THE Zimbabwe Music Awards (ZIMA) held last week in Harare came after a long break and it was a night to remember for many reasons.
For seven years the ZIMA were not held and musicians had to be content with award ceremonies such as the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) that were not specifically for the music industry.
And musicians were delighted when ZIMA chairman Joseph Nyadzayo announced the return of the awards.
The last edition was in 2007 and the difficulties brought about by the sanctions imposed on the country by Britain and its allies resulted in ZIMA going into hibernation.
This year the ZIMA awoke from their long slumber.
And the question is whether the long sleep revitalised or atrophied the muscles.
The awards were impressive, if not for anything else then for the Chairman’s Award, which was duly scooped by war veteran and legendary Chimurenga musician Dick Chingaira better known as ‘Cde Chinx’.
The award came with the prize of a house.
And it was befitting that the first recipient was Cde Chinx considering that he is one of the few musicians who have been persistent in defending the country through song.
He has not benefitted from international shows despite being a brilliant artiste as no international promoter has been willing to engage him because he remains steadfast in denouncing neo-colonialism.
Cde Chinx is one of the few artistes that have openly castigated countries like Britain and the United States for interfering in Zimbabwe’s affairs.
According to ZIMA’s chairman Joseph Nyadzayo, the award was special and must not be expected to be received every year.
“The Chairman’s Award has no adjudicator to judge it and should not be expected every year,” he said.
“It focuses on work that significantly contributes to nation building through music.”
The presentation of the Chairman’s Award was the major highlight of the night.
Cde Chinx was presented with a four-bedroomed house in Malbereign, Harare.
“Ndinoda kutenda veZimbabwe vakafunga ZIMA, Chairman Nyadzayo ndoshaya ndokutendai nei,” said Cde Chinx.
“Iye mutungamiriri wenyika akanditungamira ndodedicater kwavari,” said Cde Chinx.
Cde Chinx began singing during the liberation struggle helping to inspire freedom fighters.
Music was an integral part of the liberation struggle that was fraught with hardships that could break even the toughest of man or woman.
In an entertaining way, it constantly reminded the fighters of the reasons for waging war against the brutal Ian Smith regime.
Now Cde Chinx will every time when he unlocks the door to his house remember that his efforts are appreciated.
While the war veterans have not actively demanded or sought for much, it is prudent that we remember them and recognise their role in nation building.
Back to the ZIMA, although there were some hiccups pundits contend that overally Nyadzayo should be commended for the spirited effort and a job well done.