By Loyd Matare and Daphnne Nyakanyanga
Harare Mayor Councillor Jacob Mafume on Tuesday used the city’s Christmas lights switching-on ceremony at Africa Unity Square to reaffirm council’s commitment to improved service delivery in 2026, as the capital officially ushered in the festive season amid song, dance and public reflection.
The event drew hundreds of residents and featured performances by popular Zimdancehall artist Tocky Vibes and the City of Harare Municipal Band, turning the usually busy civic space into a night-long celebration of music, culture and seasonal cheer.
In brief remarks, Mafume said the ceremony was intended to unite residents after what he described as a challenging year for the city and its people.
“…It has been a difficult year, we know we have lost a number of people…some of us have not achieved our dreams, but the greatest blessing that we received this Christmas time is the blessing of life.
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“As we create light for others, we also light our own way by caring for the vulnerable, sharing what we have, celebrating responsibly, remaining peaceful, and working together to build a cleaner, better-serviced Harare for everyone.”
Turning to service delivery, Mafume said council was positioning itself for improved performance in the coming year, citing ongoing and planned interventions.
He pointed to progress on water supply systems, refuse collection and other essential municipal services, saying these would be central to council’s 2026 strategy.
“It has not been an easy year, it’s been a difficult year in particular for our council,” Mafume said.
“But we hope that next year will bring better prospects for both the council and the city.”
He also encouraged residents and corporate partners to support charitable initiatives during the festive season, particularly programmes aimed at assisting vulnerable groups in the city.
The switching on of the Christmas lights marked the official start of Harare’s festive calendar, with city officials expressing hope for a peaceful holiday period and a more responsive municipality in the new year.
