MAM Expects Engagement in Nominating 2022 Zikomo Awardees

Manong'a says the association appreciates efforts by government in recognizing art sector for the awards this year Manong'a says the association appreciates efforts by government in recognizing art sector for the awards this year - internet pic

The Musicians Association of Malawi (MAM) said it expects government to engage the association on how best to nominate the outstanding artists in this year's Presidential Zikomo Awards.

Government has extended the 2022 Presidential Zikomo Awards whose objective is to recognize individuals with outstanding performance on creativity, innovation, or sacrificial and selfless service to the nation with focus on agriculture, arts, youth, education and ICT sectors.

Speaking to Zodiak Online on Friday, MAM President Gloria Manong'a, says the association appreciates efforts by government in recognizing art sector for the awards this year.

"We appreciate that government has come up with this initiative of awarding the artists. But in the music sector we would love if government would have sat down with us to discuss on how this award is going to run because the music sector is a big body. It has got sections, we have urban, gospel, youths, upcoming and legendary whatsoever.

"So for only one sector to be awarded, we feel like other sectors would be affected," she said.

Manong'a has on the other hand, reminded the government to fast track the establishment of the long-awaited art council that would drive the interests of the artists in the country.

"There are a lot of things that have to be done by the government to support the art even the music sector. The government has to quicken the establishment of the arts council. In the country, we don't have the art council that drive the interest of the artists in the country," she added.

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Wildlife spokesperson Symon Mbvundula, said, the extension of the awards to the creative industry is a right step towards promoting arts in the country.

"This is really huge motivation and a booster to the creative industry. And we are looking forward to see huge worth of arts. You know being recognized by the entire highest office in the country is something that every person would really willing to achieve.

"And this would therefore create competitiveness and creativity among the artists in the country," Mbvundula said.

Mbvundula has also indicated that plans are at advanced stage to establish the country’s National Arts and Heritage Council.

For the past years, the awards only focused on the health sector.

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