On February 27, 2026, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding hosted a splendid celebration at the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe, marking both the Chinese Lantern Festival and International Women's Day. The event was graced by Hon. Monica Mutsvangwa, Zimbabwean Minister for Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Hon. Monica Mavhunga, Minister for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, as well as prominent Zimbabwean women representatives and distinguished women leaders from various sectors. 

Ambassador Zhou extended his warm festive greetings and best wishes to all guests, underscoring China's remarkable achievements in advancing women's cause and its unwavering commitment to supporting Zimbabwean women. He called on women and youth from both countries to act upon the spirit of cooperation embodied in Chinese President Xi Jinping's reply letter to veterans of Zimbabwe's liberation struggle, and to work hand in hand in building an all-weather China-Zimbabwe partnership and an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era.

Minister Mutsvangwa and other distinguished guests hailed the event as a wonderful platform to celebrate the grace and vitality of Chinese and Zimbabwean women, which promotes mutual respect and deepens cultural exchange. They expressed their firm confidence that women from both countries will continue to strengthen ties and open a new and promising chapter in Zimbabwe-China relations.

The celebration came live with the enchanting blend of the melodious Chinese Guqin and the vibrant beats of African drums, as women from both cultures showcased their traditional attire in a dazzling fashion display. A Chinese diplomat's child moved the audience with a performance of the Zimbabwean national anthem in Shona, while Zimbabwean singers captivated the crowd with beloved Chinese songs, earning resounding applause. Guests immersed themselves in authentic Chinese cultural activities, including calligraphy, paper-cutting, traditional tea ceremonies, and Chinese New Year painting, with many joining the chopstick skill challenge. The venue was filled with the delightful aroma of dumplings and tangyuan, creating a warm and convivial atmosphere that resonated with everyone present.