The Zimbabwe Music Awards (Zima) have once again courted controversy after nominating Bob Marley for a lifetime achievement ahead of veteran local musicians who have contributed immensely to the growth of music in the country.
By Problem Masau Music lovers have castigated the organisers for honouring other nations’ heroes ahead of locals.
Zima spokesperson Farai Chapotera was at pains on one of the local radio stations trying to defend the “dubious” decision.
“Bob Marley shaped what we now call dancehall in the country. We decided to honour him because he was the first to perform in independent Zimbabawe,” she said.
However, music fans questioned the logic of honouring a foreigner who died 30 years ago while ignoring the likes of Thomas Mapfumo, Stella Chiweshe and Jonah Moyo, among others, who have contributed to Zimbabwe’s music industry for several decades.
“These Zima organisers are just attention seekers. Honestly, we cannot honour neighbours while we have our own heroes who deserve such recognition,” said Albert Mabune, a music fanatic.
Zima have never shied away from controversy since their return last year.
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Winners of last year’s awards only got their prizes five months after the event was held.
It has also emerged that veteran singer Chinx Chingaira is yet to move to the house which he got from Zima.
When Zima returned last year after a seven-year hiatus, the organisers promised glitz and glamour.
They even promised that the awards would be in the same league as the prestigious South African Music Awards (Samas).
The Samas are the South African equivalent of the American Grammy Awards.
“We are very keen to consult as many stakeholders as possible. The awards should be in tandem with international awards ceremonies. We have roped in some of Africa’s best awards organisers to give in their input,” said Joseph Nyadzawo, Zima chairman.
