Groundbreaking of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple
The groundbreaking of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple was presided over by Elder Edward Dube, first counselor in the Africa South Area presidency and a Zimbabwe native, on Dec. 12, 2020. His Excellency Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, was also in attendance and spoke to the congregation.
In his remarks to those in attendance, Elder Dube said, “The Harare Zimbabwe Temple will be a beautiful and stunning building. Like every temple, it will stand not only as a manifestation of the faith of Latter-day Saints who live close by in this country and the neighboring countries of Malawi, Zambia and Mozambique, but also a manifestation of the faith of Saints all around the world.”
The Harare Zimbabwe Temple is scheduled to be dedicated March 1, 2026, by Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Timeline of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple
The Harare Zimbabwe Temple was announced April 3, 2016, by Church President Thomas S. Monson. The groundbreaking and site dedication for this house of the Lord were held on Dec. 12, 2020, and presided over by Elder Edward Dube, first counselor in the Africa South Area presidency.
After a public open house from Jan. 22 to Feb. 7, 2026, the Harare Zimbabwe Temple will be dedicated Jan. 19, 2026, by Elder Gerrit W. Gong of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.
Architecture and Design of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple
A single-story building of approximately 17,250 square feet, the Harare temple draws from the architecture and Indigenous culture of Zimbabwe, including a design motif of simple triangular patterns. The geometric styles in art glass include a floral motif of the national flower, the flame lily.
Inside the building, sculpted carpet designs in neutral tones — with both geometric elements and floral motifs — complement the art glass. Floral patterns carry over to the entry rug, with Harare-native designs of the flame lily, aloe ballii, Yoruba bologi, African lettuce, terracotta gazania, aspilia mossambicensis and wentzel’s sugarbush.
Hues throughout the temple reflect local flora and fauna and the region’s landscape. These are reflected in some art pieces as well, and many of the approximately 45 paintings focus on the Savior. Adorning the 6.7-acre site are locally sourced plants, including feather duster and jacaranda trees.
Interior Photos of the Harare Zimbabwe Temple
