Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema will arrive in Harare on November 14, 2025, for a state visit at the invitation of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, marking a pivotal effort to repair bilateral relations that hit rock bottom after Zimbabwe’s contentious 2023 elections.
According to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, President Hichilema and President Mnangagwa will co-chair the inaugural session of the Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC).
The BNC elevates the existing Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) to a higher framework of strategic engagement aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation, accelerating infrastructure projects, and deepening economic integration.
However, the visit comes at a time when relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe had reached one of their lowest points in recent years. Tensions flared following Zimbabwe’s disputed 2023 general elections, during which the SADC Election Observation Mission, led by Zambia’s former Vice President Dr. Nevers Mumba, declared the polls did not meet regional standards for being free and fair.
The report drew a sharp reaction from Zimbabwe’s ruling ZANU PF and government officials, who launched a public attack on both President Hichilema, then serving as Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and Dr. Mumba, in a state-sponsored documentary that accused Zambia of political bias.
The two countries share deep historical ties, bound by geography, culture, and shared infrastructure such as the Kariba Dam and Victoria Falls.
“The visit underscores the shared vision of the two Heads of State to strengthen bilateral cooperation and promote inclusive growth within the Southern African region,” the statement read.
President Hichilema is expected to return to Lusaka immediately after concluding his engagements in Harare.
