Bulawayo Arts Awards Returns with Spectacular 2025 Ceremony

After a two-year hiatus, the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) made a striking comeback, hosting a glamorous ceremony on Saturday that celebrated excellence in arts and fashion. The event marked a turning point for the city’s creative scene, giving hope for the revival and re-branding of the awards.

BAA faced significant challenges after losing major sponsors, which forced last year’s event to be postponed. Organisers used the time to secure funds and enable creatives to develop high-quality projects for consideration. The 2025 edition reflected these efforts, delivering a night of sophistication and artistic celebration.

Arts enthusiasts flocked to the event, showcasing not only support for their favourite artistes but also their personal style. Guests were welcomed by fashion police led by businesswoman Mitchelle Tshuma and UK-based model Oliver Keith, who provided candid feedback on attendees’ and artistes’ fashion choices.

The ceremony was hosted by radio personalities Benkosi “Bkay” Maphosa and Zee Gumede, with celebrated poetess Lady Tshawe anchoring the event. Their combined presence kept the audience engaged and ensured smooth transitions throughout the evening.

Stage management and choreography were highlighted as key strengths of the night, led by arts veteran Simon “Mambazo” Phiri and choreographer Mehluli “Gomez” Dube. The performances were energetic and synchronized, featuring artists like Noluntu J, who won Outstanding Hip Hop Act, Mxolisi “Mr Bones” Ndlovu, who took Outstanding Tshibilika Music, and Godolude with his Friendly Brothers band. DJ Sida ensured every performance was polished and aligned with the show’s schedule.

This year, BAA honoured fallen legends by renaming major award categories to recognise their lifelong contributions. These included the Pathisa Nyathi Outstanding Literary Work, Sihlangu Dlodlo (Qhube) Outstanding Theatre Production, Babongile Sikhonjwa Outstanding Radio DJ, Desire “Moyoxide” Outstanding Poet, and Ishmael Muvingi (Litshe) Outstanding Dance Ensemble.

Award winners included Black Diva (Outstanding Newcomer), Bhila (Outstanding Alternative), Mjoks (Outstanding Radio DJ), and Kotwane Hikwa (Outstanding Club DJ). Nitefreak and Everton Mlalazi both won the Outstanding Ambassador (Worldwide) award, recognised for global tours and contributions to Gospel music respectively.

Seasoned arts administrator Josh Nyapimbi received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in growing the local arts industry and supporting creatives from marginalised communities. The Herald Online was recognised as Outstanding Online Media, highlighting its support for artists in the digital era. Lisa Masuku-Kurira of ZBC TV won Outstanding Arts Journalist (All Media), competing against nominees including Langalakhe Mabena, Mthabisi Tshuma, and Mbulelo Mpofu.

The People’s Choice Award went to DJ Mzoe, voted by the public, cementing his status as a crowd favourite. Overall, the 2025 Bulawayo Arts Awards delivered a night of celebration, recognition, and renewed optimism for the city’s arts sector.