Tanzania to host first-ever Hollywood African Prestigious Awards

Dar es Salaam. For the first time on the African continent, Tanzania will host the Hollywood African Prestigious Awards (HAPAwards).

According to Tanzania Arts Council Secretary General Kedmon Mapana, the awards will feature musicians, fashion designers, and filmmakers competing in various categories.

Mapana announced that the event will take place at the Super Dome in Masaki on August 10, 2024, from 2pm PM to 6:30pm, followed by an after-party. Minister of Arts, Culture, and Sports, Damas Ndumbaro, will be the guest of honor.

Mapana mentioned that there will be various categories, and for contemporary music, Bongo Fleva, they have decided to give more opportunities to up-and-coming artists.

"The goal is to provide a platform for international recognition, just like other musicians. I emphasize that nominees should arrive on time as the event will start promptly at 2pm. We value punctuality, so all competitors must arrive early," said Mapana.

Vice President and Co-founder of HAPAwards, Amber Washington, stated that they chose Tanzania to host the first awards because it is a peaceful country with great hospitality.

 Washington highlighted that Tanzania has many talents in music, film, and various entertainment sectors, showing great potential. "We are happy to stage the HAPAwards for the first time in Tanzania. It is a peaceful and amazing country. We love its music, and that’s why we have been influenced to stage the event here," said Washington.

Founder and CEO of HAPAwards, Tina Weisinger, said that their eighth annual edition focuses on celebrating the best of Tanzania and showcasing unique talents and creativity in Africa.

Weisinger expressed pride in hosting the event in Tanzania and collaborating with the government and various artists.

According to the list of nominees, Yammi, Vannillah, Founder TZ, Mrs. Energy, and Aslam have been nominated for Best Upcoming Artist (Bongo Fleva), while famous bands such as Malaika Band, Twanga Pepeta, Msondo Ngoma, Mlimani Park Orchestra, and Mjengoni Band have been nominated in the dance music category.

In singeli, Dulla Makabila, D Voice, Sholo Mwamba, Meja Kunta, and Wamoto Band have been nominated, while Stamina, Young Lunya, Rosa Lee, and Darasa have been nominated for the Best Hip Hop Artist award.

Some of the other categories are:

Best Artist (Traditional Music, Tanzania): Mrisho Mpoto, Saida Karoli, Awilo Kidume cha Mbeya, Wamwiduka Band, and Nyati Group.

Best Female International Rising Star: Abigail Charms (Tanzania), Nina Roz (Uganda), Nikita Kering (Kenya), Winnie Nwagi (Uganda), Belle Aire (United States).

Best Artist (Gospel Music): Zabron Singers, Neema Gospel Choir, Agape Gospel Band, Joel Lwaga, Rose Mhando.

Best Female Designer: Kiki Zimba, J’adore Couture, Khadija Mwanamboka, Asia Idarous.

Best Male Designer: Kulwa Mkwandule’son, Chuwa Fashion, Zado Fashion, Mustafa Hasanali, Ally Remtula.

Best Innovative Designer: Ekantik, Kingasira Zanzibar, Sheria Ngowi, Johary Jafary Kisoma.

Best Female Model: Glory Monyo, Anitha Mlay, Herieth Paul, Flaviana Matata, Miriam Odemba.