Onesimus chosen Southern Africa’s best
Malawian Afro-pop artist Onesimus has won the best artist of the year in Southern Africa at the regional 2022 Zikomo Awards.
The awards, which were held at Ciela Resort in Lusaka, Zambia on October 15, acknowledge and celebrate individuals and organisations who are contributing positively in various industries such as music, art, fitness, humanitarian work, fashion and business from across Africa.
Speaking from South Africa on Thursday, a day after he learnt of his victory, the Ex-Lover hit-maker said the award shows that his art is recognised in Malawi and the region.
He described the recognition as a win for the Malawi music industry.
Onesimus said: “It is a big platform and being the first Malawian to win such an award feels really good. It means we are doing something right and this recognition will encourage us to push the mission further.
“Let me applaud all those who voted for me, this is your victory.”
This is not the first time the Malawian artist has bagged an international award. In 2019, Onesimus won the best male artist in the Inspirational music category at the All Africa Music Awards.
His manager Tonderai Banda said the award is a product of the rewards of the rebranding the artist underwent in the past year. The rebrand has allowed him to cover various topical issues and presentations in his music.
“His new position has allowed him to flex his artistic muscles in different ways. So far, the feedback has been great and I am hopeful that he will build on that to improve further. Personally, I am happy that within a year of managing him, he has won an international award,” he said.
Onesimus is signed under South African music company Matharland Records where he works with three producers; DJ Megi, Zippy Fresh and DJ Sneja. He has made the Afro-pop touch the mainstay of his productions.
The Zikomo Awards, which are also known as the People’s Choice awards, were hosted by Zimbabwean Curtily Gwindi. Congolese Kwasakwasa star Awilo Longomba was also in attendance and performed at the event.
Other Malawians who were nominated include Zodiak Broadcasting Station television presenter Priscilla Kayira (TV presenter), Zamiwe Banda (make-up artist), Fighters Dance Crew (dance), Chimwemwe Ngugi (fashion designer) and Ekaree Danielle (fashion designer).
