Weekend recap: Creatives wave Namibian flag high

MICHAEL KAYUNDE

WINDHOEK

Africa’s first ever humanitarian, fashion, music, film-making and fitness awards show, the Zikomo Awards, took place in Lusaka, Zambia, over the weekend, and saw Namibian musicians, media personalities and influencers bagging numerous awards.
Representing Namibia was Maria ‘ML’ Immanuel, Maria Nepembe, Auguste Uutoni, Rosaline Vigidal, Tresia Shongola and Meggy Fillipus. The personalities were nominated in the best female artist, best media influencer, best fashionista, best make-up artist and best fashion designer categories respectively.
ML scooped best female artist, while media darling Nepembe bagged fashionista of the year Africa, social media influencer and a lifetime achievement award. Also waving the Namibian flag high, Uutoni was awarded fitness trainer of the year, while Albertina Hainane was crowned in the best upcoming actress Africa category.
“Thank you to all my fans, friends and family for voting for me and supporting me. You guys carried my spirit. I love you all,” ML wrote on Instagram.
Nepembe also took to Instagram and wrote: “Thank you all so much for the congratulatory messages. I couldn’t have done this without the constant love and support Namibia and Africa have shown me. Namibia scooped so many awards and I want to congratulate every Namibian who was nominated.”

Song contest
In other news, Africa Music Challenge – a competition operated by Africa Sports Ventures Group and HITLAB Entertainment - is running an Africa theme song contest. The initiative announced a new batch of contestants over the weekend featuring Namibian performers. The contestants include Vikta Juiceboy, Bongani //Garoeb, Stella !Naruses, Gordon Schiefer, Genesa Handrick Blossom and Papa Ndasuunje Shikongeni.
“The top five artists selected will perform live virtually on Africa Day, 25 May, at the 2021 Africa Sports Awards.”