Odyssey Entertainment was named Promoter of the Year at this year’s National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), marking a significant moment for one of Zimbabwe’s most active events companies.
The award, presented on Saturday night, recognises excellence in arts promotion and event management.
For Odyssey Entertainment, the accolade reflects years of steady work in organising concerts, festivals and community events, particularly in Kadoma and surrounding areas.
In a statement released after the ceremony, the company described the honour as a shared achievement.
“We are truly honoured and grateful to have received the Promoter of the Year award at the NAMA Awards this past Saturday. This milestone is not just ours; it belongs to every single person who has been part of the Odyssey Entertainment journey,” the statement read.
Building a name in Zimbabwe’s live events industry
Over the past few years, Odyssey Entertainment has become a familiar name on Zimbabwe’s entertainment calendar. The company has hosted large-scale music shows, seasonal festivals and community-focused entertainment events that have drawn both established and emerging artists.
Its events have featured some of Zimbabwe’s leading musicians and international acts, while also creating platforms for up-and-coming performers. Industry observers say this balance has helped strengthen the local live music ecosystem at a time when promoters face rising production costs and shifting audience expectations.
By investing in sound production, stage design and security, Odyssey has helped raise standards at provincial events, particularly outside Harare and Bulawayo.
Kadoma, once seen largely as a stopover town, has increasingly positioned itself as a viable entertainment hub.
A boost for Kadoma’s cultural profile
Much of Odyssey Entertainment’s work has centred on Kadoma, where the company has built a loyal audience base. Its shows have attracted visitors from all over the country, providing a boost to local hospitality businesses, transport operators and informal traders.
In its statement, the company paid special tribute to the community.
“Most importantly, we want to thank our beloved Kadoma community. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and love continue to inspire us to do more and reach higher. This award is for you.”
Local business owners say major events in the town often lead to fully booked lodges and increased restaurant traffic.
For young creatives, the shows offer rare opportunities to perform on professionally managed stages without travelling to bigger cities.
Collaboration at the core
Odyssey Entertainment also acknowledged the network that underpins large-scale events — from sound engineers and security teams to sponsors and technical crews.
“We also extend our sincere appreciation to our service providers, partners, and sponsors who believed in our vision and stood with us every step of the way,” the statement continued.
In Zimbabwe’s arts sector, where funding can be uncertain, partnerships are often key to sustaining ambitious projects. By working closely with artists and service providers, Odyssey has managed to maintain a consistent events schedule, even during challenging economic periods.
Recognition at a national level
The National Arts Merit Awards are regarded as one of Zimbabwe’s leading arts honours, celebrating achievement across music, theatre, film, literature and events promotion.
Winning Promoter of the Year places Odyssey among the most influential players shaping the country’s live entertainment landscape.
For artists, a reliable promoter can mean the difference between a modest gig and a professionally staged show that expands their audience. Industry analysts note that strong promoters help formalise the sector, improve contracts and enhance overall production quality.
Odyssey Entertainment Looking ahead
Odyssey Entertainment says the award is not an endpoint but motivation to aim higher.
“Here’s to many more years of building, creating, and celebrating together,” the statement concluded.
With Zimbabwe’s live events industry continuing to rebound and evolve, promoters are increasingly central to connecting audiences with talent.
For Kadoma-based Odyssey Entertainment, the NAMA recognition signals both validation and expectation, a sign that the spotlight is now firmly on what they do next.
