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Arts Reporter

Organisers have announced the line-up for a show that promises to unite local, regional and international gospel musicians hosted by interdenominational group, Zimpraise.

Dubbed “Afripraise” festival, scheduled to take place in London, United Kingdom on August 5 this year, the show will be held at the giant auditorium of Gaumont State Theatre.

According to ZimPraise chief executive and founder member, Joseph Madziyire, Afripraise aims at unite all nationalities around the world and strengthening African cultural heritage.

Zimpraise, which recently rebranded to Zimpraise Legacy Network, will share the stage with some of the local seasoned musicians like Minister Michael Mahendere, Janet Manyowa, Eleana Makombe, Jonah Chivasa, Bridget Ndanga, Canaan Nyathi, Mathias Mhere and Benjamin Rupapa.

Guest performances will be by Nigerian singer Muyiwa Olarewaju, Scotland based Minister Rumbi, Grace Forlu from United States, Voices of Triumph and Cameroon based singer Maureen Forbah.

In an interview with The Herald Arts, Madziyire said preparations were at an advanced stage for a mega festival.

“We are now busy with the logistics from visas, travelling to rehearsals,” he said. “So far the auditions and rehearsals of the new AfriPraise United Kingdom team have begun and I would like to congratulate the new members who have made it to the list.

“As we speak they are already in the studio, cooking their gem.”

Madziyire said stakeholders were welcome to come on board to support the initiative.

“We are happy to announce Nyaradzo Group and World Remit as some of our partners,” he said. “The call is to every stakeholder who is willing to work with us on this festival.”

Madziyire said tickets had started selling.

“We have opened a ticket sale platform which can be accessed from anywhere around the world,” he said.

Madziyire said apart from the festival they will later host workshop and seminar on gospel music development in order to assist upcoming and aspiring musicians.

Commenting on the recent recognition given by Star FM and Zimbabwe Achievers Awards, Madziyire said he was delighted that they won and were still dominating in the gospel scene.

“We came from afar and it is still amazing that the goal and mission is continuing,” he said. “We are happy to have won the Best Duo-Group 2023 Star FM Listeners Choice Awards with a new crop of gospel outfits, it is difficult but good thing we complement not compete with each other.

“For the Zimbabwe Achievers Awards, it means a lot being recognised for global impact for the services to music and gospel promotion. We try our best and our secret is consistency.”