Mnangagwa Arrives In Zambia Ahead Of Hichilema’s Inauguration

LUSAKA, Zambia — September 1, 2026: Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Zambia to attend the inauguration of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.

Mnangagwa is among several regional and international leaders expected to witness Hichilema take the presidential oath for his second five-year term. The inauguration follows Hichilema’s victory in the August 13, 2026 general election.

His arrival adds to the high-level regional representation at the ceremony, which has brought together heads of state, government officials and other dignitaries from across Africa and beyond.

The Zambian government declared September 1 a public holiday to allow citizens to participate in and witness the historic ceremony. Thousands of people have gathered at National Heroes Stadium, with preparations and security arrangements put in place ahead of the event. 

The visit also highlights the longstanding relationship between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The two neighbouring countries have strengthened bilateral cooperation in areas including trade, agriculture, employment and youth development. Their relationship was elevated to a Bi-National Commission during a meeting between Hichilema and Mnangagwa in Zimbabwe in 2025. 

As regional leaders continue arriving in Lusaka, attention remains focused on National Heroes Stadium, where Hichilema and Vice-President-elect Mutale Nalumango are expected to take their oaths of office.

The ceremony marks the beginning of Hichilema’s second term and is expected to set the tone for the next five years of his administration.