A decade of Firm Faith

Desire Ncube
HARARE-based acapella gospel group Firm Faith Zimbabwe recently marked its 10th anniversary with musicians, captains of industry and entrepreneurs world gracing the occasion.
Firm Faith broke the Star FM “Gospel Greats” record in 2012 when their song “Wanyanya” featured on the chart show for 10 consecutive weeks.

The group’s music director Mr Marshal Matsilele said, “Over the years, acapella groups were formed but unfortunately some disappeared before even recording a single song. It is not because we are clever or we know what we do but it is through the grace of God. We have a mandate and we should fulfil it without fail.

“Our mission is to spread the gospel of the second coming of Jesus Christ and we will do whatever it takes to achieve that mission.”
During their 10-year musical journey, Firm Faith has toured Zimbabwe, participated at the Hope Channel Festival of Hope and the Joina City Festival of Choirs, and also performed with acclaimed US gospel music star Donnie McClurkin. They have staged performances in Botswana and Mozambique among other countries.

Firm Faith continues to perform at various gatherings like churches and orphanages, including Harare and Simbaredenga Children’s homes. The group was established in 2005 and rose to fame after coming out tops at a talent search programme, Harare Got Talent in 2011.

Their debut album, “Maria”, was followed by “Tinevimbo”, “Munenyanya”, “Chikristu MuAfrica” and the single “Wanyanya”, which rocked Star FM’s “Gospel Greats” show.

The group has done charity work at various orphanages, churches and hospitals in line with its mission of spreading hope to those who are afflicted.
Apart from Firm Faith, some of the groups that are taking acapella music to greater heights are Shower Power, Reunion, Stand Zimbabwe, Breeze, Light House and Unshaken.