Chinese New Year Celebrations in Zimbabwe Mark Achievements and Future Prospects

The Chinese New Year celebrations in Zimbabwe reached new heights on January 13, 2025, at the University of Zimbabwe’s Beit Hall, as a vibrant display of modern and traditional Chinese and Zimbabwean music reverberated throughout the venue. The event, which was a fusion of cultural performances, business achievements, and celebrations of the growing China-Zimbabwe relationship, was supported by key industries including mining, banking, farming, construction, aviation, and hospitality—all sectors where Chinese businesses in Zimbabwe continue to thrive.

The carefully curated event kicked off with a dazzling “Dancing Lions Celebrate the New Year” performance by the Dream Show Art Troupe, setting the tone for a night filled with artistic excellence. Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, delivered a powerful message about the year ahead, highlighting the 2024 Lunar New Year as a time for both reflection and optimism.

In his address, Ambassador Zhou underscored the deepening bilateral relations between China and Zimbabwe, noting, “2024 was a year of bumper harvest for our bilateral relations. I’m happy to have witnessed the completion and commissioning of some monumental projects, which have been made possible by either Chinese government’s financial support or private sector investments.”

Zhou’s comments were a nod to the progress made in various infrastructure projects that have boosted Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development. He also praised the resilient partnership between the two countries, which has strengthened over the years. As part of his address, Zhou highlighted that 2025 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Zimbabwe, calling it the “Year of the Snake,” symbolizing wisdom, transformation, and creativity.

The event featured an impressive lineup of nearly 15 performers, including award-winning celebrities like Nyasha David, Fusion 5 Mangwiro, and Mwenje Matole. The Dream Show Art Troupe, which played a significant role in the event, also featured performances from artists like Xiong Nengzi, Liu Zheng, Sun Ting, and others who captivated the audience with their talents.

Zhao Zijing, who directed the event alongside Steve Zivanayi Zhao from the China Zimbabwe Exchange Centre, expressed his enthusiasm for the celebrations. “This was an overwhelming and mind-blowing experience. We are looking forward to an influx of Chinese investors in Zimbabwe in 2025,” Zhao said, emphasizing the growing interest in strengthening the business ties between China and Zimbabwe.

Representatives from major companies, such as Stanbic Bank and Four Seasons Irrigation, also voiced their support for the event and the China-Africa Corridor. Monalisa Sigauke, from Stanbic Bank, highlighted the importance of their Chinese desk, which facilitates business between Zimbabwe and China, ensuring a seamless process for Chinese investors.

Jack Li, owner of Four Seasons Irrigation, expressed his satisfaction with the progress his company made in 2024 and looked forward to expanding operations in Zimbabwe. The event also showcased support from Chinese firms like PG and Sunny Yi Feng Companies, which stressed the importance of investing in resilient housing and infrastructure as part of Zimbabwe’s long-term development goals.

In conclusion, the Chinese New Year celebrations in Zimbabwe not only celebrated cultural heritage but also served as a reminder of the robust and evolving relationship between China and Zimbabwe. With numerous achievements in various sectors, the event was a reflection of the ongoing collaboration and the bright prospects for further cooperation in 2025. As both nations look forward to a prosperous year ahead, the celebrations marked a significant step towards achieving new heights in their diplomatic and economic relations.