Songstress Tahle We Dzinza has finally addressed the recent controversy surrounding her NAMA award, setting the record straight amid backlash.
The National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) ceremony sparked criticism when Tahle We Dzinza was announced as the recipient of the Video of the Year accolade for her song “Damage,” which reportedly lacked an accompanying music video available on platforms like YouTube.
Despite the limited visibility of “Damage” on major streaming sites, the song unexpectedly secured the award, prompting concerns about the transparency of the NAMA selection process.
In response to the uproar, Tahle We Dzinza, through her management, clarified that the winning video was submitted by film producer Jonathan Samukange, not by the musician herself. They emphasized that the application was made by Samukange in his capacity as a filmmaker, not on behalf of Tahle We Dzinza as a musician.
“This is not the first time that artists have approached us to use Tahle’s music to showcase their skill and craft,” stated Tahle We Dzinza’s management.
Furthermore, Tahle We Dzinza asserted that the award was bestowed upon Jonathan Samukange for directing the music video, and he received the honor at the NAMA ceremony as the applicant, not her. She emphasized that the award does not belong to her, and she has not accepted it.
Expressing gratitude for the assistance provided by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe in addressing the award’s controversy, Tahle We Dzinza acknowledged their transparency and support in clarifying the situation.
“We would like to thank both National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, who have been extremely helpful and professional in attending to the questions we raised on this award. They explained the NAMA award application processes to us, and we are thankful for their transparency and support,” read part of the statement.
