Harare,  (New Ziana) Harare City Council has officially renamed several of the capital’s major roads in a move aimed at honouring African liberation heroes, national political figures, and influential global revolutionaries.

The changes announced this week, aims to preserve the city’s historical identity while embracing regional solidarity and post colonial pride.

Among the most prominent changes, Charter Road has been renamed Fidel Castro Road, in honour of the late Cuban revolutionary leader who supported African liberation movements.

Third Street is now known as Patrice Lumumba Street, commemorating the first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, who became a symbol of African independence.

Another central road, Five Avenue, has been renamed Leonid Brezhnev Street, after the former Soviet leader whose government supported several liberation efforts across Africa during the Cold War.

Speke Avenue now carries the name Agostinho Neto Avenue, after Angola’s first president and a key figure in the country’s fight for independence. Angwa Street has become Sir Seretse Khama Street, honouring Botswana’s founding president.

Rezende Street is now Julia Zvobgo Street, named after a veteran of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and a key figure in the country’s post-independence development. Selous Avenue has been renamed John Landa Nkomo Avenue, while Cameron Street now bears the name Joseph Msika Street, both figures being respected Zimbabwean leaders who contributed to national unity and governance.

Baines Avenue has been changed to Herbert Ushewokunze Avenue, recognising a former cabinet minister and national leader. Dieppe Road has been renamed Vitalis Zvinavashe Road, after the late commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.

Argyle Road is now Sydney Malunga Road, while Lorraine Drive becomes Mama Mafuyana Drive, in honour of the widow of the late nationalist Joshua Nkomo, who herself was a respected activist.

Forth Street is now Simon Vengai Muzenda Street, commemorating Zimbabwe’s long-serving Vice President. Enterprise Road has been renamed ED Mnangagwa Road, after the current President of Zimbabwe.

Kirkman Drive now bears the name Solomon Mujuru Drive, in recognition of the late military commander and political figure. Livingstone Avenue becomes Oliver Tambo Avenue, honouring the South African anti-apartheid hero.

Second Street has been renamed Sam Nujoma Street, after Namibia’s founding president. Innez Terrace is now known as Mayor Urimbo Terrace, named after a former local government leader.

New Ziana