Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
After a two-year hiatus, the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) made a triumphant return on Saturday, staging a glamorous ceremony that celebrated artistic excellence and fashion, and reaffirmed the city’s position as a cultural powerhouse.
The much-anticipated event marked a significant comeback for the awards, which were forced to postpone last year’s edition after losing major sponsors. Instead of folding, the organisers used the break strategically, mobilising resources, rethinking the awards’ direction and giving creatives time to produce stronger, more competitive work for consideration in 2025.
Despite the financial hurdles, the BAAs returned in style, delivering a breathtaking night that restored confidence in the revival and rebranding of the platform. The ceremony not only honoured artistic achievement but also symbolised hope for the sustainability of arts recognition in Bulawayo.
As has become tradition, arts enthusiasts turned out in large numbers to cheer their favourite artistes while also embracing the event as a fashion showcase. Guests arrived dressed to impress, turning the awards into a vibrant celebration of style and self-expression.
At the entrance, attendees were met by the fashion police led by businesswoman and fashion icon Mitchelle Tshuma and United Kingdom-based model Oliver Keith. The duo impressed with their sharp eye for detail, offering honest and engaging commentary on the dress codes and fashion choices of artistes and guests.
The evening was steered by radio personality Benkosi “Bkay” Maphosa and Zee Gumede, with the programme anchored by celebrated poetess Lady Tshawe. Their chemistry and contrasting styles worked seamlessly, keeping the audience engaged while ensuring the programme flowed smoothly.
Behind the scenes, the spectacle was elevated by impressive choreography and stage management led by arts doyen Saimon “Mambazo” Phiri and choreographer Mehluli “Gomez” Dube, whose creative direction ensured a polished and energetic production. Performances were a major highlight of the night, with dance and music energy perfectly synchronised. Outstanding Hip Hop Act winner Noluntu J delivered a commanding performance, while Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu, who scooped Outstanding Tshibilika Music, thrilled the crowd. Godolude also left fans mesmerised with his stage presence, backed by the Friendly Brothers band.
All performances were expertly curated and managed by DJ Sida, whose technical precision ensured seamless transitions and maintained the momentum of the show throughout the night.
In a touching tribute to fallen legends, several major categories were renamed to honour their lifelong contributions to the arts. These included the Pathisa Nyathi Outstanding Literary Work, Sihlangu Dlodlo (Qhube) Outstanding Theatre Production, Babongile Sikhonjwa Outstanding Radio DJ, Desire “Moyoxide” Outstanding Poet and the Ishmael Muvingi (Litshe) Outstanding Dance Ensemble.
Among the night’s winners were Black Diva (Outstanding Newcomer), Bhila (Outstanding Alternative), Mjoks (Outstanding Radio DJ) and Kotwane Hikwa (Outstanding Club DJ), among others.
The Outstanding Ambassador (Worldwide) accolade was jointly awarded to Nitefreak and Everton Mlalazi. Nitefreak was recognised for his extensive global tours over the past two years, while Mlalazi was honoured for spreading the
Gospel internationally through his solo work and collaborations with Spirit of Praise.
Seasoned arts administrator Josh Nyapimbi received a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his immense contribution to the growth of the local arts industry, particularly through donor-funded initiatives that have uplifted creatives from marginalised communities.
Zimpapers Online scooped the Outstanding Online Media award, cementing its influence and commitment to promoting artistes in the digital space. Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub scribes Langalakhe Mabena, Mthabisi Tshuma and Mbulelo Mpofu were nominated in the Outstanding Arts Journalist (All Media) category, which was won by ZBCtv’s Lisa Masuku-Kurira.
Adding star power to the evening was the appearance of Mzansi township disco musician Freddie “Madamara” Gwala, who presented several awards. Traditional leader Chief Dakamela of Nkayi also captivated the audience with a grand entrance, accompanied by his praise poet Ashley Siwela, who recited his totems in a moment that blended culture and ceremony.
The biggest winner of the night was DJ Mzoe, who walked away with the People’s Choice Award after topping the ballot vote. His victory was capped with the keys to a brand new Toyota Aqua.
The 2025 BAAs proved that even in the face of adversity, Bulawayo’s arts community remains resilient, vibrant and deserving of a platform that celebrates its excellence.
Full List of 2025 Bulawayo Arts Awards winners
1. Outstanding Arts Photographer
Elliot Moyo
2. Outstanding Female Dancer
Albertina Manombe – Simunye Simunye
3. Outstanding Male Dancer
Allen Mahwehwe – Simunye Simunye
4. “Litshe” Outstanding Dance Ensemble
No Name Crew
5. Outstanding Theatre Actress
Praise Ncube – Ipi Intombi
6. Outstanding Theatre Actor
Josphat Ndlovu – Without A State
7. “Qhube” Outstanding Theatre Production
Ipi Intombi
8. Outstanding Comedian
Mbongeni Ignatious
9. Outstanding Online Content Creator
Chik Aljoy
10. “Moyoxide” Outstanding Poet
Sonkomose
11. “Pathisa Nyathi” Outstanding Literary Work
Philani A Nyoni – Testament of Black Jesus
12. Outstanding Arts Journalist (All Media)
Lisa Masuku-Kurira
13. Outstanding Online Media
Zimpapers
14. “Babongile Sikhonjwa” Outstanding Radio DJ
Mjox
15. Outstanding Club DJ
Kotwane Hikwa
16. Outstanding Fashion House/Designer
Indwangu By Mthobi
17. Outstanding Model
Sakhile Dube
18. Outstanding Ambassador (Worldwide)
Nitefreak & Everton Mlalazi.
19. Outstanding Hip Hop Artist/Act
Noluntu J
20. Outstanding Kwaito/House/Gqom/Amapiano
MJ Sings
21. Outstanding Alternative Music
Bhila
22. Outstanding Gospel Artist
Vusa Mangena
23. Outstanding Imbube/Acapella/Act
Amaculo Enjabulo
24. Outstanding Tshibilika/Rhumba Act
Mxolisi Mr Bones
25. Outstanding Music Producer
Just Percy
26. Outstanding Music Video
Harvest House Music – Revival Party
27. Outstanding Song of the Year
Jayvee – Ungayithi Vuuu
28. Outstanding TV Production/Programme
A Trap of Trade
29. Outstanding Film/TV Production
Sasha Juliet Zulu on Freedom Comes Dancing
30. Outstanding Film/TV Actor
Sikhanyiso Ngwenya on Rise
31. Outstanding Newcomer (Across All Genres)
Black Diva
32. Outstanding Male Artist
Mzoe 7
33. Outstanding Female Artist
Abigail Mabuza
34. Life Time Achievement Award
Josh Nyapimbi
35. People’s Choice Award
DJ Mzoe 7
