NAMA25 Silver Jubilee Theme Explained: Tsimba, Hwamanda and Zimbabwe’s Creative Future
An awards ceremony without a theme risks becoming just another night of trophies and applause. A powerful theme gives the occasion a heartbeat, a voice, and a story. As the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) prepares to mark its monumental 25th edition, organisers have turned to two distinctly African symbols to tell a story that stretches from Zimbabwe’s artistic past directly into its creative future.
The highly anticipated theme, “Honour the Footprints, Sound the Future”, draws its profound inspiration from the Tsimba (meaning footprint) and the Hwamanda (a traditional instrument associated with announcing important gatherings). Together, they provide the philosophical anchor for the Silver Jubilee edition.
More Than Just A Number
For the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), which oversees the prestigious awards, the 25th edition represents far more than an anniversary. It is a critical moment of reflection on the long, often arduous journey traveled by Zimbabwe’s creative sector.
"This is not just a number; it is a milestone. It represents a quarter of a century of resilience, evolution and excellence. This Silver Jubilee edition carries a special significance. It is a celebration of the depth of Zimbabwe’s creative expertise."
— Napoleon Nyanhi (NACZ Chief Executive Officer)
Honour The Footprints
The first half of the theme — “Honour the Footprints” — speaks directly to the pioneers: the artists, musicians, actors, writers, dancers, filmmakers, and designers whose tireless work has shaped Zimbabwe’s cultural identity over the decades.
Sound The Future
If the Tsimba represents what has already been achieved, the Hwamanda represents what is yet to come. Traditionally used to announce important gatherings and mark celebrations, its symbolism gives NAMA25 a dynamic, forward-looking dimension.
"Twenty-five is more than a number; it is a journey, it is a story and, most importantly, it is a legacy. As we reflected on this milestone... we had one important question in mind: How do we honour everything that has brought us here, while looking ahead to everything that is still to come?"
— Reginald Matinanga (Scarlet Studios Managing Director)
The duality is profound: The Tsimba asks Zimbabwe to remember, while the Hwamanda asks Zimbabwe to look ahead. One honours those who paved the way; the other calls upon those who will shape the next chapter.
Sona Verdict: Building on Fearless Creativity
The evolution from last year’s theme, “Fearless Creativity,” to NAMA25's “Honour the Footprints, Sound the Future” shows a maturation in how Zimbabwe views its cultural sector. Last year was a necessary call for artists to break conventional boundaries and experiment without fear of criticism. This year is about cementing that boldness into a lasting legacy.
A 25th anniversary is a rare juncture where looking backward is just as important as looking forward. By grounding the celebration in powerful indigenous symbols—the Tsimba and the Hwamanda—NACZ and Scarlet Studios have crafted an identity that feels deeply authentic. It bridges the gap between the veterans who built the industry from scratch and the Gen Z creatives who are currently redefining it on global digital platforms.
As the awards enter their Silver Jubilee, the overarching message is clear: artistic legacies are not monuments to be left in the past. They are footprints meant to be followed, expanded upon, and ultimately surpassed by the next generation.
Source: Lifestyle Writer (The Herald) | Entertainment Desk
