Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
GOSPEL music is surging in Zimbabwe, with nearly every weekend now dominated by concerts, worship nights, and revival gatherings, whether free or ticketed.
From city churches to large outdoor arenas, the genre has transformed into one of the most consistently active and well-organised sectors in the entertainment industry.
What was once seen as a niche space has evolved into a powerful cultural force that commands loyalty, structure and massive turnout.
In this moment, gospel music deserves not just attention, but respect and recognition for its growing influence and professionalism.
This weekend continues that trend as the third edition of the Free & Found returns to the Celebration Centre, once again proving that gospel is not slowing down— it is expanding.
The event, officially titled The Jesus Initiative Free & Found: Worship in Spirit & in Truth, has steadily grown into one of the region’s most anticipated worship gatherings, blending music, ministry, and atmosphere under one spiritual experience.
“The Jesus Initiative Free & Found: Worship in Spirit & in Truth is a worship concert that allows people to encounter God in a space that feels open, genuine, and alive,” said organiser Mirella Makoto.
She explained that the foundation of the event is deeply biblical, anchored in John 8:36 and Luke 15:7, which emphasise freedom in Christ and celebration of spiritual restoration.
This edition features a strong regional line-up including South Africa’s Khaya Mthethwa, Hush South Africa, The Unveiled, and Zimbabwe’s own Minister Takesure Zamar Ncube.
Mthethwa’s continued presence in Zimbabwe has become something of a phenomenon among fans, with his frequent appearances in Harare and Bulawayo sparking light-hearted jokes that he is practically a “local” at this stage.
His past performances, including energetic collaborations on the Celestial Chorus stage and guest appearances at Janet Manyowa’s ANOT, have cemented his regional gospel influence.
He is joined by acts that reflect both continuity and freshness in the gospel scene.
“Hush SA brings raw, young devotion from South Africa that reflects our heart for the next generation. Minister Takesure Zamar Ncube has been woven into Zimbabwe’s spiritual landscape in a unique way.
“Pastor Khaya Mthethwa is one of Southern Africa’s most respected voices in gospel, known for leading with both energy and humility. And The Unveiled brings that unmistakable Zimbabwean vibrancy and excellence. Together, they represent range, depth, and a shared heart for a genuine encounter,” she revealed.
Unlike many commercial shows, Free & Found intentionally avoids the traditional concert model.
Instead, it positions itself as a worship encounter rather than a performance showcase.
“We chose artistes who minister, not just perform,” Makoto said. “We believe there is no single way to encounter Christ.”
She added that the event’s growth has been organic rather than driven by spectacle or commercial hype.
“It has grown steadily, not by chasing spectacle, but by creating a space where people feel seen, welcomed, and free to engage with God on their own terms.”
One of the most distinctive features of this edition is its venue choice. Instead of a closed auditorium, the event will be held outdoors at the Amphitheatre under the stars, a deliberate decision that organisers believe enhances the spiritual experience.
“The Amphitheatre allows for freedom of movement, room to mingle, and a sense of openness that a traditional auditorium simply cannot replicate,” Makoto explained. “We want people to arrive, breathe, connect, and then encounter God in that same relaxed, unhurried space. Worship was never meant to feel confined. Saturday night, it won’t.”
Beyond established names, the platform is also deliberately investing in emerging talent, reinforcing the idea that gospel music is not only thriving, but also building future generations.
“We are excited to introduce a gifted singer from Bulawayo, who we believe is ready for a stage like this, and we will also have a shining Christian comedian joining us on the night. We are deliberate about making room for emerging voices. It is consistent with who we are as an organisation. We believe in the next generation, and Free & Found is one of the places we put that belief into practice.”
The broader picture is hard to ignore. Across Zimbabwe, gospel music has become one of the most active and stable entertainment sectors, with consistent weekend programming, strong audience turnout, and growing cross-border collaborations. Whether free missions or ticketed productions, the genre has built a rhythm that rarely pauses.
This sustained activity reflects more than popularity, but it signals organisation, discipline, and a deeply rooted audience connection that many other genres struggle to maintain.
