PRESIDENTIAL spokesman George Charamba ruled out both an election delay and a state of emergency after an explosion at the president's campaign rally yesterday.

Mr Charamba said that the historic July 30 vote will go ahead as planned despite the blast that occurred shortly after President Emmerson Mnangagwa addressed a stadium crowd in Bulawayo, an opposition stronghold.

At least 49 people, including both of Zimbabwe's vice-presidents, were injured in the explosion which the president said occurred just "inches" from him.

Dramatic footage showed him walking off the stage and into a crowded tent where the blast occurred seconds later, sending up smoke as people screamed and ran for cover.

Mr Mnangagwa was unscathed, pointing out he'd survived numerous attempts on his life in the past and was used to them by now.

Police spokeswoman Charity Charamba said investigations were continuing and a "substantial reward" was being offered for information.