The Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) was transformed into a beacon of artistic excellence on Saturday, 28 February 2026, as the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) hosted the 24th Edition of the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA). Under the bold theme, “Fearless Creativity,” the ceremony celebrated the zenith of Zimbabwean talent across 44 awards, following the high-stakes nominee announcement on 12 February. The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe ensured that every artist felt the weight of their achievement even before the main stage. On Friday, 27 February, the nominees were treated to an exclusive Nominees Reception Dinner, an elegant evening of networking and celebration. During the event, every nominee walked away with a certificate of merit, a gesture designed to formally honor their outstanding contributions and the “Fearless Creativity” they brought to the industry throughout the year.
This year’s edition marked a historic shift with the debut of two strategic categories designed to reflect the evolving creative landscape. Fashion Category and Digital Arts Category was introduced.With a record turnout of approximately 3,200 attendees, the 24th NAMA proved that the Zimbabwean spirit of “Fearless Creativity” is not just a theme, but a thriving reality.
The success of the 24th Edition was further bolstered by the unwavering commitment of the Government of Zimbabwe, whose financial support remains the bedrock of these awards. Special gratitude is extended to the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture for their continuous advocacy and empowerment of the creative sector. The ceremony was graced by the Guest of Honor, Acting Minister Hon. Tino Machakaire, alongside Deputy Minister Hon. Emily Jesaya and Permanent Secretary Mr. Nicholas Moyo, whose presence underscored the state’s dedication to elevating the arts as a vital national pillar.
The seamless execution of the ceremony was a testament to the synergy between the new event managers, Scarlet Studios and Events Evolution. Their collaboration delivered a technically flawless show, characterized by immersive stage design and captivating performances that kept the HICC audience enthralled from start to finish. Equally vital to the evening’s success was the rigorous work of the adjudicators, who were commended for their transparency and professional integrity. Their task of narrowing down a record number of entries into a balanced list of nominees and winners ensured that the “Fearless Creativity” on display was truly the best of Zimbabwe.
Finally, the magnitude of this celebration would not have been possible without the vital support of our corporate sponsors. Their investment in the arts continues to provide the necessary fuel for our creative economy to thrive. By partnering with NAMA, these organizations have shown they are true champions of Zimbabwean culture, ensuring that our artists have a platform that matches their world-class talent.
