Online Reporter
Society Reporter
A DIVINE current pulses through the streets of Bulawayo, infusing the city with an atmosphere that transcends mere excitement.
Residents, brimming with anticipation, await the inaugural Ekhaya Worship Festival — an occasion not just of gospel music, but of spiritual homecoming, hope and a profound sense of belonging.
It is as if the city itself senses the gravity of this moment, a rare opportunity to commune with the divine, to feel the resonance of sacred sounds and to be uplifted by the spirit of homecoming.
The Ekhaya Worship Festival is scheduled to coincide with the upcoming Africa Day celebrations on May 25.
The festival’s theme, “Umtombo wez’busiso — The Fountain of Blessings”, seems to foreshadow a powerful convergence.
As the country prepares to celebrate African unity and liberation, this gospel extravaganza promises a parallel celebration of spiritual unity and liberation within its own community.
Everton Mlalazi, the visionary behind the festival, feels a profound connection between these two events.
“We are honoured to officially announce the inaugural edition of what promises to be one of the most spiritually uplifting, community-empowering and musically rich events on Zimbabwe’s gospel music calendar — the Ekhaya Worship Festival 2025, taking place in Bulawayo,” he said.
“The theme of this event reminds us that when we gather in God’s name, we are stepping into a sacred space where heaven meets earth; a place of refreshing, healing and overflow.”
According to the multi-award-winning singer, “Ekhaya”, meaning home, is more than just a name; it is an invitation.
He envisions the festival as a homecoming of faith, a sacred space where people from all walks of life can reconnect with God and their spiritual roots.
In his heart, he believes this spiritual homecoming will amplify the spirit of unity and hope that Africa Day represents.
Mlalazi’s work has touched lives within and across borders, earning him local and regional accolades.
Notably, he won the Africa Best Male Artiste of the Year, as well as the Africa Viewers’ Choice awards at last year’s edition of the CLIMA Africa Awards held in Nigeria.
Joining him at the Ekhaya Worship Festival will be an exceptional line-up of gospel ministers, featuring some of the region’s prominent voices in worship.
Among them will be Takesure Zamar, Mkhululi Bhebhe, Dunamis Men, Mai Mwamuka, Pastor Barak, Canaan Nyathi, Sbu Noah, Lorraine Maplanka, Reality 7, VOP Music, Xolisa Kwinana, Conquerors Africa, Revealed, Vusa Mangena, Vocal Ex, Sipho Snow, Abigail Mwembe and Harvest Music.
“We have a powerful line-up that represents not only musical excellence, but a rich blend of generations, cultures and worship styles, a reflection of the diverse body of Christ,” Mlalazi explained.
“Whether you love choral harmonies, modern praise or traditional gospel fire, this festival offers a space for everyone to connect with God and with each other.”
According to the organisers, the event is more than just a musical gathering.
They have planned a free health expo, offering medical check-ups, consultations and health education, all provided by qualified professionals.
This initiative aims to bless the community’s physical well-being, mirroring the holistic vision of spiritual and communal upliftment that resonates with the ideals of Africa Day.
Local vendors and small businesses will also be integrated into the festival, creating a platform for economic activity and cultural expression.
“We believe worship is holistic. As we pour into hearts and spirits, we will also care for the physical well-being of our community. This is more than an event; it is a fountain of blessing. The event is expected to also become a hub for cultural expression and economic activity,” said Mlalazi.
This aspect of the event seeks to empower the community, aligning with the broader goals of self-reliance, unity and progress that Africa Day symbolises.
“The business expo and health outreach will take place between 10am and 2pm. After that, we will then kick-start the free concert,” added Mlalazi.
“There will also be raffle tickets available for just US$10, and while we are keeping the prize a surprise for now, we can confidently say it will be a truly transformative blessing for the winners.”
Online Reporter