Following numerous consultations, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has announced that the Harare International Carnival, planned for December, will not be held this year.

According to the ZTA, there were a number of competing events that ultimately led to the postponement of the carnival from its original date in October to December. However, due to the competing events during the December period and, after careful consideration and taking into account the weather conditions, which are usually characterised by rainfall, and the current prevailing economic climate, the decision was taken to cancel this year’s event.

“We want to make sure that the event is everything it should be, and without adequate resources and a conducive environment, it would be a disservice to the Harare International Carnival brand and the general populace,” read a statement issued by the ZTA.

“We understand that everyone was excited about the event and we are aware that the carnival has become a major part of the entertainment calendar, therefore, we would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused, as this was an eagerly anticipated annual event that celebrated the beauty of the Zimbabwean cultural diversity and celebration of our hopes and aspirations in the second republic,” concluded the statement.

Despite this year’s event being shelved, Godfrey Koti, ZTA Head of Corporate Affairs, said: “We are looking forward to continuing with hosting the event in years to come.”