The Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy (ZID) attended the World Portuguese Language Day celebrations hosted by the Embassies of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) in Harare on 5 May 2026. Held at the International School of Harare, the event also commemorated the 30th anniversary of the CPLP and featured a captivating Portuguese guitar performance by Ricardo Gama and João Correia, visiting artists from the Lusophone world. Students from the International School of Harare also showcased Zimbabwean culture through a vibrant mbira performance.

The occasion brought together diplomats, cultural institutions and distinguished guests in celebration of language, culture and international cooperation. Among the dignitaries present were the Ambassador of Turkey to Zimbabwe, Her Excellency Berna Kasnaklı Versteden, and the Ambassador of Brazil to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Vilmar Rogeiro Coutinho, alongside other members of the diplomatic community. ZID’s participation reflected its commitment to cultural diplomacy and strengthening relations with Lusophone countries.

Recognising the growing global importance of Portuguese as a language of diplomacy, trade and cultural exchange, ZID announced plans to introduce Portuguese into its language programmes alongside Russian and French. The initiative aims to broaden linguistic competencies among students while promoting the Portuguese language within Zimbabwe’s diplomatic and academic spaces.

Beyond diplomacy, the influence of the Portuguese-speaking world continues to resonate globally, particularly in sports through football legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Eusébio and Luís Figo. Through engagements such as these, ZID continues to position itself at the intersection of language, culture and diplomacy, fostering stronger international connections for Zimbabwe.