Harare — THREE photographers - one from Zambia and two from Zimbabwe were honoured with best photo prizes during the official launch of Gwanza Photo exhibition on Tuesday night at the National Arts Gallery.

Hillary Maradzike scooped the first prize worth US$300 while Masimba Sasa and Zambian, Salim Henry came second and third respectively walking away with US$100 each.

Nancy Muteki was also awarded a certificate as the most prolific upcoming young photographer.

Tsvangirai Mukwazhi - who sponsored the prize money together with Desmond Kwande called for potential sponsors to chip in and help the arts industry, which he said, was currently facing financial problems.

Speaking on the sidelines of the exhibition, Kalvin Dondo who was also the curator of the event said they were looking forward to seeing the event grow to international levels.

"Despite encountering some financial huddles we are happy that the event was a success.

"We hope that next time we are going to have enough funding which will allow us to organise something bigger," said Dondo.

He added that people involved in sculpture and other arts segments should show initiative and declare their presence through exhibiting their work at more pronounced exhibitions where many people could access them.

The exhibition saw photographers from Cameroon, Nigeria, Tanzania, South Africa and Zambia showcasing their work.