This year the Kora all Africa awards will be celebrating its 10th anniversary in style. The Kora have introduced a new category "Artist of the decade 1996-2005". Among the notable nominee for this category is the Tanzanian songbird Saida Karoli, who many refer to as the voice of Kilimanjaro. This is a big recognition for this artist who sings in her native bahaya language and uses traditional instruments to accompany her captivating voice. Saida Karoli has also entered a song "Omukaiye Kilinjwi," for the songwriting competition this year.

The Kora Awards are the first pan-African music awards which are internationally recognized. Currently, there are 23 awards awarded under 23 categories including the prestigious Life Time Achievement Award. The Life Time Achievement Award is given to an artist/music executive who has made a difference in the music industry internationally and the African Legendary Award will be awarded to anyone who has taken the African continent forward (both culturally and politically).

Previous winners for the kora awards have included Hugh Masekela, liver Mtukudzi, Busi Mhlongo and Koffi Olomid, who won the kora Award in several categories.

For more information go to: http://www.koraawards.co.za/english.