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Yeukai Karengezeka Entertainment Reporter
THE highly publicised concert, “Manyeruke Celebrating 40 Years in Gospel Music”, was successfully held at the Harare International Conference Centre on Saturday. Although attendance to the event was far below expectations, perfomers gave spirited acts in celebrating Mechanic Manyeruke’s 40 years in music.
Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Tabeth Malinga graced the concert.

Malinga said the ministry recognises the importance of gospel music and applauded the organisers of the show for coining the event.

“The Government recognises the significance of gospel music as we acknowledge that there is nothing people can do without God. He’s a product of our nation and we should give him his due honour as a pioneer of the gospel music,” she said.

The gospel legend could not hide his joy.

“l am very humbled and over-excited because in my entire life l never thought that at this age there could be people who can remember in this manner,” said Manyeruke.

“This has strengthened my faith in God and I will continue to offer the best to my fans. May God bless all the people that initiated and participated in this event.”

The posh Jaguar XF, to be handed over to Manyeruke in December by Pride Africa Network as a present for his contribution to gospel music, was on display at the concert. Manyeruke and his wife test-drove the car.

Pride African Network chief executive officer Shepherd Sirewu said they saw it fit to donate the car to the “Moses” hit maker.

“Manyeruke is one of the pioneers of gospel music in this country and we were moved to appreciate him by his consistency in the industry.

“We also want to make this an annual event like South African Crown Gospel Music Awards. We will be giving awards to both upcoming and established artistes. We want our children to know that they can also be rewarded in gospel music,” Sirewu said.

Manyeruke (71) gave an energetic performance that left his fans begging for more as he sang some of his yesteryear songs.

He also performed songs “Ndinoraramira Jesu” and “Sauro” off the latest eight-track album titled “Kubva Muguruva” he launched yesterday.

However, Manyeruke’s son dancehall chanter “Guspy Warrior” who also performed at the event did not sing his most popular song “Seunononga”. Instead he sang “l say no way” and a dedication song called “Jah Jah” and left the stage unexpectedly.

Other musicians that performed on stage include the vibrant ZimPraise Choir, Vabati VaJehova,Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave,Bethen Pasinawako-Ngolomi and Mathias Mhere.

Goldtech Electronics donated a tablet Samsang Galaxy Tattoo worth $390 to Manyeruke and his CD was auctioned and bought for $300