Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
In a major boost for Zimbabwe’s creative industry, the NGOMA Awards 2026 were officially launched last Friday, re-igniting hope and optimism for artistes, advertisers, and other creative professionals seeking recognition for their talent and innovation.
Hosted by the Zimbabwe Association of Accredited Practitioners in Advertising (ZAAPA), the launch celebrated the power of creativity to inspire change, transform businesses and contribute to the country’s economic development.
Held under the theme, “Celebrating the Rhythm of Zimbabwe’s Creativity,” the awards recognise outstanding talent, fresh ideas, and innovation that continue to shape and redefine Zimbabwe’s creative landscape.
Addressing industry stakeholders, ZAAPA president Fungai Zvirava described the relaunch as a strategic investment in the future of Zimbabwe’s creative economy.
“The NGOMA Awards 2026 are more than a celebration of outstanding work. They are a platform for recognising the individuals and organisations whose ideas are helping to shape the future of Zimbabwe,” she said.
During the event, speakers outlined plans for Creative Week, student engagement initiatives and industry-focused activities designed to strengthen the country’s creative ecosystem.
Zvirava revealed that the awards programme will culminate into an Awards Night later this year, where outstanding work from across the industry will be recognised and celebrated.
Similar sentiments were echoed by ZAAPA vice president Delight Magora, who said the relaunch represents a collective commitment to the future of creativity in Zimbabwe.
“The future of our industry depends on our ability to nurture talent, embrace innovation and create platforms that inspire excellence. The NGOMA Awards 2026 are an important part of that journey,” he said.
He added that the launch event reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s growing presence within the regional creative community through strategic partnerships and collaboration opportunities that connect local talent with broader African markets.
The organisers further revealed that entries for the NGOMA Awards 2026 are now open, inviting creative professionals, agencies, brands, students, educators, and industry partners to submit their work.
Outlining the programme’s vision and 2026 roadmap, the organisers said the awards have evolved into a movement that celebrates and elevates Zimbabwean creativity.
Various stakeholders within the creative community have long called for greater appreciation and support for the sector, citing its immense potential to create employment opportunities and contribute to economic growth.
For award information, participation details and programme updates, the NGOMA Awards 2026 have also established social media platforms.
ZAAPA is the representative body for accredited advertising and communications practitioners in Zimbabwe, committed to advancing professionalism, creativity and excellence within the industry.
Further information about the NGOMA Awards shows that they celebrate outstanding creativity, effectiveness and innovation in Zimbabwe’s advertising, marketing and communications industries.
Held in collaboration with the Loeries — Africa and the Middle East’s premier creative awards — the NGOMA Awards benchmark Zimbabwean creative output against the continent’s best, providing entrants with international recognition and exposure.
The awards honour individuals, groups and institutions for excellence in brand communication, creativity and innovation, recognising outstanding achievements across advertising, marketing, design and digital media.
A lack of appreciation has been a major drawback, even as the creative community continues to make an impact day by day.
With the official launch of the NGOMA Awards 2026, expectations are high — growth in this sector is essential.
The initiative is expected to further strengthen Zimbabwe’s creative sector by promoting excellence, empowering practitioners, encouraging innovation and inspiring more players to pursue creative careers.
