National Arts Merit Awards Set for Harare as Rick Ross and Omah Lay Concert Sparks Entertainment Showdown
The National Arts Merit Awards will take place at the Harare International Conference Centre, setting the stage for one of Zimbabwe’s most anticipated cultural nights. On the same evening, American rapper Rick Ross and Nigerian star Omah Lay are scheduled to perform at the Hippodrome in Braeside. The clash of these two major events has sparked debate among arts fans across the country. Many are questioning whether the events will compete for the same audience or attract entirely different crowds. The timing has created a rare moment in Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar where two large scale productions share the spotlight.
Traditionally, the National Arts Merit Awards attract a formal audience that includes industry professionals, corporate sponsors, policymakers and artists. The ceremony celebrates excellence across theatre, music, film and literature, making it the country’s premier cultural recognition platform. For years, NAMA has built a reputation as a prestigious awards show that honours artistic achievement and creative contribution. The event is known for elegant red carpet moments, structured programming and carefully curated performances. Usually, when the awards are happening, there is no other major show in Harare, which has helped the ceremony dominate public attention.
This year that pattern is changing with the Rick Ross and Omah Lay concert expected to draw a younger and more party driven crowd. Fans eager for international performances are likely to flock to the Hippodrome for a high energy music experience. The concert will also feature supporting acts such as Takura, Shashl, Freeman HKD, Feli Nandi, ExQ, Tamy Moyo and Saintfloew. When Rick Ross last visited Zimbabwe, the show attracted business leaders, socialites and celebrities, proving that his appeal cuts across different social groups. The addition of Omah Lay strengthens the event’s pull, especially among fans of Afrobeats and contemporary global sounds.
Despite the competition, NAMA has assembled a diverse and powerful lineup under the theme Fearless Creativity. Ministers Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, Vabati VaJehova, Sku, Snowy Natasha Mlalazi, Dorcus Moyo, Cleo Arie and Lil Eliana will lead the gospel session. Paddington Chiwashira is set to perform his hit song Manhanga Matete on stage, adding a popular local touch to the ceremony. Baba Harare will represent the jiti genre alongside Weru hit maker Sekuru Gudo. Plaxedes Wenyika, Alexio Kawara, BaShupi and Dino Mudondo will handle the urban groove segment, while the Chillspot family, Freeman HKD and Junior Spragga will oversee the dancehall performances. Bling 4, Runner Rulez, Melyssa, Sane Wav, Young Gemini, Fab G and Shone will cover the RnB and hip hop categories, ensuring that multiple genres are represented.
The big question remains whether NAMA can overshadow Rick Ross on a night filled with star power and international hype. What is clear is that the simultaneous events present a significant test for NAMA’s influence and relevance in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape. While the awards ceremony carries cultural prestige and long standing tradition, younger audiences are increasingly drawn to global pop culture experiences. Strong local performances, compelling nominees and vibrant stage production could help NAMA maintain its loyal following despite the competition. The outcome may shape how future major events are scheduled in Zimbabwe and redefine how audiences engage with both local awards ceremonies and international concerts.
