Preparations for the inaugural edition of the Zimbabwe Radio Awards (ZIRA) are at an advanced stage with organizers promising a well-organized event.
The awards which had to be shelved twice due to inadequate preparations and lack of funding will finally be held at the 7 Arts Theatre on 29 October 2016 and will run under the theme “Honoring a celebrity behind a celebrity”
Speaking to journalists, Agrippa Palazi who is the project manager at ZIRA said the awards are meant to honor the voices behind the microphone and appreciate the work they do to promote other artists.
“The Awards are meant for Radio Personalities, in recognition of their work in informing and entertaining people. The awards will help the Presenters and DJ’s to be motivated in doing their jobs.
“The awards will involve the major radios like Star FM, ZiFM Stereo and the four radio stations owned by the Government (Power FM, Sport FM, Radio Zimbabwe, and National FM) and a number of online Radios,” Palazi said.
He added that awards serve as platform to appreciate the DJs and presenters, as well as honouring them for their value. He said the awards come as an advantage to radio personalities and musicians as they are able to learn how much they are appreciated for their work.
“It will create a competitive environment which will increase eligibility and improve the broadcast media in Zimbabwe and enhancing relationships between the media and its various stakeholders. Local and International recording labels, investors and advertisers will also be enlightened in investing into Zimbabwean talent and broadcast media.
“It also helps to support musicians as they will be noticed nationwide on radio and if DJs and presenters actually like the content of the music,” he said.
A nominees’ list has since ben availed where DJs will battle it out in the 20 categories up for grabs while a life time achievement award as well as Honoring Old Radio Presenters which specifically for the Legends in the radio between 1980-1990 and 1991- 2000.
