Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
NIGERIAN gospel giants Sinach and Victor Thompson are expected to touch down in Zimbabwe tomorrow ahead of the highly anticipated Arise concert, which organisers say will deliver a powerful message of hope, faith and spiritual renewal.
The two international stars are set to headline a star-studded night of worship, with organisers promising Zimbabweans an experience that goes beyond music and entertainment.
They are expected to share the stage with United Kingdom-based Zimbabweans, Eleana Makombe, Janet Manyowa, Pastor Bonnie Deuschle, Celebration Choir, Joyful Praise Choir, and the gospel couple, Minister Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, among others.
For Sinach, the visit comes as she continues to promote her new album, with Arise, the title track, carrying the central message of the concert.
Inspired by Isaiah 60:1 — “Arise, shine, for your light has come” — the song encourages people to rise above difficult circumstances and embrace hope and faith.
In an interview with the organiser, Pastor Kuda Kapswara said the choice of Arise as the theme was deliberate.
“We really believe that Arise is a message that Zimbabwe needs at this particular time. It is a message of hope, faith and encouragement. Whatever people may be going through, we want them to know that they can arise from that place and believe again,” he said.
He said the concert was also an opportunity to unite Zimbabweans through worship.
“For us, this is more than just putting together a concert. We want to bring a spirit of unity and worship to the nation. We want people to come together, worship God and, most importantly, have lives transformed and people come to know Jesus Christ,” Pastor Kaspwara said.
He said the growth of gospel music and events in Zimbabwe was encouraging, but the ultimate objective remained touching lives.
“We are excited about the growth that we are seeing in the gospel space, but we believe the growth should not only be measured by music and concerts. It should also be measured by the lives that are being impacted and people coming to know Christ,” he said.
Pastor Kapswara said the decision to blend international acts with local worshippers was intended to create a unified gospel experience.
“We have some incredible local worshippers, and we believe they will complement the international artistes beautifully. This is Zimbabwe coming together in worship, and we are really looking forward to an amazing night,” he said.
For organisers, however, the success of the event will not simply be determined by attendance or performances, but by whether its central message resonates with those in need of encouragement.
While Sinach and Victor Thompson will provide the international star power, the concert will also shine the spotlight on Zimbabwean gospel talent.
Eleana is already in Zimbabwe and said she was ready for the big night.
“I am already here, and I am really excited and ready for Arise. It is always a blessing to be part of a night where people come together to worship and lift up the name of Jesus,” she said.
“I am looking forward to ministering and being part of the atmosphere that Sinach and the other artistes will create. More than anything, I want people to leave encouraged, strengthened and reminded that there is hope.” The Mune Nyasha Baba hitmaker said, “Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene is growing tremendously, and I believe we are entering an exciting season. Gospel music is more than entertainment; it is a ministry. Through our music, we can give people hope, strengthen their faith, and bring them closer to God.”
