FULL TEXT: HIFA Suspends 2019 Festival Due To Unviable Social & Economic Situation

The Harare International Festival Of The Arts (HIFA) will not stage the event in 2019 and will focus on new projects leading up to a major Festival in 2020.

The decision has been taken after much thought, soul-searching and discussion. Zimbabwe is dealing with many important issues, both social and economic. In this context, the Festival cannot responsibly commit to presenting a feasible and viable event this year of the same quality and impact that HIFA is known for.

The Festival will use this time to work on other projects, particularly in schools, to broaden and deepen the organisation’s contribution to arts and cultural development. Showcasing the artistic outcomes of our planned new school programmes will be one facet of the next Festival, 28 April to 3 May 2020.

HIFA is Zimbabwe’s largest arts initiative. The Festival powerfully engages local, regional and international recognition for Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity and capacity to achieve the highest standards of artistic presentation.

HIFA is widely acknowledged as one of the best arts and culture initiatives on the Continent, bringing together corporate investors, embassy and donor partners, local and visiting artists, large and enthusiastic audiences, and the media. The Festival proudly and joyfully celebrates the best of Zimbabwe.

In addition to working on producing a spectacular HIFA 2020, HIFA will continue to work throughout the year on initiatives that build capacity within the local arts community
use arts and culture to explore social and community issues
assist companies realise their marketing and PR potential through creative thinking

We look forward to celebrating the amazing Zimbabwean creative community, all the visiting international artists and groups, our supporters and our loyal audience together at the Festival in 2020. Note the dates in your calendars and see you from 28 April – 3 May 2020!