Zimbabwe’s creative community is responding in record numbers to the call for submissions for the 24th National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), with 1,117 entries already received ahead of the December 1 deadline.
The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) says the volume signals renewed energy across the country’s arts landscape as it prepares for the 2026 ceremony.
This year’s awards will take place on February 28 at the Harare International Conference Centre under the theme Fearless Creativity.
NACZ officials say the theme reflects the boldness they see in the entries and the increasing willingness of artists to embrace new tools and platforms.
The council highlighted a major shift toward digital submissions, noting that most entries were uploaded through the official NAMA portal.
“The data reveals a significant and welcome trend towards digital adoption,” the NACZ said, adding that it shows growing confidence in using technology for official processes.
The Film category currently leads in submissions, followed closely by Music and Visual Arts. While entries have come from every province, Harare and Bulawayo remain the largest contributors, with strong participation also seen from Manicaland, Matabeleland North, and Matabeleland South.
However, NACZ warned that a number of entries remain incomplete. Many artists have filled out the online form but have not submitted the required supporting materials, such as downloadable links or portfolios.
The council urged entrants to email their support documents for their entries to be considered.
NACZ also confirmed that it has received radio chart data from major stations including Power FM, ZiFM, Star FM, Sky Metro, and Radio Zimbabwe, which will factor into decisions for the music categories.
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