GREEN Cities Expo co-ordinator Trust Chikodzo believes the future of cities across Africa shall be defined by how boldly we reimagine them and in like manner, also realises that culture gives us the tools to dream, and socially-owned renewables give us the pathway to act.
Chikodzo affirmed that together, we can reclaim our future and ensure a just transition that creates millions of decent green jobs for young people.
As part of the Shoko Festival, slated for September 25 to 27, the Green Cities Expo, a brainchild of the Magamba Network, returns to Harare Gardens on September 26 running under the theme Reclaim Our Future.
The expo brings together speakers and creatives from across Africa, creating a space where creatives, policymakers, civil society, climate justice activists and the public reimagine African cities that are more just, low-carbon and people-powered.
Other highlights include Fireside Chat with Tafadzwa Gwini, from Green the Ghetto Movement, on green spaces as resistance and healing, and Ignite Talk by Kenyan comedian Justine Wanda on using satire in the fight for climate justice.
Adding rhythm, vibrancy and movement to the day will be a series of creative pop-up performances and showcases.
These include a dance performance by Pandaz Dance Crew, pop-up sets by the Shebeen Rap Duo, Dingo Duke and Dough Major, a showcase from the Zimbabwe Skateboarding Association, Cosplay by Otakukon, and an Open Mic session hosted by Bhanshee, featuring SKII the Artist and many more.
Each moment will spark energy and remind audiences of the power of creativity in driving climate justice.
- Banshee uses poetry to fight human rights violations
- Multi-talented youth launches a book
- Poetry slam champion adds spark to Shoko Fest
- Sacrificial poetry to reclaim future at the Future Green Cities Expo
Keep Reading
Said Chikodzo: “This year’s expo underscores the truth that the future is not inherited, but built. The Climate Memorial, powered by ActionAid, will stand as the emotional centrepiece of the day.
“It will pay tribute to climate defenders while mourning the frontline losses caused by extractivism and inaction.
“This solemn yet defiant moment will be followed by a Poetry Slam, with the renowned Mufasa Poet from Kenya as the sacrificial poet, alongside young spoken word artists confronting the realities of a dying planet while lifting up radical hope and resilience as acts of community resistance.”
In times like these, when the earth whispers both grief and longing, the role of artists and creatives becomes not only vital, but sacred.
Accurate and comprehensive communications on climate change which are delivered with soul, clarity and courage have the power to pierce through indifference and awaken a deeper, more human response.
Through music, poetry, satire and performance, creatives can translate statistics into stories and headlines into heartbeats.
The Green Cities Expo, anchored by the powerful theme Reclaim Our Future, is a call to remember our duty as custodians of the planet and each other.
The Power to the People panel discussion will bring together leading voices on energy justice across the region.
Dean Bhebhe of Power Shift Africa (South Africa), Katlego Malesa of Sekhukhune Combined Mining Affected Communities (South Africa), Thato Gabaitse of We The World & The WE Campaign (Botswana), Lorraine Chiponda of Global Gas and Oil Network (Zimbabwe) and Frank Mphalo of Green Governance Africa (Zimbabwe) will highlight how extractive energy systems undermine Africa’s future.
The panel will spotlight how decentralised renewable energy solutions can power justice, jobs and thriving local economies for everyone.
The Creative Resistance Pavilion will run throughout the day as a hub of imagination, rebellion and innovation.
Attendees will engage with renewable energy demonstrations by CICADA Solar, co-create greener futures through upcycling and art with Gwen Mushonga, explore eco-fashion and cosplay showcases, visit organisational exhibitions and experience the Kick Polluters Out digital zone, celebrating collective action and resilience.
