In their seventh edition, the awards, which honour and
recognise the immense talent within the Matabeleland region, were held on
Saturday evening at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC).
In addition to winning the People’s Choice Award, Insimbi
ZeZhwane also took home the award for Outstanding Tshibilika/Rhumba Act. The
group’s popularity was evident as the crowd erupted in excitement and chanted
the group’s slogan, “Jiiiii” every time they were called to the stage.
The exhibition centre’s Hall 3 was filled to capacity with
people from all walks of life, all dressed in their finest attire, adding to
the glamour of the night.
In attendance were social media personalities from South
Africa; Lasizwe Dambuza and his brother Lungile Mchunu, and UK-based Zimbabwean
Mitchell “Mimi” Tshuma. The trio were fashion police on the night welcoming
guests and asking them about their outfits. They were responsible for selecting
the best-dressed individual of the night, who was rewarded with a weekend
getaway to South Africa.
The awards ceremony
was also attended by previous winners and nominees of the RoilBAAs including
Mawiza, Thandy Dhlana, Lady Tshawe, Cde Phil, Ladee, Mzoe 7, and Nkwali,
creating an atmosphere of celebration and recognition within the arts industry.
Other than Insimbi ZeZhwane, the spotlight was shone on DJ
Nitefreak who scooped three awards; Outstanding Song of the Year, Outstanding
Club DJ, and Outstanding Ambassador (Worldwide).
As part of this year’s edition, seven icons within the arts
sector were honoured, over and above the Lifetime Achievement Award. These were
traditional dance group Thandanani Women’s Ensemble, musician Hudson
Simbarashe, theatre practitioner Thabani H Moyo, prolific writer Ericah Gwetai,
media personality Ezra Tshisa Sibanda, music group Black Umfolosi and the late
hip-hop musician Cal_Vin.
The Outstanding Male Artiste of the Year Award went to
Calvin Mangena while the Outstanding Female Artiste of the Year gong went to
Joy Rukanza. Chronicle’s Mbulelo Mpofu was awarded Outstanding Arts Journalist
while Outstanding Online media went to Dab Three Events. Chronicle
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