Harare Gears Up for Francophone Week 2025: A Celebration of Language and Culture
Harare is set to host the much-anticipated Francophone Week 2025, a vibrant festival celebrating the French language and the rich cultures of French-speaking nations. Scheduled to take place from March 8 to 23, the event is organized by Alliance Française de Harare in collaboration with the embassies of France, Belgium, Switzerland, Canada, Romania, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Egypt.
This annual celebration promises an exciting mix of film screenings, live music, exhibitions, workshops, and a gastronomic journey through Francophone cuisines, offering a deep dive into the cultural diversity of the Francophone world.
A Feast for the Senses
Food lovers can look forward to a culinary experience featuring Swiss delicacies, Canadian flavors, Belgian specialties, and Congolese cuisine, among others. Attendees will get to sample authentic dishes for just US$5 per plate, making it an accessible experience for all.
A Packed Cultural Line-Up
Alliance Française de Harare took to social media to invite attendees to immerse themselves in the vibrant world of Francophone culture.
“We’re celebrating the Francophone Week 2025 from March 8 to 23, packed with film screenings, a music concert, a delicious buffet, an exhibition, conversation time, and activities for schoolchildren, including a singing competition, quiz, and film screenings,” they said.
Attendees can participate in a “speak dating” session (11:00 am – 12:30 pm) to practice their French, enjoy a screening of the animated film Icarus and the Minotaur for children, and share food and drinks at Blablathé Repas Partagé (12:30 pm – 2:00 pm). The afternoon will feature a friendly pétanque game (2:00 pm – 5:00 pm), the opening of the Imaginary Trip II photography exhibition (4:00 pm), and a screening of The Animal Kingdom (5:00 pm).
A Showcase of Francophone Music
On March 15, The Mixx Concert will bring a unique musical experience to Harare, featuring performances by Kananayé (Burkina Faso/France), MIB (marimba), and Bana Des As (rhumba).
Kananayé, a Franco-Burkinabé musical project, promises an electrifying performance blending West African traditions with modern jazz and contemporary rhythms. The band features:
- Clotilde Rullaud (vocals, flute)
- Abdoulaye Traore (guitar)
- Achille Nacoulma (drums/percussion)
- Seydou Diabate (balafon/percussion)
- Boubacar Djiga (kunde/percussion)
“This is a celebration of crossing borders and the power of collaboration. Get ready for a captivating live performance!” the organizers shared.
A Platform for Cultural Exchange
Speaking on the significance of the event, Alliance Française de Harare director Fanny Gauthier emphasized the role of Francophone Week in fostering unity through language and culture.
“La Francophonie is a melting pot of cultural and linguistic diversity, and Francophone Week is the ideal opportunity to celebrate this richness,” she said.
Beyond entertainment, the event highlights the cultural and diplomatic significance of the French language, reinforcing its role in mutual understanding and global exchange.
With a diverse film lineup, a spectacular music concert, and a variety of engaging cultural activities, Francophone Week 2025 promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
