Online Reporter
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
South African gospel powerhouse Zanele “Zaza” Mokhethi is set to return to Bulawayo in May for the Ekhaya Music Festival, following her memorable appearance in the city alongside Spirit of Praise in 2025.
The celebrated Zulu praise singer, known for uplifting anthems such as “Thel’umoya” as well as vibrant township-infused tracks like “Ngena”, will headline the festival scheduled for May 25.
With a career spanning close to two decades, Zaza has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of gospel music, blending traditional praise with contemporary sounds that appeal to a wide and diverse audience. Her body of work has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal following across the region.
The Ekhaya Music Festival, spearheaded by local gospel heavyweight Everton Mlalazi, returns after a successful debut last year that attracted more than 8 000 gospel music lovers to the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
Held on Africa Day, the inaugural edition went beyond a traditional gospel concert, opening with a free health expo before transforming into a night of worship featuring some of the region’s most celebrated gospel voices.
The line-up included South African stars Omega Khunou, Canaan Nyathi, Reality 7, Takesure Zamar Ncube, Sbu Noah, Mkhululi Bhebhe and Once More Six, alongside local acts such as Mai Mwamuka, Pastor Barak, Lorraine Maplanka, Vusa Mangena, Conquerors Afrika, Vocal Ex, Revealed, Snowy and VOP Music.
Following the overwhelming response, Mlalazi confirmed the festival will now be an annual event. He said Ekhaya, meaning “home”, is rooted in giving back to the community that raised him.
“I’m from Nyamandlovu, and Bulawayo is my hometown. This vision was born from conversations with my wife, Gamuchirai, who also manages me.
She always listens to my dreams and helps make them real. To make the dream a reality, we worked with several partners and companies,” he said in a previous interview.
As part of its community-driven approach, the festival also hosted a free health expo during the day, aimed at supporting residents with access to basic health services.
More artistes set to perform at this year’s edition are expected to be announced in the coming days.
