The Green Cities Expo returns to Harare Gardens under the theme “Reclaim Our Future”, bringing together creatives, policymakers, civil society and climate justice activists to discuss sustainable and inclusive urban development.
The Expo, which marks 15 years of the Shoko Festival, will be held on Friday, 23 September, and will focus on low-carbon, people-centered solutions for African cities. Organizers said the event is designed to provide space for dialogue on climate justice, renewable energy, and creative resistance.
A Climate Memorial, powered by ActionAid, will serve as the day’s centerpiece, commemorating climate defenders and recognizing the losses linked to extractive industries and inaction on climate change. A poetry slam featuring Kenyan poet Mufasa and young spoken word artists will follow, highlighting themes of resilience and environmental justice.
Panel discussions include Power to the People, which will feature speakers from South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe addressing energy justice and renewable alternatives. Participants include Dean Bhebhe of Power Shift Africa, Katlego Malesa of Sekhukhune Combined Mining Affected Communities, Thato Gabaitse of We The World and The WE Campaign, Lorraine Chiponda of the Global Gas and Oil Network, and Frank Mphalo of Green Governance Africa.
Throughout the day, the Creative Resistance Pavilion will host demonstrations and exhibitions ranging from solar energy displays to eco-fashion, cosplay showcases, and upcycling workshops. Other sessions include a fireside chat with Green The Ghetto Movement on green space’s Tafadzwa Gwini and an Ignite Talk by Kenyan comedian Justine Wanda on the role of satire in climate justice.
Performances will feature local and regional artists, including Pandaz Dance Crew, the Shebeen Rap Duo, Dingo Duke, Dough Major, the Zimbabwe Skateboarding Association, and open mic acts led by Bhanshee.
The Expo is organized by Magamba Network, a Zimbabwean creative and digital activism organization, and will run alongside Shoko Festival, the country’s longest-running urban culture event.
