Chronicle Editor
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
Organisers of the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) are exploring the introduction of a fashion category following criticism from the fashion community. The move comes after renowned traditional attire specialist Zana Kay expressed her disappointment with the Namas’ treatment of fashion as an art form.
Zana Kay, who designed the cowhide suit worn by National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) executive director Napoleon Nyanhi at the 23rd Namas, called attention to the perceived oversight of fashion in the awards.
In her social media post, Zana Kay highlighted the cultural and creative value of fashion, pointing to Zimbabwean designs like the hut paintings of the Matobo women and Freddy Sozinio Jackson’s Zimbabwean flag beading.
“Fashion is about creativity, aesthetic expression, and storytelling. I’d have loved to see Miss Universe Zimbabwe’s famous National Dress (which she wore at the global contest) on the red carpet . . . it is wearable art and got the nation talking.”
In response, NACZ communications manager Agga Nyabinde reassured that discussions are underway to introduce fashion as a stand-alone category in future editions. While the process may take time, Nyabinde stressed the NACZ’s commitment to elevating fashion as a recognised art form.
“We truly understand and appreciate the concerns, but as the NACZ, we can’t decide what one wears to the award ceremony,” he said.
“We are not ghosting the fashion side of art. In fact, we are in talks with relevant authorities to have fashion as a stand-alone category in the future.”
The recent Namas saw the addition of seven new awards, but the lack of a dedicated fashion category raised concerns. With Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage on display, the future of fashion at the Namas looks promising.
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