Sidumisile Mabena
Langalakhe Mabena
South Africa–based gospel powerhouse Canaan Nyathi is heading back home to Bulawayo, not just to perform, but to stand shoulder to shoulder with his “brother in Christ,” Everton Mlalazi, at the much-anticipated Ekhaya Worship Festival on Africa Day (May 25).
The annual showcase, curated by Mlalazi, has quickly become one of the region’s most spiritually uplifting gatherings, drawing top-tier gospel ministers and devoted worshippers alike.
This year’s edition, promises to be bigger, louder, and more anointed than ever.
Nyathi expressed his excitement at being invited by Mlalazi, whom he considers a brother, to be part of what is shaping up to be the city’s biggest gospel gathering.
Speaking with deep emotion, Nyathi didn’t hold back about what this moment means to him.
“Ekhaya is not just an event, it’s a calling. To be part of something that uplifts God’s people at home, alongside my brother Mlalazi, is a blessing I don’t take lightly,” he said.
Nyathi described Mlalazi as more than a colleague.
“Everton is family to me. What he’s building through Ekhaya is bigger than all of us, it’s God’s kingdom work. So when he calls, I don’t even think twice, I come in full support,” said Nyathi.
The Baba Ziveze hit maker emphasised that this is not just another performance, as he said it’s deeply personal. The singer is returning to his roots, and emotions are running high.
“Coming back to Bulawayo always humbles me. This is where it all began. To stand on that stage on Africa Day, ministering to my own people, is overwhelming in the best way.
“There’s something special about worshipping at home, the language, the spirit, the connection. You can’t replicate it anywhere else in the world,” he said.
Nyathi added that fans should expect more than just music and should come ready for transformation.
“This is not a concert, it’s an encounter. We are lifting Bulawayo to heaven through worship. If you come hungry, you will leave filled,” said Nyathi.
The Ekhaya Worship Festival is pulling out all the stops this year. Alongside Mlalazi and Nyathi, fans can expect soul-stirring performances from regional heavyweights including Zaza Mokhethi, Dumi Mkokstad, Oncemore Six, and acclaimed a cappella group Reality 7.
The line-up doesn’t end there. A wave of anointed voices will also grace the stage, including Dunamis Men, Nkosi Herman, Conquerors, Pastor Barak Family, Zimpraise, Family Voices, Mai Mwamuka, Lorraine Maplanka, Vocal Ex, Blessing Jeduthun, Loveness Mukutirwa, Mwenda Shimunzhila, iWorship Zim, and Tehillah Testament.
As the countdown begins, one thing is clear, the free-for-all gospel gathering will be a celebration of faith, friendship, and homecoming.
Bulawayo, get ready, heaven is coming down.
Online Reporter