The Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) has committed N$10 million towards the revival of the Namibian Annual Music Awards (NAMAs).

The awards are scheduled to take place this year.

Speaking to NBC News, MEIYSAC Deputy Minister Dino Ballotti said for the first year, awards will be fully funded by the ministry to demonstrate commitment. 

However, to ensure long-term sustainability, the ministry is actively developing a strategic partnership with the private sector. 

"Our goal is to create a platform that not only celebrates musical excellence but also inspires young Namibian creators to pursue careers in the music and entertainment industry. We are truly excited about the future of the NAMAs and the opportunities that it will bring to the music and creative industries in our country."

Ballotti further says preparations are underway with stakeholders, including NBC, NASCAM, BIPA and other industry players.

The exact dates of the awards have not yet been announced. 

"We believe that these collaborations are crucial to ensuring that the awards are inclusive, transparent, and also reflective of Namibia's diverse musical talent. We ask for forgiveness that we are unable to announce the official dates for this year's awards tonight.  However, we shall be doing so very soon. We also fully understand the anticipation surrounding this event, and we are committed to providing clarity in the very near future."

The Namibian Annual Music Awards stopped six years ago after their main sponsor, MTC, withdrew support, bringing the decade-long celebration of Namibian music to a pause.