The British Embassy in Harare was infused with a fresh spirit of partnership during the King Charles’s Birthday Party 2025, demonstrating that the UK and Zimbabwe are strengthening their ties, particularly in trade, investment, and cultural linkages.
The event was hosted by Peter Vowles, the UK ambassador to Zimbabwe demonstrating that the United Kingdom is committed to developing a contemporary and equitable cooperation with Zimbabwe.
Lord Collins of Highbury, the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, delivered a significant address. His visit to Zimbabwe was the first by a UK minister in seven years, demonstrating the UK’s desire to cooperate more closely with Zimbabwe on an equal footing.
According to Lord Collins, the UK seeks a new approach to collaboration that prioritizes active listening, long-term support, and respect. He stated that commerce and investment will be the backbone of this alliance.
Trade between the two countries is already worth $500 million per year and is anticipated to increase. Zimbabwean goods can enter the UK with no tariffs or restrictions, which benefits local firms.
Minister Ndlovu invited the United Kingdom to invest in Zimbabwe during his speech, emphasizing the country’s desire to welcome international partners. He reiterated that President Mnangagwa’s persistent statement that “Zimbabwe is open for business,” while emphasizing continued efforts to create a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly environment.
He identified key sectors for investment, including agriculture, mining, energy, and tourism, and reassured potential investors that the government is dedicated to policy reforms and infrastructure development to enable long-term prosperity. His speech emphasized Zimbabwe’s aim for meaningful partnerships that lead to shared prosperity, rather than simply commercial transactions.
Kuminda, for example, is a farming company that works with small farmers in Zimbabwe to deliver fresh vegetables to UK supermarkets. The United Kingdom also promotes Zimbabwean farming systems such as Pfumvudza, which enables over a million families to raise food more effectively.
British investors are also considering investing $1 billion in Zimbabwe’s renewable energy, infrastructure, and mining industries, demonstrating their confidence in Zimbabwe’s future.
The celebration recognized not only commerce but also the deep cultural and personal ties between the two countries.
One touching moment came when Linda Muzenda, a Zimbabwean-born singer who got a Golden Buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent, sang both national anthems. The ceremony also recognized Zimbabwean healthcare personnel who received training in the United Kingdom and returned to serve back home.
Three people were particularly honored: King Charles III, who represents tradition and change; King Lartey, a local staff member who shares the King’s birthday; and Jo “King Jay” Hussain, a UK-based Zimbabwean chef who created the event’s soundtrack and promotes Zimbabwean cuisine overseas.
Music from the Churchill Pipe Band and St. George’s Marimba Band mixed Scottish and Zimbabwean sounds, demonstrating the cultural fusion. The menu also featured British and Zimbabwean delicacies, emphasizing the spirit of collaboration.
Sport was also recognized, particularly the recent historic cricket match between Zimbabwe and England in Nottingham, which was the first in 22 years. Ambassador Vowles described how Zimbabwean fans in the UK reproduced the renowned “Castle Corner” atmosphere during the match.
Finally, Lord Collins toasted President Mnangagwa and the Zimbabwean people, expressing hope for the future.
The King’s Birthday Party 2025 was more than just a party; it conveyed a message. The UK is not just reconnecting with Zimbabwe but also establishing a new type of partnership based on mutual respect, success, and cultural connection. With commerce, business, and people closer than ever, a new chapter in UK-Zimbabwe relations has begun.
As Ambassador Vowles stated, this is merely the beginning.