Addressing journalist in Harare at the unveiling of the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) nominees of the 11thEdition, NAMA chairperson Dudu Manhenga said that unlike in presiding years there are no nominees in certain catagories because of the poor submissions.
“Categories such as Outstanding Choral group and Outstanding Screen Production (Television) had many entries but not one of them managed to meet the set standards by the adjudication committee and they had to be dropped and I hope that next year these groups will have improved and be creative so that their entries can be accepted”, said Ms Manhenga.
She added that production houses played a critical role in submitting entries of works done in the year.
However one of the observations made by adjudicators was the difficulties faced by artists and those doing on behalf of artists in completing the NAMA form.
The adjudication process took more time than some previous years because of the increased number of 2011 entries which recorded a 113% increase in entries submitted.
Speaking at the same occasion the Director of National Arts Council Mr Elvis Mari said the funds they get from government is not enough as the bigger percentage is spent on administration issues.
“From the previous budget the government allocated US$35 000 which is not enough to reward the winning artist with cash hence the reason why they will given miniatures and certificates” said Mr Mari.
Mr Mari appealed to the corporate world to come on board as they do in activities such as sports and support the winners with cash as arts no politics but brings people from all walks of life together and show the world that we are Zimbabweans.
He added that, artist are our ambassadors who tell the world about Zimbabwe in various forms of arts such as music, drama and sculpture.
Artist will battle it out in five categories.
This year’s NAMA ceremony will be held on 18TH February at Reps Theatre
Post published in: Entertainment