Online Reporter
Langelihle Dube [email protected]
BULAWAYO’s first Sabbath of July was marked by an evening of worship, praise and fellowship as celebrated gospel ensemble Radiance Acapella from Gweru, brought its Freedom Series to the City of Kings and Queens.
The concert held at a church in the city drew worshippers from different churches and denominations.
Held as part of the group’s nationwide Freedom Series tour, the event featured performances from several local gospel acapella groups before culminating in a headline performance by Radiance Acapella.
Founded in Gweru in 2012, Radiance Acapella has grown from a small ministry into one of Zimbabwe’s notable gospel vocal ensembles. The group has ministered in more than six countries. Inspired by Hebrews 1:3, which describes Christ as “the radiance of God’s glory”, the group has remained committed to spreading the gospel through music that inspires hope and strengthens faith.
The Freedom Series takes its message from the group’s 2025 album, Freedom, which explores themes of spiritual liberation, healing, forgiveness and finding hope in Christ. What began as a worship gathering in Harare has since evolved into a travelling ministry, taking its message to audiences across the country.
Saturday’s programme reflected that vision from the opening performance. Aura Music set the tone with polished harmonies that eased the audience into an atmosphere of worship before V.O.P Music kept the momentum going with an energetic and engaging performance.
The mood intensified when veteran gospel outfit Conquerors Afrika took to the stage. The Barham Green Seventh-day Adventist Church-based ensemble delivered an emotionally charged rendition of Lebo Sekgobela’s Lion of Judah, prompting enthusiastic applause as many in the audience joined in singing.
Influence Acapella followed with a spirited performance that maintained the energy and heightened anticipation for the evening’s headline act.
When Radiance Acapella finally stepped onto the stage, the response was immediate. The ensemble delivered a selection of its popular songs, with worshippers singing along throughout the performance. Each rendition drew enthusiastic applause, reflecting the group’s growing popularity among Zimbabwean gospel music lovers.
One of the evening’s standout moments came during an extended worship medley, where the group seamlessly blended Hukuru Wenyu Mwari, Rebecca Malope’s Moya Wami, the hymn Ndikhokhele Bawo, Ndenzele Uncedo and Ha Yo Mathatha into one continuous act of worship. Using only harmonies, vocal percussion and layered arrangements, Radiance Acapella recreated the sound of a full live band, showcasing the musical precision that has become its trademark.
As the worship intensified, many congregants rose to their feet with hands lifted in praise, while others embraced or prayed together, transforming the concert into a deeply spiritual experience.
Following the successful Bulawayo edition, the Freedom Series will continue in Kuwadzana, Harare.
