Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Gaborone Deputy Mayor, Mankie Sekete, has hailed the recently concluded gospel fiesta, dubbed Grateful Experience, held in her city by songstress Eleana Makombe.
The concert, which featured musicians from Zimbabwe, Botswana, and South Africa, was praised by Sekete, who described it as a unification of the three countries and promised to accept more of the show’s concept.
She endorsed the show and said during her speech that it has been long overdue to have such events in the country, as it not only promotes unity but also tourism and economic development.
“Thank you, Eleana Makombe, for such an initiative. Having such big names under one roof was something spectacular, and as music is universal, we all had one common goal , which is to be entertained,” she said.
“I am happy that everything went well according to plan, including the turnout out and it was like family. We enjoyed it and hope to see more of this.”
The event saw musicians such as Janet Manyowa, Minister Micheal Mahendere, Everton Mlalazi, Eleana Makombe, Takesure Zamar, Gospel Dj Unlocked, Canaan Nyathi, Blessing Jedthun, Minister Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, Snowy, Africa Praise sharing the stage with Shinkie Mochawacha, Tlotlo, and Omega Khunou, among others.
They all put up scintillating performances in their 30 minutes of fame.
It was a highly subscribed show with radio personality Yvonne Tivatye and comedian Nigel Maritinyu affectionately known as Slick Pastor as hosts as they sailed through their presentation.
Meanwhile, organisers of the event were happy with the appreciation and welcome they received in Botswana and declared that ‘Botswana is home’.
Soon after the event ended, they announced that they would be back on August 1, 2026.
“We are glad that our music has been well received and has the a huge turnout of fans. It is very difficult to perform in a foreign land, especially language barrier, but music is universal, hence we noticed some singing along during the show.”
“Some could be heard singing wrong lyrics, and this was a stamp authority that they already knew the music. We were skeptical at first, but after the thunderous welcome, it became like a home ground. We are coming back and thinking of occupying other African countries,” said Grateful management, John Makombe.
