Janzi Awards 2021: Be in the know

Janzi Awards nominees have officially been announced. The ceremony is set for 11th and 12th December 2021. A quick one, an introduction to Janzi Awards…

The Janzi Awards are envisioned as an inclusive experience where outstanding achievements, innovations, and diversity in Uganda’s Cultural, Creative, and Performing Arts forms will be recognized and celebrated.

The Awards are named after the Janzi Instrument, which is a string instrument that was invented by the musician James Ssewakiryanga. The name was inspired by the Luganda word for grasshopper which is Ejjanzi who’s spirit and natural form are mirrored and inculpated in the design and feel of the instrument. 

Over 90 awards to be awarded are from various categories capturing key domains in the Industry and these include;

1. Music
2. Performing Arts
3. Collecting Societies
4. Film & Video
5. Visual Arts & Crafts
6. Books & Publishing
7. Software & Innovations
8. Cultural & National Heritage
9. Support Services

Janzi Awards’ inaugural ceremony is scheduled to be held on the 11th of December 2021 at Kololo Independence Grounds where H.E the President will be the Guest of Honor. The Awards will be hosted by the Uganda Development Forum (UDF) which is a national network of state and non-state actors united by a shared commitment to propel sustainable socio-economic development in line with the aspirations of the people of Uganda, as articulated in Uganda Vision 2040.

Outstanding RnB Artist

1. Naava Grey (Ngi Bambe)
2. Zulitums (Oluvanyuma)
3. Liam Voice (Omwoyo)
4. Outstanding Kadongo Kamu Artist (Male)

Outstanding Kadongo Kamu Artist (Male)

1. Willy Mukabya (Beera Mugumu)
2. JB Byekwaso (Ekirooto Kya Kafero)
3. Sekabira Moses (Nanfuka)
4. Best Viewer’s Choice Award

Best Viewer’s Choice Award

1. Pallaso (Malamu)
2. Felista Di Superstar (Bwotyo)
3. Eddy Kenzo (Weekend)
4. Outstanding Contemporary/world Music

Outstanding Contemporary/world Music

1. Giovanni Kiyingi (Buddu)
2. Kenneth Mugabi (Oliwa)
3. Joel Ssebunjo (Rise Up Africa)
4. Emerging Artist Award

Emerging Artist Award

1. Mudra (Muyaayu)
2. Zex Bilangilangi (Nalinda)
3. Mr. EeZzy (Tumbiiza Sound)
4. Outstanding Legendary Artiste

Outstanding Legendary Artiste

1. Mozey Radio (Tambula Nange)
2. Maddox Sematimba (Namagembe)
3. Jose Chameleone (Valu Valu)
4. Outstanding Talent manager

Outstanding Talent manager

1. Julius Kyazze
2. Martin Beta Muhumuza
3. Dorothy Nabunjo
4. Outstanding Emcees

Outstanding Emcees

1. Patrick Mujjuko
2. Brian Mulondo
3. MC Kats
4. Outstanding promoters

Outstanding promoters

1. Talent Africa 256
2. Kasana Events
3. KT Promotions
4. Outstanding Community Museum

Outstanding Community Museum

1. Igongo Museum (South Western Uganda)
2. Koogere Foundation Cultural Museum (Tooro)
3. Madi Cultural Museum (Moyo District)
4. Outstanding Art Gallery

Outstanding Art Gallery

1. Magezi Art Exhibition
2. Afriart Gallery
3. Umoja art gallery

Here’s how to participate in the Janzi awards voting: Go to www.janziawards.com/Vote