“Ekhaya worship experience will be bigger and better” – Oncemore Six

After captivating gospel music lovers at last year’s debut edition of the Ekhaya Worship Festival, South African worship sensation Oncemore Six, widely regarded as a fans’ favourite, is set to return to Bulawayo for the festival’s second edition.

Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]

The highly anticipated event, already being touted as Bulawayo’s biggest gospel gathering, will be held on Africa Day, May 25.

The Themba Lendawo Yonke hit-maker said his first experience in Bulawayo left a lasting impression, describing the city as his “second home”.
“The last time I was here, I had so much fun. I experienced peace and joy, and I fell in love with the people of Bulawayo, especially after realising that we share similar languages. Coming back makes my heart full of joyful expectation. The first edition was amazing, so I know this year’s event will be even bigger and better,” he said.

Oncemore Six, who collaborated with festival host Everton Mlalazi on the song Muri Mutsvene from Mlalazi’s album In The Presence 3: Great God, said working on the project was a spiritually uplifting experience. He also hinted at the possibility of a live performance of the song during the festival.

“Working with Mlalazi is always refreshing. His passion for the Kingdom of God drives him to serve the church with excellence. Honestly, I did not see the Muri Mutsvene collaboration coming, but that’s how God works.

“The song blends English, Shona and Zulu, and I had no difficulties fusing the languages because I’m familiar with Shona. I have previously worked with Zimbabwean artistes such as Takesure Zamar Ncube. I’m definitely looking forward to performing the song live in Bulawayo,” said Oncemore Six.

The Ohlonitshwayo singer said worshippers can expect a heartfelt and Christ-centred worship experience from his performance.

Meanwhile, preparations for the free worship gathering are now at an advanced stage, with one of the organisers, Kevin Zhou, revealing that more than 15 000 worshippers are expected to attend.

“We are targeting double the audience we had last year, and we’ve made significant progress in our preparations. We’re incredibly grateful to our sponsors for making this possible,” said Zhou.

Besides Mlalazi and Oncemore Six, the festival will feature South African gospel stars Zaza Mokhethi and Dumi Mkokstad, alongside Canaan Nyathi and celebrated acappella group Reality 7. Other artistes on the line-up include Dunamis Men, Nkosi Herman, Mai Mwamuka, Conquerors, Pastor Barak Family, Zimpraise, Family Voices, Vocal Ex, Vocal Base, Blessing Jeduthun, Loveness Mukutirwa, Mwenda Shimunzhila, iWorship Zim and Tehillah Testament.

The spiritually charged event will begin at 9am with a business expo and continue into the evening, promising a full day of worship, praise and spiritual renewal.