30/07/2026
Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) Statement
30 July 2026
To our HIFA Family -
Over the past few months, we have been deeply moved by the response to the announcement of HIFA's return. The many messages, memories, photographs and words of encouragement shared by audiences, artists and friends across Zimbabwe and around the world have been a powerful reminder of the affection so many people continue to hold for this Festival.
For almost three decades, HIFA has belonged not only to those who created it, but to everyone who has performed, volunteered, partnered with, supported or simply found joy in it. The response of recent months has been a beautiful reminder of that enduring place HIFA holds in the lives of so many people.
After careful consideration, we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the HIFA programme that had been planned for August 2026. Reviving a festival with HIFA's history, ambition and scale is a significant undertaking. As preparations have progressed, it has become clear that giving ourselves more time is the most responsible way to ensure that HIFA returns with the artistic excellence, organisational care and sense of occasion that our audiences expect and deserve.
While this news will disappoint many people, we believe it is far better to take the necessary time now than to compromise the quality and integrity that have always defined HIFA.
The work has not stopped. Every day, people are working to shape the next chapter of HIFA: strengthening partnerships, developing ideas and laying the foundations for a Festival that can flourish long into the future.
To everyone who has reached out with messages of encouragement, thank you. Your belief in HIFA reminds us that this Festival belongs to a remarkable community of people who continue to care deeply about its future.
We look forward to sharing more of the journey with you in the months ahead, and to welcoming you back to HIFA when the time is right.
