Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Gospel sensation Everton Mlalazi has extended his heartfelt gratitude to the people of Bulawayo for turning out in large numbers to celebrate his birthday and support the inaugural Ekhaya Music Festival, held on Sunday at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
The multi-faceted event, which also coincided with Africa Day celebrations, began with a free health expo and culminated in a night of uplifting gospel music. The festival drew an impressive crowd of over 8 000 attendees.
“Bulawayo, your support humbled me. Thank you, ngiyabonga,” wrote Mlalazi on his official Facebook page the day after the festival.
Speaking to media at the event, Mlalazi highlighted the collaborative nature of the festival, which brought together a range of stakeholders and partners.
“It has to be noted that for this festival to become a success, we collaborated with a number of companies and stakeholders who had their products exhibited before the festival started,” he said.
“We also had a health expo which saw people being checked and given medication for free.”
According to Mlalazi, the Ekhaya Music Festival aims to become a key cultural and economic contributor to the city, offering not only spiritual enrichment but also tangible benefits for the business community.
“As it grows, the festival looks forward to bringing investment and development to the people of Bulawayo and spreading a message of hope,” he added.
“We saw people travelling from outside the city. This brought massive business opportunities in hospitality and the fast-food sector.”
The festival featured a star-studded line-up of gospel greats from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and beyond. South African heavyweights Canaan Nyathi and Omega Khunou shared the stage with Sbu Noah of Joyous Celebration. Other regional acts included Once More Six, Reality 7, Takesure Zamar Ncube, and Mkhululi Bhebhe.
In addition to the headliners, the Ekhaya stage provided a valuable platform for local gospel talent to shine before a large and diverse audience. Homegrown acts such as Mai Mwamuka, Pastor Barak, Lorraine Maplanka, Vusa Mangena, Conquerors Afrika, Revealed, VOP Music, Vocal Ex, and Snowy all delivered inspiring performances that resonated with festivalgoers.
Organisers have since hinted at a second edition of the festival next year, with plans to move it to an outdoor summer setting, following feedback that the indoor venue could barely contain the enthusiastic crowd.
The successful launch of the Ekhaya Music Festival marks yet another milestone for Mlalazi, who continues to cement his place as a leading force in Zimbabwean gospel music while fostering a spirit of unity, health, and celebration.
This weekend, he is set to perform in the UK at Eleana Makombe’s The Grateful Experience event in Birmingham. He will share the stage with Takesure Zamar, Snowy, and Canaan Nyathi, fellow artistes he performed with in Bulawayo, alongside other talented musicians.
