Minister of Youth Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, has revealed that the government has increased this year’s Ngoma awards prize money from K5, 000 to K20, 000 minimum and will continue increasing the amount in the years to come.
Mr Nkandu says the initiative to increase the prize money is meant to motivate the artists, uphold their dignity and give them the visibility they deserve.
Speaking when he launched the 20th Ngoma Awards Edition, scheduled to be held on December 11, 2025 last evening, the Minister said the step to increase the award money demonstrates the government’s seriousness in promoting art and reflects its commitment to ensuring that creativity is not only celebrated but also rewarded in a meaningful way.
“Some of you remember when I pledged that this year’s Ngoma awards will be different. Hence, you should expect something big and just work hard because we want to celebrate you and we want to celebrate excellence and hard work,” he added.
Mr Nkandu stated that the Ngoma awards is not just a ceremony but a celebration of the country’s creativity, identity and resilience of artists who use their talents to educate, entertain and tell the Zambian stories.
He noted that the Ngoma awards have over the years become a platform where Zambians pause to reflect, appreciate and reward those who keep the country’s culture alive.
Mr Nkandu added that by celebrating the 20th edition of the Ngoma award, the country is celebrating a milestone that has shaped Zambia’s landscape over the past two decades.
The Minister further explained that this year’s awards have been categorised in three parts namely, adjudicated awards with nine categories, popular voting awards with 10 categories and recognition awards with four categories which include the presidential recognition award.
Mr Nkandu further thanked partners and sponsors who believe in the potential of the Zambian artists to contribute to the country’s economic development.
He highlighted that the support from sponsors and partners is a clear indication that the growth of the arts sector is not only the government’s responsibility, but a shared responsibility, adding that working together can create an environment for art to thrive.
Mr Nkandu also called on more stakeholders to join in supporting and developing artists, stressing that celebrating the 20th edition of the Ngoma awards is not just about marking time, but about a reminder of the artistic journey in shaping the country’s identity.
He further reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the arts industry by ensuring that it continues to thrive and is appreciated as it creates jobs and contributes meaningfully to national development.
