26 Feb 2012

Mugabe's 88th birthday marked

1:11 pm on 26 February 2012

Celebrations have been held in Zimbabwe to mark the official 88th birthday of President Robert Mugabe.

A party was held in a football stadium in the city of Mutare, 270 km east of Harare.

The ABC reports the event began with a fashion show and the launch of a signature brand of clothing named after the president.

It also included a football match. More than 20,000 people attended and the stadium was packed.

In a rambling speech, Mr Mugabe declared himself invigorated and energised, and ready to contest an election later this year.

He also attacked foreigners and accused foreign NGOs of trying to destabilise the country.

Mr Mugabe has ruled Zimbabwe for more than 30 years.