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Runhare House

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Landmark
—°7
Runhare House (Zimbabwe)

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Runhare House is an iconic skyscraper in Harare that serves as the headquarters for the national telecommunications companies TelOne and NetOne. The building is a standout example of Zimbabwe's modern high-rise architecture from the 1990s. Its distinctive facade, often complemented by technical antenna systems on the roof, symbolizes the country's technological progress. It is located on the central Samora Machel Avenue, one of the capital's main thoroughfares. In addition to administrative offices, Runhare House houses critical infrastructure for the Zimbabwean telephone and data network. The name 'Runhare' means 'telephone' in the Shona language, directly reflecting the building's primary purpose. In Harare's skyline, it is easily recognizable due to its slender shape and height. The building is considered a symbol of the privatization and modernization of the Zimbabwean communications sector.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C212120191614141620222322
Rain mm18013394317319252594195

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Runhare House is a historic building that can be viewed from the outside. The interior is currently not open to the public.
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Typical hours
Since the building is still in use, there are no regular visiting hours. It is best viewed from the street during typical business hours.
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Photography
Photographing the facade from the street is allowed at any time. The colonial architecture with verandas and columns is a popular photo subject.
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Time needed
The visit is limited to a quick exterior viewing, taking about 10-15 minutes. The building can easily be included in a walk through central Harare.
Combine with
Combine the viewing with a visit to Africa Unity Square or Harare Cathedral. The National Museum of Zimbabwe is also nearby.
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Getting there
Runhare House is centrally located in Harare at the intersection of Samora Machel Avenue and Julius Nyerere Way. It is easily reachable by taxi or on foot from the city center.
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Insider tip
Since the building is not public, politely ask at the offices inside for a possible interior tour. Often you can at least glance into the lobby.

Geography

Coordinates
-17.83300, 31.04900

Facts

  • The word 'Runhare' literally translates to 'telephone' in Shona.
  • It serves as the headquarters for the state-owned TelOne group.
  • The building is located on Samora Machel Avenue.
  • It was completed in the late 1990s.
  • Numerous microwave antennas are located on the roof.
  • The facade consists of a combination of concrete and blue glass elements.

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Sights in the town Runhare House (7)

Toys Town

Toy store in Harare with a large selection of toys for children and collectors.

AIRFORCE

Military facility in Harare, associated with the Zimbabwean Air Force.

National Gallery of Zimbabwe🏛 museum

Art museum in Harare, showcasing contemporary and traditional Zimbabwean art.

🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00

Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences🏛 museum

Museum in Harare, presenting human evolution and archaeology of Zimbabwe.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:00-16:30

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Church in Harare, Zimbabwe, serving as a Catholic cathedral.

City View Point

Viewpoint in Harare, offering a look over the city and its surroundings.

Castle Corner

Viewpoint in Harare, from which the city skyline can be seen.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Runhare House?
A well-known office building with administrative offices.
Where is it located?
In the central business district of Harare.
Is it a museum?
No, it is purely an office building.
Can one visit it?
Visitors are allowed only in public areas of firms.
Is it architecturally significant?
It is part of the typical cityscape of Harare.
Runhare House: where is it located?
Runhare House is located in Zimbabwe.
Runhare House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Toys Town, AIRFORCE, National Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Runhare House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
Runhare House: why is it worth visiting?
Runhare House is an iconic skyscraper in Harare that serves as the headquarters for the national telecommunications companies TelOne and NetOne.
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