Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Hub
HARARE answered the call to Arise on Saturday night as Nigerian gospel powerhouse Sinach brought her tour to Zimbabwe, serenading a packed Celebration Centre with a night of praise, worship and music.
The concert formed part of Sinach’s wider international touring programme and brought together some of Zimbabwe’s leading gospel voices, alongside fellow Nigerian star Victor Thompson.
The event had been billed as a major worship gathering, with the local line-up including Bonnie Deuschle and Celebration Choir, Joyful Praise Choir, Eleana Makombe, Janet Manyowa and Minister Ellard and Sharon Cherayi.
For Sinach, however, it was the connection with the Zimbabwean audience that stood out.
At various points during her set, the Grammy-nominated gospel singer appeared genuinely delighted to be in Zimbabwe, leading the crowd through familiar worship anthems and allowing the audience to take over some of the singing.
“Zimbabwe, you are blessed,” she told the crowd, a simple declaration that drew a warm response.
She also expressed her happiness at being in the country before taking the audience through some of the songs that have made her one of Africa’s most recognisable gospel exports.
Sinach’s performance was at its strongest when she allowed the audience to become part of the music.
Songs such as “Way Maker”, “I Know Who I Am” and “Makanaka Jesu” became collective worship moments, with thousands of voices singing along.
“Way Maker”, in particular, demonstrated the international reach of Sinach’s music. Rather than simply watching the star perform, fans sang back to her, turning the venue into one massive choir.
But it was “Makanaka Jesu” that added a distinctly Zimbabwean flavour to her set.
