Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
VETERAN gospel musician Charles Charamba believes worship music in Zimbabwe has reached a stage where it can no longer be pushed to the margins, declaring that the genre will continue to grow and dominate the country’s music landscape for generations to come.
Charamba made the remarks after being unveiled as one of the headline performers of this year’s July Worship Music Festival, an annual worship extravaganza hosted by Minister Michael Mahendere.
The revered singer, whose music ministry has spanned decades and inspired millions across Zimbabwe and beyond, said the genre has undergone significant transformation over the years and now enjoys widespread acceptance across different age groups, regions and church denominations.
“Gospel music in Zimbabwe has taken centre stage for a long time, and it’s never going to recede,” said Charamba.
“It has become broader, and it’s now adequately represented across age, regional and congregational divides. Gospel music is the music of today and tomorrow.”
His comments come at a time when gospel music continues to command large audiences, with worship concerts and faith-based events attracting thousands of followers throughout the country. Charamba, who has remained one of the most influential figures in Zimbabwean gospel music, said he was honoured to be part of a festival that seeks to unite believers through worship and praise.
“It’s an amazing line-up. Thanks to Minister Mahendere and the team for the invitation. There’s definitely something for everyone. It’s an event not to miss,” he said.
The award-winning musician also reflected on his role as one of the pioneers of local gospel music and said experience should never become a barrier to working with younger artistes.
Instead, he believes established musicians and emerging talents should complement each other in advancing the gospel message.
“Although we are privileged to have a remarkably long stay in gospel music, we don’t always stay in the past. It will be a joy to minister in oneness, as a team with the newer generations,” said Charamba.
“We are just presenting that which the Lord packaged in us, music that refuses to fade away. Old and new.”
The statement is likely to resonate with many gospel followers who have watched the Charambas remaining relevant despite changes in musical trends, technology, and audience preferences.
For many years, his songs have been regarded as timeless classics, with younger musicians often citing him as one of their biggest inspirations.
This year’s July Worship Music Festival is expected to bring together a diverse assembly of gospel musicians, worship leaders, and ministers from different backgrounds, creating a platform for spiritual renewal and celebration.
Over the years, the festival has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s most anticipated gospel events.
What began as a worship gathering has evolved into a major annual calendar fixture, attracting thousands of worshippers from across the country.
The event has consistently featured some of the biggest names in gospel music while also creating opportunities for emerging artistes to share the stage with established ministers.
Beyond entertainment, organisers say the festival is designed to promote unity among believers and create an atmosphere where people can encounter God through music and worship.
Festival founder and host Minister Mahendere said the vision behind the event has always been bigger than music.
According to Mahendere, the gathering was established to bring people together in worship and create an environment where lives can be transformed through the presence of God.
“The purpose of the festival is to unite believers from different backgrounds and denominations through worship. We want people to experience God in a deeper way while celebrating the gift of gospel music,” he said.
Mahendere added that each edition seeks to raise the standard of gospel events in Zimbabwe while providing a platform for both seasoned and upcoming ministers.
He said the inclusion of legends such as Charamba alongside younger artistes demonstrates the festival’s commitment to bridging generations and preserving the rich heritage of gospel music.
With Charamba’s endorsement of the genre’s growth and his confidence in its future, this year’s festival is expected to further cement gospel music’s place as one of Zimbabwe’s most influential cultural and spiritual movements.
As worshippers prepare to gather for the event, Charamba’s message remains clear: gospel music is not fading away. If anything, it is becoming stronger, broader and more relevant than ever before.
