Malawi stars shine in Zikomo Africa Awards nominations

Malawian talent has received recognition at the 2026 Zikomo Africa Awards and Caribbean Awards as local personalities have been nominated in different categories ahead of the ceremony scheduled for December in Tanzania.

Zeze Kingston has received three nominations as Best Southern African Artist, Best International Collaboration and Best Amapiano Song.

Navicha.

| Courtesy of Ireen Navicha

Others are model and Miss World Malawi representative Ireen Navicha for Best Model of the year, footballer Temwa Chawinga for Best Zikomo Footballer of the year and businessperson Schizzo Thomson for Best Zikomo Business Leader of the year.

Musician Joe Ikon has been nominated as Best New Artist of the year while musician Oana has earned nomination for Best Upcoming Female Artist. Musician Praise Umali has been nominated for the Best Album of the year.

In an interview, Navicha said she was surprised with her nomination, adding the election is nevertheless meaningful as it represents the effort she has put into her work.

“I’m just grateful for the recognition. It represents the dedication and hard work I have put in this year,” she said.

Navicha said she hopes her nomination will encourage others to pursue their ambitions despite challenges.

“I hope this nomination encourages people out there that they can still come out great despite circumstances,” she said.

Oana confirmed the recognition in a Facebook post, saying the nomination represented recognition of her musical journey and the support she has received from those who believe in her work.

“This is a beautiful recognition of the journey, the music, and everyone who continues to believe in me,” she said.

Oona also encouraged her supporters to vote when voting opens on October 5 and closes on November 30.

Priscilla Kayira, a previous winner of Zikomo Social Media personality of the year and one time host of the ceremony, said it is encouraging that Malawian representation at the continental awards is increasing.

“I’m hoping that as a country, we are consistent because this is how we are going to grow as an industry. We need to be consistent in applying for these things and participating in these things. We should not give up,”

“The more we have these international awards, the better for our industry and the better for us in terms of exposure because we don’t have enough awards shows in Malawi,” she said.

Malawians have previously won at Zikomo Africa Awards, with musician Temwah taking home the Best Zikomo Rising Star award in 2024 and Artist of the Year in 2025.

Emmie Deebo won Best Female Artist in Southern Africa in 2025, while Shepherd Bushiri was honoured as Philanthropist of the Year.

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