Hey there! Exciting news is on the horizon for our friends in Zimbabwe! The Harare Zimbabwe Temple was announced during the 186th Annual General Conference on April 3, 2016, by the beloved Prophet Thomas S. Monson. This marked the beginning of a wonderful journey toward a new place of Temple Work for many.
Fast forward to December 12, 2020, when Elder Edward Dube, a native of Zimbabwe and a 1st Counselor in the African South Area Presidency, led the groundbreaking ceremony. His heartfelt words, “As we watch the rising of this building from the ground up, may we also turn our hearts upward to Thee and Thy Son, our Savior Jesus Christ,” perfectly captured the joy and hope of the moment! We were also thrilled to have President Mnangagwa join us to celebrate this milestone—his praises for the Church’s contributions to national development really showed how important this Temple is for the community. At the groundbreaking ceremony was President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, was also in attendance. President Mnangagwa praised the Church in his remarks, saying, “The contribution of the Church to national development and social well being of the citizenry cannot be overemphasized.”
Mark your calendars because the Harare Zimbabwe Temple will open its doors for a Public Open House from January 22 to February 7, 2026! Located at 65 Enterprise Road in Highlands, Harare, this beautiful temple spans 6.7 acres. It stands tall at 103 feet 4 inches and features a stunning design with one attached end spire (though it doesn’t have the gold-leafed Angel Moroni, which makes it unique). Inside, you’ll find two Instruction Rooms, two Sealing Rooms, and one baptistry, all nestled within a spacious 17,247 square feet.
The artistic rendering of the temple was revealed on October 1, 2020, and many are especially grateful for this beautiful new space since they previously had to travel 13 hours to get to the Johannesburg South African Temple! The Harare Zimbabwe Temple is not just a building; it’s the first of its kind in beautiful Zimbabwe and the eighth temple in Africa. It’s a big step for the local community, which now proudly boasts 26,000 members, along with six stakes and two districts.
And remember the unforgettable visit from Prophet Russell M. Nelson on April 17, 2018? That day was special as he toured the temple site, igniting even more excitement about what’s to come! The Harare Zimbabwe Temple is creating a welcoming place for all the Saints—a true sanctuary of hope and community. We can’t wait to see this beautiful Temple rise and thrive, bringing joy to so many!