Story by Patience Nyagato, Arts Reporter
NOMINEES for the 21st edition of the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) have been announced, with Zimdancehall musician Freeman dominating after being nominated in three categories.
The past year saw the rise of new voices in the music industry, including Leo Magozz, Andrea the Vocalist and Saintfloew, who are all nominated in different categories at the 21st NAMA instalment.
Announcing the nominations, NAMA adjudicators’ chairperson Hope Masike said artists who submitted their works were considered.
“The adjudication process began on the 1st of December 2022. This process was based on submitted entries as well as those identified by individual and institutional monitors appointed to track excelling artists throughout the year. A total of 1 266 entries were received. These comprised 897 physical entries and 394 online entries at the close of the nomination period,” she said.
Creatives nominated in more than one category include Jiti crooner Baba Harare, gospel musician Dorcas Moyo, sungura musician Mark Ngwazi and rising star Leo Magozz.
Kuda Bwititi dominated in the film and television category with two nominations, while Keith Zenda was nominated twice in the visual arts segment.
Sean Mambwere was also nominated twice in the dance category.
Winners will be awarded at the National Arts Merit Awards ceremony slated for the 25th of February at the Harare International Conference Centre.
