WINNERS of this year's edition of the National Arts Merit Awards were announced on Saturday night at a colourful ceremony held at the 7 Arts Theatre in Harare. The event saw crowd favourites Blessing Shumba, Pastor Charles Charamba, Suluman Chimbetu, Winky D and renowned novelist Shimmer Chinodya emerging as winners.
It was a moment of joy for Mutare-based gospel musician Shumba after his album "NdiMwari" was adjudged the best in the "Outstanding Album" category ahead of Winky D's "Pa Kitchen" and "Non Stop" by Dendera musician Suluman Chimbetu. Sulu, however, was rewarded after he made it in the "Outstanding Musician/ Group" category ahead of leading sungura musician Alick Macheso and dancehall firebrand Winky D.
Sulu was without doubt the star of the night after he drew wild screams of applause from the audience. He had a fine run last year with his album "Non Stop" that caused a stir in entertainment circles. Pastor Charamba's hit song "Nyika Zimbabwe" was adjudged the "Best Song" and it was a befitting accolade to the artiste whose song expresses pride in Zimbabwe while at the same time pleading for divine guidance in the direction that the nation should take.
Dancehall king, Winky D also received a nod for his efforts. Shumba said he was humbled by the achievement, dedicating the award to his fans. "This has been made possible because of the time that God has given people listen to my music," said the Mutare-based musician.
Other winners include former Big Brother reality personality Munyaradzi Chidzonga who scooped the "Outstanding Actor" accolade for his role in the film "The Gentleman", Jasen Mphepo, Violet Masilo for her book "The African Tea Cosy," Shimmer Chinodya for his children's book "Tindo's Quest", Calvin Chimutuwah and Boet Nyariri. The Herald's columnist Dr Tony Mhonda won in the Media Awards' Outstanding Print Journalist. (Herald)
No comments:
Post a Comment