Online Reporter
Mathew Masinge
AWARD-WINNING gospel musician Reverend Togarepi Chivaviro believes he has done enough to counter stereotypes targeting people from Gokwe.
The musician launched an album in Gokwe when he returned to the place where he was born, raised and began his career as a school teacher.
He launched his 22nd album, ‘Nyasha DzeGokwe’, at Leisure Lounge in Gokwe on Saturday.
The seven-track album celebrates his roots and pays tribute to the people and culture of Gokwe.
Speaking during the launch, Reverend Chivaviro vowed to bring more hope and transformation to his hometown.
“I am happy that I have done something for the people of Gokwe and the launch symbolises greater things to come.
“Just as God’s grace located me and transformed me, regardless of my background from Gokwe, the same can happen to anyone despite how people view your situation.
“Biblically, Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem, a place few expected would produce the Messiah.
“I am a testimony that God has graced me from Gokwe,” said Chivaviro
The album’s title track, ‘Nyasha DzeGokwe’, features musician Obert Chari.
Songs on the album include ‘Munhu Anochinja’, ‘Messiah Sunungura’, ‘Hallelujah Hossana’, ‘Ndoenda Kudenga’, ‘Simudzayi Pfungwa Dzedu’ and ‘Mukandituma Handirambe’.
Fellow musicians Blessing Shumba and Rumbi Zvirikuzhe performed.
National Housing and Social Amenities Minister Professor Paul Mavima, who is also from Gokwe, was guest of honour at the event.
“Don’t believe the hype that Gokwe is a place for illiterates, we are part of the bread basket districts of this country.
“We want the next generation to understand that Gokwe is blessed and can produce powerful people like Reverend Togarepi Chivaviro and others.
“We commend what Rev Chivaviro has done and urge fellow prominent people to always remember where they came from,” said Professor Mavima
Mathew Masinge