Online Reporter
Mkhululi Ncube,Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
AWARD-WINNING Zimbabwean gospel outfit, Focus Acappella, is making waves in Turkiye, flying the nation’s flag high while performing at some of Antalya’s top hotels.
The group relocated to the city often called Turkey’s “tourism capital” three years ago and has been wowing audiences ever since.
Hailing from Pelandaba suburb in Bulawayo, Focus Acappella first made its mark locally within the Seventh-day Adventist Church before growing into one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated acappella acts.
Formed in 2009, the group features six men and one woman, delivering performances that fuse contemporary acappella with gospel, soul, jazz and R&B.
The current line-up performing in Turkey includes Cosmo Ncube, Thobisani Viki, Kudakwashe Nyikadzino, Justice Ncube, Isaiah Motsi, Palvin Sibanda, Ntandoyenkosi Ncube,
Tabitha Tshuma, Chantel Sibanda, Luke Kamanga, Larry Mukondo and Noleen Mujati.
Cosmo Ncube, the group’s administration and finance manager, shared the story of how their Turkish adventure began.
“We were approached through social media by a promoter working with top hotels. He saw our content online, liked our charisma and felt we’d be a perfect fit. We negotiated carefully and, at first, even worried it might be human trafficking. But after thorough background checks, we went ahead,” he said.
The move aligned with their 2020 resolution to fully commercialise the group and expand into international markets.
Once in Turkey, the group was warmly welcomed, with audiences embracing their music and energy. But adapting to a new country has not been without its challenges.
“Turkey is a bustling tourist hub, much faster-paced than back home. We had to adjust quickly, but we are enjoying ourselves. People love our performances and standing ovations are common,” said Ncube.
He added that their shows are carefully crafted to match the elegance of each venue.
“Our productions reflect the sophistication of every space. We blend timeless classics with Afro-contemporary sounds and global hits,” he said.
Language barriers remain a constant hurdle, as English is not widely spoken.
“We rely on Google Translate and other apps just to get by. Even simple tasks like shopping can become tricky without them,” he explained.
Being in a predominantly Muslim country has also limited their Christian worship experiences, leaving the group occasionally homesick.
“We miss our families, isitshwala and congregational singing. But within the group, we’ve built a family, set realistic goals and created a safe environment both at work and at home,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Ncube notes that racism has not been an issue.
“Turkish people generally love Africans for their bubbly nature and good morals,” he said.
Focus Acappella has released one album, In My Heart and six singles, including Bayethe (2020), First Noel (2020), Falling in Love (2020), O Come All Ye Faithful (2021), Why I Love You (2021), and Moya Wami (2023). Two more singles are expected before the end of the year.
Their accolades at home are a testament to their talent: Bulawayo Arts Awards — Outstanding Acappella Group/Act (2021), Matabeleland Arts Awards — Best Contemporary Acappella Act/Group (2023), Ultimate Brand OK Christmas Carols Sing-Off Winner (2020), Acappella for Africa Music Awards (AFAMA) — Best Virtual Concert/Session (2020) and Old Mutual’s Amazing Voices (Season One) —Top three in Zimbabwe.
