Our Philosophy
Judged on Merit.
Not on Names.
Every entry submitted to the Ngoma Awards is evaluated by an independent panel of industry professionals. Judges are assigned entries from outside their own agency or brand, ensuring complete impartiality.
Entries are scored against four clearly defined criteria. The judging panel reviews all supporting materials — uploaded files, video links, and entry descriptions — before submitting scores.
Conflict of Interest
Any judge with a declared conflict of interest for a specific entry is automatically excluded from scoring that entry. ZAAPA oversees the process and reserves the right to arbitrate disputes.
Scoring Criteria
Originality of concept, freshness of thinking, and boldness of the creative idea.
Quality of production, craft, and the skill with which the idea has been realised.
Demonstrated or projected effectiveness and commercial relevance of the work.
Cultural authenticity and resonance with Zimbabwean audiences and context.
Total score
Out of 100 points
Each criterion scored 0–10. Weighted total computed per entry.
The Process
How It Works.
Entries Close
All entries and payments must be received by 15 November 2026. No late entries accepted.
Panel Assignment
Each submitted entry is assigned to at least two independent judges in the relevant category.
Individual Scoring
Judges review entries privately and submit scores for each criterion with written comments.
Aggregate & Review
ZAAPA aggregates scores. Any statistical outliers are flagged for review by the panel chair.
Shortlist Released
Top-scoring entries per category are shortlisted and announced on 22 November 2026.
Winners Announced
Category winners are revealed at the Ngoma Awards ceremony on 27 November 2026.
Integrity Pledge
"The Ngoma Awards judging process is designed to be the most rigorous and impartial in Zimbabwe. Every score, every decision, and every winner reflects the genuine merit of the work — nothing else."
— ZAAPA Board