Harare, Zimbabwe 2017

Returning once again to where it all began for me—the African Regional Intellectual Property Office in Harare, Zimbabwe, where every visit is an awareness-elevating and often inspiring adventure that reshapes how I view the world. I also had a chance to meet with the new Director General of ARIPO, Fernando dos Santos, who took over from previous DG Gift Sibanda, who presided over the course of my previous visits. It was also loved reconnecting with my Examiner friends at ARIPO and once again seeing the jacaranda trees’ purple bloom.

My last day in Harare coincided with the Harare International Carnival, the route of which passed my hotel. I initially watched from the veranda of my hotel but was soon drawn in to join the crowds in the streets. I was warmly received by the crowds as I seemed to be a bit of a novelty in downtown Harare, though I lack the faintest clue as to why. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

A picture can capture a thousand words—and a video perhaps more. In that spirit, the following clips provide a glimpse into a Zimbabwean celebration

Dancing drummers at the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe.
More dancing in the streets at the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Remarkable stilt walker at the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe
Brief snippet from one of the music performance stages in downtown Harare, Zimbabwe during the 2017 Carnival.

Music and dance scene from the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe

Costumed troupe with another stilt walker at the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The Brazilian dancers drew one of the biggest followings, though I in no way wish to promote objectification of women, the enthusiasm of the crowd here is re...
Watching a rolling act amidst what felt like a mosh pit at the 2017 International Carnival in Harare, Zimbabwe.