossils, and more.
Climate Overview
Harare has a tropical savanna climate with a distinct dry season from May to October and a rainy season from November to April. Due to its high elevation, Harare experiences relatively moderate temperatures compared to other cities in the region. Summers are warm, with temperatures averaging between 22°C (72°F) and 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, with average lows around 8°C (46°F).
Average Climate Data for Harare
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 205 | 6 |
| February | 24 | 163 | 7 |
| March | 23 | 129 | 8 |
| April | 22 | 50 | 9 |
| May | 20 | 12 | 10 |
| June | 19 | 8 | 11 |
| July | 19 | 7 | 11 |
| August | 20 | 10 | 10 |
| September | 22 | 22 | 9 |
| October | 24 | 45 | 8 |
| November | 24 | 113 | 7 |
| December | 24 | 185 | 6 |
Other Cities That Served as Capital in Zimbabwe’s History
Bulawayo (1980–1982)
After Zimbabwe gained independence in 1980, Bulawayo briefly served as the country’s capital before it was moved to Harare in 1982. Bulawayo is Zimbabwe’s second-largest city and remains an important industrial and commercial center, particularly for manufacturing and rail transportation.
Fort Salisbury (1890–1895)
During the period of British colonial rule, the area that is now Harare was known as Fort Salisbury. This settlement was established in 1890 by the British South Africa Company and served as the capital of Rhodesia, the colony that would later become Zimbabwe. The name was changed to Harare in 1982 following independence.
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 16.5 million (2023 estimate)
- Area: 390,757 square kilometers (150,873 square miles)
- Largest City: Harare
- Currency: Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL), with a period of multi-currency use (USD, ZAR, etc.) due to hyperinflation
- Official Language: English (with Shona and Ndebele as major regional languages)
- ISO Country Code: ZW
- Time Zone: Central Africa Time (CAT), UTC +2
Zimbabwe is a landlocked country with a diverse geography, including savanna, forests, and mountains, as well as rich wildlife and national parks. The country’s economic history has been marked by both high growth and severe challenges, particularly due to periods of hyperinflation and political instability. Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe is known for its natural beauty, including the famous Victoria Falls and the Hwange National Park. Harare, as the political and cultural center, remains a dynamic urban hub at the heart of the country.
