By Music in Africa

The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) has appointed Napoleon Nyanhi as its new director, effective immediately.

Nyanhi succeeds Nicholas Moyo, who was appointed permanent secretary in the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts, and Culture in October last year.

In his new role, Nyanhi will be responsible for executing the strategic direction of NACZ, fostering partnerships with key stakeholders, and championing the importance of the arts in society. His expertise will contribute in advancing the council’s mission to support and promote the development of the arts in the country.

“The National Arts Council of Zimbabwe extends its warmest congratulations to Napoleon Nyanhi on his appointment as director,” NACZ board chairperson Nozipho Maraire said. “We look forward to working together to build a brighter, more vibrant future for the creative and cultural industry in Zimbabwe.

“As an institution dedicated to promoting and nurturing artistic excellence across the nation, the NACZ is confident that Mr Nyanhi’s leadership will allow NACZ to realise its restructuring vision, strategic goals and stakeholder needs.”

Nyanhi is a seasoned veteran in the arts and culture sphere, boasting an impressive track record of leadership and innovation. His extensive experience includes serving as managing director of Jacaranda Culture and Media Corporation, the executive director of the National Arts Merit Awards and the producer of the popular talent search TV show Dreamstar Zimbabwe.

In addition, he has also held positions within the media and arts community, including production manager at CMedia Africa, founding station manager of Capitalk FM and programming manager at Star FM.

Nyanhi’s academic credentials include degrees and certificates from esteemed institutions such as Africa University (Zimbabwe), Clark Atlanta University (US), University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa), University of Westminster (the UK), and, most recently, a master’s degree in strategic management and corporate governance from Midlands State University (Zimbabwe).

Maraire added: “Nyanhi’s appointment comes at a critical time for the arts community as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving world. His passion for innovation and his unwavering dedication to the arts make him the ideal leader to guide the National Arts Council into the future.”