Zimbabwe International Film Festival (ZIFF)

The Zimbabwe International Film Festival (ZIFF) is Harare’s annual celebration of African and international independent cinema, running across four days each November. The festival has been a fixture in Zimbabwe’s cultural calendar for over two decades, providing a platform for local filmmakers to reach audiences while bringing international independent films to a Harare audience that has limited access to arthouse cinema year-round.

Programme and format

ZIFF screens a curated selection of feature films, short films and documentaries from Zimbabwe, Africa and internationally. The programme typically includes a competitive section for African short films, with jury prizes awarded at a closing ceremony. Alongside screenings, the festival runs filmmaker Q&A sessions, panel discussions on the state of African cinema and the local industry, and practical workshops on scriptwriting, cinematography and distribution for emerging Zimbabwean filmmakers.

The emphasis on local industry development is a defining feature of ZIFF. Many Zimbabwean directors who have gone on to work internationally first had their short films screened here, and the festival maintains close ties with the country’s film schools and independent production community.

Venue and practical information

Screenings take place at cinemas and cultural venues across Harare, including the Harare International Conference Centre and various embassy cultural centres. The full programme is announced on the ZIFF website (zifft.co.zw) and official social channels in the weeks before the festival opens. Ticket prices for individual screenings are modest; festival passes covering multiple screenings are also available.

November marks the beginning of Zimbabwe’s rainy season, with afternoon thunderstorms common in Harare. Mornings are generally clear, and temperatures sit around 28-30°C. The rain typically arrives in short, sharp bursts rather than all-day downpours, so the outdoor movement between venues is manageable with an umbrella.

Harare offers a full range of accommodation and restaurants within easy reach of the main festival venues. Our Zimbabwe in November guide covers weather conditions and what else the country offers during this month.