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Yeukai Karengezeka-Arts Correspondent

Celebrated gospel musician Minister Michael Mahendere has scooped the Best of Africa gong at the South African Crown Gospel Music Awards that were held in Durban on Sunday. 

The “Makanaka Jesu” hit-maker has also been nominated under the Best Gospel Artiste category at the upcoming Africa Entertainment Awards United States of America (AEAUSA). 

The awards will be held on December 18.

The Best of Africa gong won by Mahendere seeks to celebrate and reward excellence within the gospel music industry in South Africa and beyond. 

Mahendere shrugged off stiff competition from his Zimbabwean counterpart Tatenda Mahachi, Boango Fenju from Botswana and Linda Dhlamini from Eswatini.

Mahendere, who has numerous global awards under his belt, could not conceal his joy. 

Posting on his social media handle soon after collecting the award, Mahendere said: “Ndaverenga Makomborero Ndawona Akawanda . . . So grateful to God for giving us the grace to spread the kingdom Business through music across borders.

“We are the Crown Gospel Music Awards 2022 Best of Africa. I say ‘we’ because of you reading this. Thank you for streaming, sharing and being impacted by the music.”

Mahendere appreciated his fans for their continued support that has made it possible for him to receive such recognition locally, regionally and internationally. 

He vowed to remain on top of his game and assured fans to always expect the best from him. 

Fellow gospel musicians took to social media to congratulate Mahendere for his achievements at the awards. 

Hubert Chigumira, also known as Psalmist Hubert C, said: “CONGRATULATIONS my brother Minister Michael Mahendere for the award. We are proud of you, keep shining to the glory of our king and Lord. Keep the flag flying high. Much respect.” 

Pastor Olinda Marowa, a veteran gospel musician, said: “Woooow congratulations man of God.” 

Tinashe Magacha, who breaks barriers by fusing his gospel music beats with Zimdancehall, said: “Congratulations to Minister Michael Mahendere. He won the Best of Africa Crown Gospel Music Awards in Durban South Africa. Ini ndinodada navo mhani. Makorokoto Kwamuri Minister.” 

Another gospel musician, Alexander Gunda, had this to say: “Congratulations to our very own Minister Michael Mahendere on this milestone achievement. Surely, you deserve this more and more. Continue flying high.” 

Gospel musician Eleana Makombe said: “Well deserved. Congratulations Minister Michael Mahendere. This is the doing of the Lord”, while another gospel musician Blessing Deve simply said: “Congratulations Minister . . . our Champion”. 

Leading Direct Worship Band, Mahendere is riding high with songs like “Guta Rehutiziro”, ‘‘Tangai Neni’’ and “Ndamuona” off his latest offering Getting Personal With God 4.