Harare residents warned of a military convoy during Defence Forces Day rehearsals

By Southerton Business Times | Harare, Zimbabwe | August 8, 2026

HARARE residents and motorists have been urged not to panic as soldiers and military equipment move through parts of the capital during rehearsals for the 2026 Defence Forces Day celebrations.

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) said military personnel and equipment will be travelling through the city from Saturday, August 8, to Tuesday, August 11, as part of preparations for this year's Defence Forces Day commemorations. The rehearsal procession will move from Charles Gumbo Barracks to Rufaro Stadium, where the main celebrations will be held.

Military convoy to use major Harare roads

According to the ZDF, the movement will begin at Charles Gumbo Barracks, formerly known as 1 Commando Regiment. From the barracks, the procession will travel along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Expressway, previously known as Airport Road. The route will then proceed onto Vitalis Zvinavashe Road, formerly Dieppe Avenue, before continuing along Cripps Road and Remembrance Drive towards Rufaro Stadium.

Residents and motorists using the affected roads are therefore likely to encounter soldiers, military vehicles and other equipment during the rehearsal period. The planned movement could also result in temporary disruptions or slower traffic along sections of the route as the military procession makes its way towards the stadium.

ZDF urges public not to panic

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces said the military presence in the city is part of routine preparations for the annual national commemorations. In a statement issued on Friday, August 7, the ZDF urged members of the public to remain calm.

“The general public is, therefore, urged not to panic, but rather join and celebrate together with the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.”

The rehearsals are expected to continue through Tuesday, when Zimbabwe will mark Defence Forces Day 2026.

Defence Forces Day is an annual national event that provides an opportunity to recognise members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and their contribution to national security and public service. The movement of military personnel and equipment through Harare is therefore expected to increase as the country prepares for this year's commemorations.

Motorists urged to plan ahead

Motorists travelling along Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Expressway, Vitalis Zvinavashe Road, Cripps Road and Remembrance Drive have been encouraged to take note of the scheduled rehearsals and allow additional time for their journeys. Residents living along the route are also likely to see increased military activity during the four-day rehearsal period. The ZDF has sought to reassure the public that the movements are linked to Defence Forces Day preparations and urged residents to remain calm.

Further announcements may be issued if there are changes to the rehearsal arrangements or traffic management measures. Southerton Business Times will provide updates on traffic movements and Defence Forces Day activities as more information becomes available.

Harare military convoy