Facts for Kids

Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe, a country in southern Africa. 🦁

It has a population of about 1.6 million people and is located in the eastern part of Zimbabwe. Harare is known for its parks, like Harare Gardens, where families can enjoy picnics and play games. 🥪🌳 The city's name comes from a local leader named Neharawa, who lived in the area over 100 years ago. Harare is a busy place, filled with markets, shops, and tall buildings, making it a lively center for both culture and business! 💼

Harare plays an important role in Zimbabwe's economy! 💰

The city is known for its agriculture, manufacturing, and trade. Farmers grow crops like maize and tobacco, which are sold in markets and to other countries. Harare also has big industries that make clothes, food, and other products. Many people work in shops, helping customers find what they need. As a major business center, Harare helps support jobs and trade, making it a busy hub for the country's economy! 🌾👔

Harare was founded in 1890 when British settlers arrived. The city was originally called Salisbury, named after a British Prime Minister, Lord Salisbury. 🏛

️ In 1980, Zimbabwe became independent from British rule, and the name changed to Harare. During the struggle for independence, many brave people fought for their freedom, and today Harare stands proud and free! The historic Rolf D. Neuhaus Museum helps tell the story of the city's past. 📚🏺

Education is important in Harare, and many schools are available for children. 🏫

The city has primary schools, high schools, and universities, like the University of Zimbabwe, which is the oldest university in the country, founded in 1952. 🎓

Students learn subjects like math, science, and English, preparing them for future jobs. Schools often promote sports and music, helping kids develop their talents. Education helps children grow and become responsible citizens, making Harare a great place for learning! 📚✏️

Getting around Harare is fun and easy! 🚗🚌 The city has various transportation options, like buses, taxis, and bikes. Many people use “combis,” which are small vans that carry passengers on specific routes. 🚐

Walking is also popular, especially in neighborhoods where schools and shops are close together. Harare has paved roads, making it easy for cars and buses to travel. For longer trips, there is an airport called Harare International Airport, where travelers can fly to other cities around the world! ✈

️

Harare is a colorful city full of life and creativity! 🎨

One of its famous events is the Harare International Festival of the Arts, where artists from all over the world showcase their talents. 🎭

The city celebrates music, dance, and theater, with popular traditional dances like the "mbira." Local crafts, like beautiful beadwork and paintings, can be found in markets, showing off the talent of Zimbabwean artists. ❤

️ People in Harare enjoy sharing their stories through art and music, making it a truly festive place! 🎶

Harare is governed by a mayor and a city council, who help make decisions for the city. 🏛

️ The mayor is elected by the people, and the city council consists of elected members representing different neighborhoods. They work together to improve Harare by planning for things like parks, roads, and schools. 🌆

The city also addresses important issues like cleanliness and safety, helping residents live happily and healthily. Being involved in local government helps the community grow and thrive! 🤝

Harare has exciting places for everyone to visit! ✨

A popular spot is the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, where you can see amazing art from local and international artists. 🎨

The Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences is cool too, featuring fossils and exhibits about the country's history. Nature lovers can explore the Mukuvisi Woodlands, a large park filled with trees and animals like zebras and antelopes. 🦓

Harare also has lively markets, like Mbare Musika, where you can find fresh fruits and colorful crafts! 🍉

Harare is located on a plateau, which means it is at a high elevation, about 1,490 meters (4,865 feet) above sea level. 🏔

️ The city has a warm climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons. ☔🌞 The rainy season occurs from November to March, bringing lots of water for plants and people! In the dry season, from April to October, it can get quite cool, especially at night. With beautiful parks and gardens, Harare’s landscape is full of trees, flowers, and hills! 🌼🌳