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Karigamombe Centre
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Landmark
Karigamombe Centre is a prominent high-rise office building in Harare's central business district. The name 'Karigamombe' is derived from the Shona language and literally means 'the one who fells the bull', which carries deep cultural and historical significance in the context of Zimbabwean independence and identity. The building was completed in the 1980s following the country's independence and served as a symbol of the new, modern Zimbabwe. With its striking architecture and central location near the First Street Mall, it is a major hub for business and trade. The high-rise provides modern office space for numerous government agencies, financial institutions, and private companies. Its structure defines the Harare skyline and is visible from afar. Karigamombe Centre exemplifies the post-independence era construction boom, where many monumental buildings were erected to mark the country's new era. Despite the emergence of newer skyscrapers, it remains a respected landmark of Zimbabwean architecture and history.
- Location: Zimbabwe
- Nearby: Epworth (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 22 | 23 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 180 | 133 | 94 | 31 | 7 | 3 | 19 | 2 | 5 | 25 | 94 | 195 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Karigamombe Centre is an office and commercial tower in central Harare, viewable from the outside. The interior is accessible to office tenants and registered visitors, but the public lobby is freely open.
Typical hours
The lobby is usually open during business hours on weekdays, about 8 am to 5 pm. On weekends and holidays, access is typically restricted.
Photography
Photography of the architecture from outside is easily possible. Inside the lobby, photography is generally allowed, but ask permission if security staff are present.
Time needed
A brief visit to see the facade and lobby takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Those wanting to appreciate the building as a city landmark can allocate 20 minutes.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk to Africa Unity Square or the nearby Harare Cathedral. The National Museum of Zimbabwe is also within walking distance.
Getting there
Karigamombe Centre is located in Harare's Central Business District, walkable from many hotels and attractions. Taxis and public buses stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit the building in the morning when the sun illuminates the facade. Be aware of security checks at the entrance and have an ID ready.
Geography
Facts
- The name Karigamombe means 'the one who fells the bull' in Shona.
- The building was completed in the early 1980s, shortly after independence.
- It is located at the corner of Samora Machel Avenue and Leopold Takawira Street.
- The high-rise primarily serves as an office complex for the financial sector.
- It is situated directly opposite the First Street Mall pedestrian area.
- The architecture reflects the late 1970s and early 1980s modern style.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Karigamombe Centre (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is the Karigamombe Centre?
A well-known office building and landmark in Harare.
Is it of interest to tourists?
It is an architectural point of reference for a city walk.
Can one visit the building inside?
Only as a business visitor or guest of firms based there.
Is it centrally located in Harare?
Yes, it is located right in the business district.
Are there shops there?
Yes, on the ground floor there are usually small shops.
Karigamombe Centre: where is it located?
Karigamombe Centre is located in Zimbabwe.
Karigamombe Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
Karigamombe Centre: why is it worth visiting?
Karigamombe Centre is a prominent high-rise office building in Harare's central business district.
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