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Tafadzwa Zimoyo in BIRMINGHAM, United Kingdom
THERE were fireworks at the just-ended AfriPraise concert held over the weekend at Utilita Arena in Birmingham, England.
The festival, hosted by the interdenominational choral group ZimPraise, is a movement of faith, unity, and cultural pride.
Janet Manyowa, Everton Mlalazi, Kuda Mutsvene, Nyasha Mutonhori and Tembalami shared the stage with ZimPraise.
Mercy Chinwo (Nigeria), Ntokozo Mbambo (South Africa), Annatoria (Zimbabwe-UK), Limo Blaze (Nigeria-UK), and Jabu Hlongwane (South Africa) also took part at the show.
The star-studded line-up took turns to illuminate the show, which started around 4pm, and ended at 10pm.
Here in the United Kingdom shows start and end as per the stipulated times and Zimbabwean organisers can take a leaf from that.
With 11 performances, the stage manager Rumbidzai Matinanga, from Scarlet Media, who flew from Zimbabwe for the show, had to find a way to accommodate all the acts.
“African artists need to release that here in the UK, everything goes according to plan, no additional time for the artists and they understood the assignment even though it was led by ‘Holy Spirit’, as some say,” said Matinanga.
“I am happy it went well, the MC was on stage at 1615hrs, last year was not so great in terms of time management.
“I was involved from scratch.”
Comedian Nigel “Slick Pastor” Maritinyu and radio personality, Becky K, who were the masters of ceremony and their put on a very good show.
ZimPraise founder member, Joseph Madziyire, said:
“Our journey from being a single choir to a global phenomenon is a testament to our dedication and the impact of our mission to spread hope and joy through gospel music.”
Madziyire’s leadership has been instrumental and Afripraise has grown into a global movement, connecting African diaspora communities and celebrating the continent’s rich musical heritage.
“This collaboration has provided invaluable support, enabling Afripraise to reach new heights and expand its impact.
“Integral to this journey has been the partnership with Nyaradzo Group SIP Global. Nyaradzo’s commitment to cultural preservation and community development aligns perfectly with the values of Afripraise, making this partnership a cornerstone of the festival’s success.”
Last year, the edition was held at Gaumont State Theatre, London, and more than 10 local, regional and international gospel artists shared the stage.
Some of musicians who performed included Minister Michael Mahendere, Kudakwashe Mutsvene, Eleana Makombe, Sir Benjamin Rupapa, Mathias Mhere, Canaan Nyathi, Grace Forlu, Maureen Forbah and Jonah Chivasa.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter