BUSINESS WRITER
The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) has cancelled this year’s edition of the gathering amid economic challenges the country is facing.
The Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) is an annual 6-day arts and culture celebration taking place in the capital city of Zimbabwe, Harare. It began in 1999 and is the most prominent and prestigious showcase for Zimbabwean arts as well as a platform for performances and exhibitions by visiting international artists and groups.
HIFA was first shelved in 2002 and then cancelled again in 2016 as Zimbabwe’s economy crumbled and left desperate locals unable to withdraw money from banks.
Despite many sponsors pulling out, the following two years, festival organisers revived the event which is normally held in Harare’s central park
In a statement, HIFA Executive Director Maria Wilson said they have cancelled this year’s edition and would concentrate on various projects that foster the development of arts in the country.’
“Zimbabwe is dealing with many important issues, both social and economic. In this context, the Festival cannot responsibly commit to presenting a viable event of the same quality and impact that HIFA is known for this year.
“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 culture 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,” reads the statement.’
He said in addition to presenting the Festival, HIFA works throughout the year on initiatives that build capacity within the local arts community, use arts and culture to explore social and community issues, and assist companies realise their marketing and PR potential
through creative thinking.
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.
