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2025 Ngoma Awards — About Us

A national platform recognising and celebrating artistic excellence across Zambia.

1.0 Introduction

The Ngoma Awards are a prestigious national honour recognising artistic excellence across comedy, creative writing, dance, fashion, media arts, music, theatre, and visual arts. Hosted by the National Arts Council of Zambia under the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, the Ngoma Awards have honoured more than 1,000 artists over the past 28 years and remain Zambia’s flagship platform for artistic excellence.

The 2025 edition marks the 20th Ngoma Awards since the inaugural ceremony in 1997. With a continued dedication to artistic excellence and community connection, the 20th Ngoma Awards promise an elevated experience — with exciting surprises, exclusive partnership opportunities, and a night filled with creativity, entertainment, passion, and celebration.

2.0 Vision & Purpose

Purpose: To Recognise, Celebrate, and Motivate Artistic Excellence.

  • Honour outstanding artistic achievements.
  • Uplift artists across all disciplines.
  • Inspire continued growth and innovation in Zambia’s creative industry.
  • Maintain credibility and prestige as Zambia’s premier arts accolade.

3.0 Rich History of Artistic Excellence

  • Established in 1997 as the National Honours and Awards Show.
  • Originally recognised 10-year achievements across 21 categories.
  • 1998: Shift to annual works; associations under NAC organise feeder events.
  • “Ngoma” chosen to symbolise communication and cultural heritage (means “drum”).
  • Expanded from 21 awards (1997) to ~47 (2022) and 50 in recent editions.
  • New categories added over time: Comedy, Media Arts, Fashion, etc.
  • Hosted across cities (Lusaka, Livingstone, Kitwe) to reinforce national reach.
  • Awards named after fallen arts heroes — a national artistic tribute.

4.0 Impact & Numbers

3,000
In attendance
160
Nominees
44
Awards
7M
Viewers
10M+
Social traction
Power Media
Regional partner

5.0 Significance & Brand Positioning

  • Strong local standing and national recognition.
  • Viewed as a career milestone — breakthrough or crowning achievement.
  • Associated publicly with quality and artistic excellence.
  • Acts as a springboard for broader regional and international exposure.

6.0 Audience & Targeting

Primary Audience: Artists, creative professionals, the public, promoters, sponsors, industry professionals, and the Zambian diaspora.

Demographics: Age 18–55+; inclusive gender; students, emerging and mid-career professionals.

Engagement Strategies
  • Social media interactivity and nominee-led content.
  • Programme involvement and rich on-night artistic experiences.
  • Diverse showcases across art forms.

7.0 Road Map

See the official Call for Entries for the full timeline and submission guidelines. The Road Map covers submissions, judging, rehearsals, and ceremony logistics.

8.0 Programme Details

  • Live performances and artistic showcases.
  • Red carpet experience and exhibitions.
  • Speeches, tributes, and industry spotlights.

9.0 Legacy & Artistic Value

  • Promote excellence and inspire professionalism.
  • Define Zambia’s artistic landscape and cultural identity.
  • Build an ecosystem connecting artists, partners, and audiences.
  • Provide national recognition that elevates careers and affirms merit.

10.0 Long-Term Impact

  • Improved quality and standards in the arts sector.
  • Motivated creatives striving for excellence.
  • Increased investment, funding, and corporate engagement.
  • A thriving creative sector showcasing world-class artistic excellence.