Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Local artistes who have been roped in as part of performers at the launch of the First Encounter Worship Bulawayo Festival, set to be held on January 3 at a local venue, have revealed that they are hyped up and ready to praise and worship with Gospel music fanatics.
The festival is the brainchild of multi-award-winning, South Africa-based gospel sensation Canaan Nyathi, famed for his hit song Usibiyele.
The initiative aims to provide local gospel musicians with a platform to showcase their talent and share their ministry with the masses.
Local artistes scheduled to perform at the festival, which is expected to become an annual event, include Mdlongwa, Mai Mwamuka, Sipho Snowy, Vusa Mangena, Abigail Mwembe, Lorraine Maplanka, Faith Mucha, Nkosi Herman, Harvest House Music and Vocal Ex.
Seasoned muso Everton Mlalazi is also part of the line-up, alongside Nyathi himself.
Sipho Snowy said he is deeply honoured and humbled to be part of the launch of the festival, as he said being entrusted with such a sacred moment means a lot to his career as a gospel artiste.
“It’s not just an event, it’s a divine assignment, and I’m grateful to God and the organisers of the gig for allowing me to be part of what is set to be amongst huge Gospel gatherings in Bulawayo.
“Those in attendance should expect a genuine worship encounter, pure, heartfelt, and spirit-led. My set will not just be about songs, but about creating space for God to move, heal, restore, and minister to His people. It will be a moment of intimacy, declaration, and lifting the name of Jesus above everything else,” said Snowy.
Siza Mdlongwa said he is eager to experience the Lord’s presence as he is looking forward to beginning the year through praising and worshipping the Almighty.
“Starting the year in the presence of the Lord means alignment, direction, and surrender. It sets the tone for everything that follows. When we begin the year at His feet, we acknowledge that without Him we can do nothing. This encounter is about consecrating the year, hearing His voice, and allowing Him to order our steps from the very beginning,” said Mdlongwa.
Mai Mwamuka said it’s always a blessing to be remembered by other artistes and be incorporated on the programs they are hosting, as that makes her feel appreciated.
“This festival is a great opportunity for us to come together as Gospel artistes and believers from across the denomination as we unite to lift up one voice of worship. God is for us all, and if we start the year united, we are sure to overcome all the obstacles that the devil has laid in front of us,” said Mai Mwamuka.
Psalmist and worshipper Nkosi Herman said he is eager to connect with the masses, adding that his set will focus on reflecting on what God does for those who believe and follow His commands.
“Being a Christian is about being grounded and following the Lord’s commands. When one honours Him, they are rewarded with blessings. My set for the event is infused with songs that teach how important it is to follow God’s commands in order to be remembered and blessed,” said Herman.
Everton Mlalazi, who performs alongside Nyathi in Spirit of Praise, said it is always an honour to return home with purpose, expressing his excitement about being part of the festival.
“Bulawayo is a blessed city with immense gospel talent that needs support. I am grateful to be part of this event curated by my brother Nyathi, with whom I have travelled to all corners of the world, spreading the ministry.
“We are starting the year at home, where it all began, and we look forward to a great time in the City of Kings. Beginning the year with God will surely bless all worshippers at the event as we anticipate a year of breakthrough,” said Mlalazi.
Bongani Moyo