Langalakhe Mabena, [email protected]
ZIMBABWEAN Gospel musician Canaan Nyathi has credited his Africa Male Artist of the Year accolade at the Christian Legendary and Impact Makers Awards in Africa (CLIMA Africa) with restoring his hope and reigniting his passion for music after a difficult start to the year that nearly drove him to quit.
Nyathi scooped the award at a ceremony held at Solution Arena in Lagos, Nigeria, on October 9, which marked the 10th anniversary of the continental awards and brought together Gospel musicians, ministers and other influential figures from across Africa.
Other Zimbabweans who received recognition were Gospel musician Everton Mlalazi, who won the Africa Global Music Impact Award for his contribution to Gospel music, and Prophet Uebert Angel, who was named Africa Outstanding Pastor of the Year.
Reflecting on his journey, Nyathi said 2026 had been emotionally draining, with rejection by people he held dear and dwindling hope in his musical career pushing him to the brink of giving up.
He, however, credited a close Zimbabwean gospel minister for speaking words of encouragement that helped him remain steadfast and believe in better days ahead.
Nyathi said the challenges had taken a toll on his relationship with the gospel music industry, leaving him questioning whether to continue pursuing his calling.
“2026 was a difficult year for me. I was persecuted by the people I loved the most, people I spoke good of and did good for, even in their absence. Some things that should make them beat their chests with pride are things they still have no idea I did for them.
“The Gospel scene became a nightmare. Hope ended. One day, I decided to stop, and one man from Zimbabwe, who is close to me, stood and spoke words of love into my life. He told me not to give up, saying I would tour the world with Jesus,” he said.
The CLIMA Africa accolade has since provided a timely boost, reaffirming Nyathi’s belief in his musical journey and strengthening his resolve to persevere despite the setbacks.
The award adds to what has been regarded as a bad year, to a successful one for the Gospel musician, who recorded his third live DVD, titled “God and a New Song,” at Carnival City’s Big Top Arena in Johannesburg, South Africa, on October 3.
The 20-track project drew thousands of people from different walks of life under the theme “Building an Altar for Jesus”. The recording also formed part of Nyathi’s 40th birthday celebrations, during which he reflected on his journey and gave thanks to God for carrying him through the years.
Anchored on themes of gratitude, faith, salvation, divine favour and the sovereignty of God, the project seeks to encourage believers to honour the Almighty while highlighting gospel music’s ability to unite people across cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Describing the production as the best of his career, Nyathi said he spared no effort in bringing his vision to life.
“This is the best project I have ever done. Everything was excellently done, from the choreography and stage design to the lighting. This was also my way of giving praise to the Almighty as I hosted the event as part of my birthday celebrations.
“The inspiration behind the stage was to build an altar, and for this show, I had to build an altar equivalent to how God is blessing me. Hence, the reason I had no problems spending millions for this dream to come true,” he said.
