National Gallery of Zimbabwe Undergoes Major Renovations with Support from Higherlife Foundation
Renovations are underway at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare, marking a new chapter for the country’s arts sector. Workers have already erected a perimeter fence, painted the gallery’s interior, repaired staff toilets, and drilled a solar-powered borehole. The facelift comes ahead of the prestigious CIMAM International Committee for Museums and Collections of Modern Art event, set to spotlight Zimbabwe’s creative talent on the global stage.
The upgrades are supported by the Higherlife Foundation through its newly launched Arts & Culture Pillar initiative. Co-founder Tsitsi Masiyiwa said the programme is designed to empower visual artists while ensuring Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated.
“Last week, Higherlife Foundation launched a new Arts & Culture Pillar, a milestone that fills me with pride. We have already begun supporting the renovation of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, including its galleries in Harare, Bulawayo, and Victoria Falls,” Masiyiwa said. “If you have never stepped inside one of our galleries, I urge you to do so. Immerse yourself in the stories etched in stone, wood, and paint by generations of Zimbabwean artists.”
Masiyiwa, inspired by her daughter Joanna’s involvement in global art spaces, encouraged parents to support children who pursue art. She reflected on her personal journey, acknowledging how misconceptions about African culture once shaped her views. “Growing up, the phrase ‘African culture’ was often associated with darkness, danger, or things to be avoided. I once dismissed these masterpieces, believing they were ‘demonically inspired.’ One of my daughters, who studied art and is actively engaged with world-renowned galleries, opened my eyes.”
She added that Zimbabwean art should not be seen as relics of the past but as a living inheritance. “Our history, culture, and stories are living gifts we must safeguard. They ground us in respect, dignity, and the power of community,” she said.
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe welcomed the support, hailing the renovations as a vital step in strengthening the arts hub. The institution said the improvements will enhance its ability to serve artists, students, and visitors while providing a world-class platform for Zimbabwean creativity.
With renovations ongoing and international attention on the horizon, the initiative signals a renewed commitment to positioning Zimbabwean art on the global stage while empowering local artists to thrive.
