Outgoing UK envoy Vowles bids farewell, praises Zimbabwe

Outgoing British Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Pete Vowles, used King Charles III's Birthday Party celebrations in Harare on Thursday to express gratitude to Zimbabweans and reflect on what he described as an enriching and memorable three-year diplomatic posting.

Addressing guests at the event, Ambassador Vowles thanked Zimbabweans from all walks of life for their support, friendship and collaboration during his tenure, saying the experience had left a lasting impression on him and his family.

"My first job today is to thank each and every one of you for all you do for the United Kingdom and for Zimbabwe, this beautiful country that we are all fortunate to know in different ways," he said.

The ambassador paid tribute to Government officials, business leaders, development partners and ordinary citizens who had contributed to strengthening relations between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom.

"Thank you to our honourable friends and colleagues in the Government of Zimbabwe, and to all those working with us to advance our mutual interests," he said.

Vowles said the relationship between the two countries had been strengthened through collaboration across a range of sectors, including trade, development, education, health and culture.

He also acknowledged Zimbabweans who had generously shared their perspectives and experiences with him, saying their engagement had helped him gain a deeper understanding of the country.

The ambassador highlighted the role played by British companies and organisations operating in Zimbabwe, noting their contribution to economic development and community initiatives.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, Vowles spoke warmly about Zimbabwean culture, traditions and hospitality. He recalled developing a fondness for sungura music, which he said had become a regular feature of his life during his stay in the country.

He also shared some of the practical lessons he had learned while living in Zimbabwe, including local ways of improvising solutions to everyday challenges and adapting to life on the road.

Among the lighter moments of his speech, Vowles joked about learning how to open a bottle using another bottle, dry meat on a hanger and share a drink respectfully with elders.

He praised Zimbabwean cuisine, singling out locally made peanut butter as among the best he had ever tasted.

"The world's best peanut butter is made by hand using local peanuts and salt," he remarked.

The ambassador said one of the most striking aspects of Zimbabwe was the sense of connection he encountered across different communities.

"Wherever you go in Zimbabwe, from the buzzing high-density suburbs to the rural communal areas, to the affluent neighbourhoods, I always find a connection," he said.

Vowles noted that this year's King's Birthday Party carried particular significance as it would be his final celebration of the occasion in Zimbabwe before the conclusion of his diplomatic assignment.

The event brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders and representatives from civil society to celebrate the birthday of King Charles III and the longstanding ties between Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom.

As he prepares to leave the country, Vowles said he would take with him fond memories of Zimbabwe and the many relationships formed during his three years in Harare.