By Ndumiso Tshuma
The Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards (ZHHA) will celebrate its 14th edition this December, promising to spotlight the vibrancy and talent within the country’s hip-hop culture.
While the exact date is yet to be announced, anticipation is building for an event that will blend virtual and in-person experiences, making it accessible to fans and artists alike.
Aldrian Beefy Harrison, the spokesperson for the ZHHA, revealed in a press statement released yesterday that the awards will return for their 14th edition in December, with a mix of virtual and conventional elements.
“As the leading authority on Zimbabwean hip hop and Africa’s first and most prestigious hip hop awards, the Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards are back to celebrate their 14th edition this December. The event will feature both virtual and in-person components,” Harrison said.
Harrison stated that the ZHHA aims to inspire and empower young musicians by acknowledging their contributions to the music scene.
“Our mission is to leverage elements of youth culture and media to inspire, motivate, and empower young artists by recognizing and celebrating their work across various genres. We continue to grow, receiving increased recognition from regional and international media houses and artists,” he added.
A major highlight for this year is the ZHHA’s partnership with the House of Arts Association, which will manage and curate the awards starting in 2024. Harrison noted that this collaboration will elevate the awards’ impact and broaden their reach, reaffirming their commitment to showcasing the best of Zimbabwean hip hop.
“We are excited to announce our new partnership with the House of Arts Association, which will manage and curate the ZHHA brand from 2024 onward,” Harrison said.
In a move highlighting the awards’ expanding platform, Harrison also announced the introduction of a new category dedicated to spoken word, giving artists from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to shine.
“The Zimbabwe Hip Hop Awards will continue to honour musical excellence and creativity, offering a high-profile celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich hip-hop culture,” Harrison said, noting that winners will receive the coveted golden gong, a symbol of the highest achievement in the genre.
Submissions for ZHHA14 are now officially open, with artists encouraged to send their biographies and performance materials to info@zimhiphopawards.co.zw.
