Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAAs) have extended their nominations deadline by a week, now closing on September 15, 2025, as organisers seek to maximise participation ahead of the event’s highly anticipated return.
The extension, announced on the awards’ official Facebook page on Monday, was attributed to technical challenges.
“We are back. Due to a technical hitch on our site, the Bulawayo Arts Awards 2025 nominations period has been extended to 15 September 2025,” read the statement.
Organisers also issued a rallying call to creatives: “If you haven’t submitted yet, this is your chance, don’t miss out on being part of Bulawayo’s biggest celebration of creative excellence.”
The eighth edition of the BAAs is set for November 8, 2025, at Hall 3, Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
This announcement has brought renewed optimism to the arts community, which has long awaited confirmation of the event’s return following a year of uncertainty.
In 2024, the future of the BAAs hung in the balance after the withdrawal of United Refineries Limited’s Roil cooking oil brand, a long-time principal sponsor. This, coupled with financial and operational challenges, forced organisers to postpone the awards. The BAA Trust clarified that the decision was also influenced by “limited representation across certain genres”, prompting a strategic revamp for 2025 to ensure inclusivity.
With nominations extended, attention now turns to the next milestones. Nominees will be officially revealed on October 8, 2025, during the traditional nominees’ dinner. The evening will also see the unveiling of the People’s Choice Award sponsor and the announcement of a second wave of event sponsors – crucial for bolstering the event’s financial stability. – Follow on X: @MbuleloMpofu
Bongani Ndlovu