Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
SOUTH African gospel music giant Omega Khunou, is a living testimony of how faith can turn pain into purpose.
His journey, from despair and disappointment to divine destiny, is a message of hope to all who feel like giving up.
A beloved member of Spirit of Praise (SOP), one of South Africa’s most followed gospel ensembles, Khunou is set to minister at the inaugural Ekhaya Worship Festival today. The event will take place at Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre Hall 3, bringing together a rich line-up of gospel music’s most anointed voices.
Khunou revealed that the festival’s theme, Umthombo Wezibusiso — The River of Blessings, resonates deeply with his own life experience. Having faced seasons of lack, betrayal and near hopelessness, he says it was God’s intervention that lifted him out of despair and placed him on a platform to heal others through song.
“It’s an honour to be here in Bulawayo for this epic festival. Its theme speaks volumes to me. The foundation of Ekhaya is to bring hope to people, to encourage those going through tough times not to give up and to remind them that God is able to transform lives,” Khunou shared.
Opening up about his past struggles, Khunou shared the untold side of the gospel music industry, the exploitation, broken promises and financial hardship that nearly pushed him over the edge.
“Some of us have been hopeless before. We were abused in the gospel industry, robbed, lied to and promised things that never came. There was a time I didn’t have money. I was struggling big time. But because I didn’t give up, I now see myself as a winner,” he said.
His message is especially poignant in an age where many silently battle depression, burnout and suicidal thoughts.
Khunou had one clear message for them: “There are people out there feeling like giving up, don’t. It’s just a season. Hold on. Light is coming. God will send destiny helpers your way. Don’t even think of ending your life, God has a better plan for you.”
Khunou, who was brought up under the spiritual mentorship of gospel legend Bishop Benjamin Dube, said his journey is proof that faith in God, coupled with persistence, always wins.
“If you don’t quit today, you’ll win, as long as you have faith. Don’t let what you’re going through now define your tomorrow. It’s temporary.
“You may feel like every door is closed and all hope is lost, but I’m here to tell you: your season is coming. God is just in the way He blesses His people, everyone will get their turn.”
At Ekhaya Worship Festival, Khunou will share the stage with a stellar line-up including Sbu Noah, Takesure Zamar Ncube, Mkhululi Bhebhe, Once More Six (South Africa), Reality 7 and Canaan Nyathi.
Adding to the divine musical experience is a vibrant cast of Zimbabwe’s gospel elites: Mai Mwamuka, Pastor Barak, Lorraine Maplanka, Conquerors Africa, VOP Music, Revealed, Vusa Mangena, Vocal Ex, Sipho Snowy and Harvest House, all set to lead worship in spirit and truth.
At the heart of this powerful gathering is Everton Mlalazi, the festival’s host and founder.
With Ekhaya, Mlalazi, who celebrated his birthday on Thursday, has not only created a stage for gospel excellence, but a spiritual sanctuary for those needing reassurance that hope is still alive.
Tonight, as melodies rise and hands lift in worship, Omega Khunou’s story will remind many: no matter how dark the night, morning always comes and with it, a river of blessings.
Bongani Ndlovu