adminMarvelous Moyo Gwanda Correspondent
GWANDA has been gripped by the excitement of hosting the biggest musical show in its history which is expected to leave a mark in the mining town.
The arrival of four heavy duty trucks in Gwanda from South Africa yesterday, carrying equipment for the show, created a buzz of excitement around the sleepy town.
The long forgotten town which usually hosts small shows will from Friday to Sunday host some of the top South African gospel artistes among them the queen of gospel Rebecca Malope, Hlengiwe Mhlaba, Lusanda Spiritual Group, Tshepiso Motaung, Dumi Mkokstad, Bethusile Mcinga and jazz legend Tshepo Tshola.
Over the past years, such famous artistes have only been seen in bigger cities like Bulawayo and Harare but a South Africa-based Gwanda-born businessman Justice Maphosa has brought smiles to many residents by making what seemed impossible, possible.
Maphosa, the chief executive officer of BigTime Strategic Group, poured a lot of money into the event — taking care of all the expenses including hiring, paying, feeding and accommodating the South African artistes and their bands.
The artistes are expected to land in the country aboard private jets on Thursday.
According to the organisers, the main purpose of the event is to praise and worship as well as celebrate the official opening of the newly-built massive Brethren-in-Christ Church in the town.
When The Chronicle visited the church yesterday, church members said they were excited and could not wait for the big day.
The four South African registered trucks could be seen parked just close to the church building premises.
Reverend Sipho Mhizha said the trucks carried equipment including musical instruments and tents.
“The preparations are progressing well and we hope for the best. We’re praying for a successful event,” he said.
Rev Mhizha said various committees were busy preparing for the event and people were assured of tight security.
On Friday and Saturday, the artistes will perform at Pelandaba Stadium and on Sunday they will proceed to the official opening of the newly built church building.
As the event is expected to attract magnitudes of people, efforts are underway to have more gates opened at the Stadium. The municipality is also busy sprucing up the stadium and grading the surrounding areas to cater for the parking of vehicles.
The free of charge event, which is open to all, will provide lots of business activities to cater for the huge crowds.
“It has always been my dream to meet the Queen of Gospel and I can’t believe she is coming to our hometown. I am so thrilled,” said Moreblessing Mathe from Spitzkop North Extension.
Local artistes among them Judith Moyo will share the stage with the South African artistes.
Online Reporter