Zimfest

Zimfest was established in 2001 by a diverse group of Zimbabweans based in the UK. The idea came about when Ros ‘Chairman Mao’ Smith from Harare had an idea for a beer festivals. It started with 700 Zimbabweans on a field behind a prison in Wandsorth in south-west London. Since then, the celebration has come to feature rugby, soccer and cricket tournaments and an array of fun for the whole family in what is now known to be one of the friendliest events in London.

Zimfest offers a place for Zimbabweans in the UK to respect each other’s differences while embracing and enjoying the things they love - food, sport, and music - to take everyone ‘home’ for a day without having to travel too long a distance. The festival also welcomes anyone who has been to or has an interest in Zimbabwe.

The most important aspect of Zimfest is that it is charity. Funds raised at Zimfest and other events organised by the team are channelled towards supporting Zimbabwe in the following areas: freedom of expression, community development and human rights.

Zimfest has grown to become one of the biggest African festivals, attracting thousands around the globe in a uniquely African celebration. Testament to the success of the event is that strategic partnerships have been established to give the event a unique global presence. It has taken place in various cities across the globe: London, Cape Town, Perth, Brisbane, Oslo and Harare, attracting Zimbabweans as well as locals in a truly multicultural celebration of Zimbabwean and African music and culture.