Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has announced that the 24th edition of the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama) will take place on February 28, 2026 in Harare.
In a statement, NACZ communications manager Agga Nyabinde revealed that more than 1 100 submissions have already been received for consideration.
“The 24th Nama awards ceremony will be held at HICC on February 28, 2026, under the theme “Fearless Creativity”. With the submission window still open, a total of 1 117 entries have already been received from artistes across all provinces, signalling a vibrant and engaged arts sector.
He noted that the Film category at present leads in submissions, followed closely by Music and Visual Arts, although several artistes are yet to finalise their entries.
“In terms of categories, the film category currently leads in the number of submissions, closely followed by Music and Visual Arts. Geographically, while entries have been received from every province, the highest volumes are from Harare and Bulawayo, with strong showings from Manicaland, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South.
“The NACZ has noted that some submissions are incomplete. Many artistes have successfully filled out the online form but have not yet sent the required supporting materials, such as downloadable links to their work,” he said.
Nyabinde added that the awards committee has also received crucial radio chart data from Power FM, ZiFM, Star FM, Skyz Metro FM and Radio Zimbabwe, which will guide the Music category nominations.
He reminded all creatives that the final deadline for Nama submissions is Monday, December 1, 2025.
“No entries will be accepted after this date,” said Nyabinde. —@mthabisi_mthire
