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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Senior Arts Reporter

The Zim Peace Festival that was held at the Glamis Arena, Harare, was a huge success as the invited gospel musicians delivered polished acts.

The festival, which was spearheaded by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) in a collaborative effort between the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Christian Ministries Association and various stakeholders, was held to promote national peace and harmony through music in time of the local harmonised elections.

The show ran under the theme, “Shout to the Lord” and saw the line-up of local gospel sensation stars who include, Matthias Mhere, Baba naMai Charamba, Zimpraise, Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave, Minister Micheal Mahendere, Vabati VaJehovha, Vabvuwi, Tatenda Mahachi, Patience Masiyambiri, ZCC Mbungo Stars, Nyasha Mutonhori, Flame B and South Africa-based Zimbabwean singer Mkhululi Bhebhe performing.

Gospel diva Fungisai Zvakavapano-Mashavave, made a grand entrance which surprised many as she came in a pull cart, dressed in all white bringing the angelic feel at the festival.

She performed her hit songs which include, “I belong to Jesus”, “Mai Ndakanaka” and “Vanondibatirana”.

Pint sized multi- award winner Matthias Mhere brought the house down with his energetic dances and songs. Mhere performed songs like, “Ndisahwira Wako”, “Usavimba nemunhu” and “Favour” which was a special request from the minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Priscah Mupfumira.

He was later joined by the minister on stage as the crowd loved the act.

Mhere then conducted a dance competition of his fans on stage as his live band also proved its mantle. 

Baba naMai Charamba also proved that they are the gurus in this genre as they made everyone to stand and sing-along during their performance.

The power couple belted out songs from their old and new albums, including, the hit songs “Buruka” and “Africa” which drove the crowd into frenzy mood.

Not to be left out were Vabati VaJehovha with their accapella.

The crowd demanded the accapela outfit to sing, ‘Dzika Ngirozi’ which they featured on Winky D album.

They later called a fan to imitate the Gafa (Winky D) part which was successfully done, with invited VIP guest surprised with the level of talent.

Speaking at the occasion, Minister Mupfumira who was the guest of honour said she was happy with the festival and encouraged everyone to tell the world about Zimbabwe through music.

“We thank you all for coming to participate in and to witness this peaceful march to mark the inaugural festival that not only celebrates but promotes peace among people. We want the world to know that as citizens of this great country, we love to live in peaceful and harmonious environment and we are happy to always celebrate our diversity,” he said.