TRANSPARENCY NEEDED TO END NAMA CONTROVERSIES

FIRSTLY, we would like to congratulate winners at Saturday night’s National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA). We, however, can’t turn a blind eye to the controversies that continue to rock what should be the biggest celebration of our arts industry. These controversies range from accusations of bias, lack of transparency, and favouritism in the awards process, to demands for changes in the criteria used to determine the winners.

One of the reasons why the NAMA always attract controversy is the fact that they are considered the most prestigious awards in the country. This means that winning a NAMA should be a significant achievement and a mark of excellence in the arts industry. Hence, the stakes are high, and the expectations are even higher, which should make the competition fierce and intense.

However, this intensity can often lead to accusations of bias and favouritism in the selection process. Critics argue that some artists are given preferential treatment over others, often due to connections and personal relationships with the judges or the organisers. This has led to allegations of corruption and a lack of transparency in the selection process.

In addition to this, the criteria used to determine the winners of the NAMA has also been a source of controversy. Some stakeholders have argued that the current criteria do not reflect the true nature and diversity of the arts industry in Zimbabwe. They claim that the awards are too focused on certain genres of art, such as music and theatre, at the expense of other creative fields such as visual arts or literature.

Moreover, some stakeholders feel that the judging panels for the NAMA are not representative of the entire country’s arts industry. Critics argue that the judges are often drawn from a small pool of individuals who have close ties with the organisers, leading to a lack of diversity in perspectives and opinions. Some stakeholders argue that the awards have become too focused on established and well-known artists, at the expense of up-and-coming talents. They claim that the awards do not provide enough support or opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talents and gain recognition.

Furthermore, the awards have been criticised for their lack of relevance to the broader arts industry in Zimbabwe. Some stakeholders argue that the awards are too insular and are focused only on the mainstream arts industry in the country. They claim that the awards do not take into account the many cultural and historical influences that have shaped the arts industry in Zimbabwe, leading to a lack of diversity and representation.

The NAMA controversies highlight the challenges and complexities of recognising and celebrating excellence in the arts industry. While the awards have played an important role in acknowledging the achievements of Zimbabwean artists, the controversies surrounding them have undermined their credibility and reputation.

To address these controversies, there is a need for greater transparency and accountability in the selection process and criteria used to determine the winners of the awards. Furthermore, there should be a greater focus on supporting emerging artists and new talent and making the awards more relevant and representative of the broader arts industry in Zimbabwe.

Ultimately, the purpose of the NAMA awards should be to celebrate and promote the diversity, richness and excellence of Zimbabwean arts, without fear or favour. Only then can the awards regain their credibility and become a true reflection of the country’s vibrant and dynamic arts industry.