Online Reporter
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
WHEN gospel couple Minister Ellard and Sharon Cherayi step onto the stage, it is not just a performance — it is a moment charged with spiritual power and national significance.
As their anticipated concert, “God The Lifter of Men”, is around the corner, the stakes have never been higher. Now moved to the Harare International Convention Centre (HICC) owing to high demand, the event is poised to become a landmark, not only for the Cherayis but for the gospel music in the country.
They’re not just aiming to fill HICC — they’re about to break records doing it.
Minister Ellard and Sharon Cherayi are set to make history as the first gospel couple to pack out the HICC mid-year, a feat usually reserved for gospel end-of-year festivals and international acts.
With demand forcing a venue upgrade and national buzz building by the day, “God The Lifter of Men” is more than a concert — it’s a movement. And the message is clear: Zimbabwe is ready to worship, and the Cherayis are leading the charge.
The shift to HICC is more than a venue change; it is a symbol of gospel music’s rising influence and the Cherayis’ unstoppable momentum.
They have outgrown smaller halls and community centres, stepping into an arena traditionally reserved for the biggest secular acts.
The decision was clear: when the people clamoured for more, the Cherayis answered with a stage worthy of the nation’s collective praise.
Adding to the night’s excitement is the arrival of Tanzanian sensation Agape Gospel Band, who have become viral stars on TikTok for their electrifying worship dances and vibrant performances.
Their presence signals a new era of pan-African gospel collaboration.
Agape Band is no ordinary guest; their fusion of contemporary beats and infectious energy has made waves beyond Tanzania, winning hearts across social media platforms worldwide.
Now, Zimbabweans will witness this powerhouse live, bringing fresh rhythms and a shared spirit of worship to the HICC stage.
“We felt the pull in our spirit that this wasn’t just another concert — it was a calling to reach the nation, to lift hearts in a time people need it most,” said Sharon Cherayi.
“When the demand for more space became clear, HICC was the natural next step, and preparations are at an advanced stage. It’s never about us; it’s about the message.”
That message — hope, healing and holiness — has propelled Sharon Cherayi to new heights this year.
Her latest hit “Huya” is no longer just a song; it has become a nationwide anthem of worship and surrender, echoing from churches to car radios and prayer gatherings across Zimbabwe.
It follows the massive success of last year’s “Fara Iwe Moyo Wangu,” which solidified her place as one of the country’s most powerful gospel voices.
Minister Ellard’s musical evolution runs parallel.
From his early days in the Zimpraise Choir to becoming a national minister of music, his soulful lyrics and radiant stage presence have captured the hearts of worshippers across generations.
Known for his infectious smile and genuine warmth, Ellard is as much a minister as he is a musician.
“God has been stretching us — musically and spiritually,” Ellard said. “We’ve been intentional, investing in our sound, refining our message and staying rooted in who we are.”
The Cherayis’ journey is rooted deeply in faith and humility. Despite their fame, they remain grounded, avoiding the pitfalls that often accompany rising stars.
Their continued ties to Zimpraise group — the choir that launched their careers — show a rare commitment to community and ministry over personal glory.
