Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
ZIMBABWE’S major radio stations have been roped in to provide crucial chart data for the National Arts Merit Awards (Nama), as preparations for the 2026 edition gather momentum.
Event organisers, National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), through their communications manager Agga Nyabinde said Power FM, ZiFM Stereo, Star FM, Skyz Metro FM and Radio Zimbabwe have all submitted their charts to them, strengthening the adjudication process for the music category and ensuring that radio performance plays a transparent role in determining nominees.
This development comes as the NACZ officially announced that the 24th edition of Nama will take place on 28 February 2026, at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), running under the theme “Fearless Creativity.”
Nyabinde revealed that the awards have already attracted overwhelming interest.
“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,” said Nyabinde.
He said the 2026 submissions reflect a major shift in how artistes are engaging with the awards.
“The data reveals a significant and welcome trend towards digital adoption, with the majority of submissions being made online through the official Nama portal. This demonstrates the industry’s growing confidence in and embracing of technology for official processes.”
The film category is leading the pack, followed closely by music and visual arts. Provinces with the highest submission volumes so far are Harare and Bulawayo, with strong participation from Manicaland, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South.
However, Nyabinde warned that many creatives are yet to complete the final stage of their entries.
“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. To ensure your entry is valid and processed without delay, you must email your supporting materials to [email protected] immediately after completing the online form. This step is mandatory for your entry to be considered.”
The 2026 edition will see two new categories, Fashion and Digital Media, being introduced following extensive consultations with stakeholders nationwide.
“These additions aim to acknowledge the rising impact of contemporary creative disciplines and align the awards with evolving global industry trends.”
The Fashion category will recognise Outstanding Male Fashion Designer, Outstanding Female Fashion Designer and Outstanding Contributor to the Fashion Industry, while the Digital Media category will spotlight Outstanding Female Social Media Content Creator, Outstanding Male Social Media Content Creator and Outstanding Podcast.
With momentum building and national participation widening, Nyabinde reminded artistes that the final submission deadline is Monday, 1 December 2025.
“No entries will be accepted after this date,” he said.
Only works produced between 1 December 2024 and 30 November 2025 are eligible for consideration.
@mthabisi_mthire
