THE curtain came down on the Harare International Carnival on Sunday after a month-long fête where art and culture lovers were treated to a diversity of shows with the street party held on Saturday icing the cake.
BY IDAH MHETU
Tourism and Hospitality minister Walter Mzembi described the day as one of excitement.
“It is just happiness today and the reason for this is to take the people away from the stress of day-to-day life and give them the momentary happiness that they seek so much in their lives,” he said. Thousands swarmed the streets in a weekend to remember, as the third edition of the carnival held under the theme Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow went out with a bang.
From the car racing show to the street performances, the excitement was palpable, as thousands temporarily shelved their socio-economic woes and the record-breaking heat to enjoy the carnival. International and local cultural groups showcased the diversity of their cultures through dance, music and traditional regalia. The street party started off with spins by car racers, showing off their skills on the wheel along Robert Mugabe Way through Angwa Street into Nelson Mandela Avenue.
Momo King, the crowd-pulling Brazilian samba outfit, paraded in the streets, presenting police details a serious headache, as they tried to control the public eager to catch a glimpse.
The Brazilian show stoppers also presented an opportunity for “Kodak moments” to those with smart phones who took pictures of the parade. The police and army bands also took to the streets to entertain the public, with the Zambian entourage giving a thrilling performance, gyrating to traditional songs. Man of the moment, Jah Prayzah, left fans clamouring for more following a thrilling performance at the Parliament Building.
