Zimbabwe knew a point from their home game against Kenya would be enough to secure a spot in the top two of Group J, and they earned a 1-1 draw against the Harambee Stars to ensure they advance alongside Cameroon.
Elsewhere, Botswana missed the chance to book their second Nations Cup appearance after drawing 1-1 at home against Mauritania in group C.
Cape Verde They were eliminated after a 1-1 draw at home against already qualified Egypt, who did not call up Mohamed Salah and rested in-form striker Omar Marmoush.
Botswana now need a point from their trip to Egypt on Tuesday to qualify, while Mauritania will finish second in the group if they win at home against Cape Verde and the Zebras are defeated in Cairo.
Meanwhile, South Africa won 2-0 in Uganda in Group K and Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz scored two goals as host of the tournament Morocco came from behind to win 5-1 against Gabon in group B.
The four teams had already secured their classification before the start.
There are only two qualifying matches on Saturday, both in Group H.
Ethiopia will play at home against Tanzania (16:00 GMT) and Guinea will host the already qualified Democratic Republic of the Congo (19:00 GMT).
If Tanzania drops points, Guinea can qualify for the final by beating the Leopards.
