The capital of Zimbabwe is spelled Harare (/həˈrɑːreɪ/), with the primary stress on the second syllable. In IPA phonetic transcription, the first syllable is pronounced as "hə" which represents the short sound of the schwa. The second syllable is pronounced with the sound /ˈrɑː/ which represents the long "a" sound followed by the letter "r". The third syllable is pronounced "reɪ" which represents the long "e" sound followed by the letter "y". The capital city of Zimbabwe was named after the Shona chieftain Neharawa who was a local chief of the area.
The term "Capital of Zimbabwe" refers to the designated political, administrative, and often economic center of the country of Zimbabwe, located in southern Africa. The capital city serves as the seat of government and houses key institutions, such as the national parliament, presidential offices, and judicial organizations. It is usually the largest urban area in the country and attracts significant population growth due to governmental activities and associated economic opportunities.
As of August 2021, the capital of Zimbabwe is Harare. Founded in 1890 as a fort during British colonial rule, Harare became the capital upon Zimbabwe's independence in 1980. The city is situated in the northeastern part of the country, within the Mashonaland region.
Harare acts as Zimbabwe's administrative hub and plays a vital role in the country's political and economic landscape. It houses important governmental and diplomatic institutions, including various ministries, foreign embassies, and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe. The city also serves as a vibrant commercial and cultural center, hosting a range of industries, businesses, universities, and cultural events.
Furthermore, Harare is recognized for its architectural landmarks, museums, parks, and recreational spaces, attracting tourists both locally and internationally. The city's population has continued to grow over the years, leading to urban expansion and development to accommodate the increasing demands of a modern capital.