Firm Faith preaches unity, hope in new album

Zimbabwe’s finest acapella gospel outfit, Firm Faith Zimbabwe, has once again proved that music is a powerful tool for unity and hope.

The group recently launched its ninth album, Munesimba, during a sold-out concert at Sandton SDA Church in Gauteng, South Africa.

The event drew audiences from across the continent — including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Angola Malawi, Namibia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Tanzania — all united by their shared faith and love for gospel music.

“We know that South Africa is a key economic hub of the region. Many people come here seeking greener pastures, but they also face many challenges,” said Firm Faith music director, Marshal Matsilele.

“We are here to give them hope through powerful, uplifting music.”

Matsilele expressed gratitude for the overwhelming turnout.

“We are humbled that so many people came. This is a blessing to us, and we are happy that our songs are giving many people hope,” he said.

The concert, which featured guest performances from Reality 7 (South Africa), Rudo Acapella (Zambia), Reunion (Zimbabwe), and Emmanuel (South Africa), lived up to its billing.

“It was epic. The audience sang along to our songs, and their energy was incredible. South Africa showed us real love — we felt at home away from home,” Matsilele added.

Firm Faith made history by becoming the first Zimbabwean acapella group to perform at a sold-out concert in South Africa.

Security had to manage the large crowd, with some fans attempting to gain entry after the venue reached full capacity.

Among the songs that resonated most with the audience were Shoko reNgirozi Nhatu, Munesimba, Ngena Noah, I’m On My Way, Nginomhlobo, and Tenzi Nditungamire.

The group appealed for support to continue its regional tours, including assistance in acquiring a public address system and a mini-bus to ease logistics.

“We have seen the impact of our tours, and we’re motivated to keep going,” said Matsilele.

“We welcome anyone willing to come aboard and support our mission.”

Firm Faith rose to prominence in 2010 after winning the Harare’s Got Talent competition and has since become one of Zimbabwe’s most respected gospel ensembles.

One concert attendee, identified only as Grace, praised the group’s performance and its cultural impact:

“I am from Malawi, we are far far away from home, and we face so many challenges while we are here, we often have many unanswered questions, but I want to tell you that tonight many of my questions have been answered.

“I want to thank Firm Faith for such an uplifting concert my God bless their ministry and their families,” she said.

“All the groups that performed didn’t disappoint it was all on point, we have been blessed,” said Bonganu Mthembu, a South African.

Following the success of the South African “Munesimba” launch, Firm Faith is now planning to tour Mozambique and Angola.