Everton Mlalazi launches Ekhaya Worship Festival

Bulawayo-born gospel star Everton Mlalazi is returning to his roots with a bold new vision  -  the launch of the Ekhaya Worship Festival, a spiritually uplifting and culturally significant event set to debut at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Hall 3 on Africa Day, May 25.

The multi-award-winning gospel musician, known for his acclaimed international collaborations and leadership in gospel music through ensembles such as The Vine and Celestial Chorus, is taking a step further in his mission to fuse worship, community, and heritage.

Running under the theme Umthombo Wezibusiso (The River of Blessings), the inaugural edition of the festival is free to the public and promises a powerful atmosphere of praise and worship. It brings together a lineup of top gospel acts including South Africa's Joyous Celebration's Sbu Noah, Canaan Nyathi from Spirit of Praise, Takesure Zamar Ncube, Mkhululi Bhebhe, Omega Khunou, Xolisa Kwinana, and Once More Six of Reality 7.

Local gospel favourites such as Mai Mwamuka, Pastor Barak, Lorraine Maplanka, VOP Music, Vusa Mangena, Vocal Ex, Sipho Snowy, Conquerors Africa, Revealed, and Harvest House will also grace the stage, offering a dynamic blend of voices that reflect the diversity and depth of Zimbabwe's gospel scene.

For Mlalazi, the festival is more than a musical showcase  -  it is the fulfilment of a childhood dream nurtured in Nyamandlovu, Matabeleland North, and rooted in a deep love for worship and community.

"Over the years, I've carried a dream in my heart to return to Ekhaya koBulawayo and organise a concert that unites people from all walks of life in praise to one God," said Mlalazi. "This festival is more than just an event; it's a heartfelt mission to bring people closer to God through music, unity, and shared faith."

The idea for the festival was sparked by his emotional Homecoming concert held in Bulawayo in 2022, which reaffirmed his desire to make a lasting impact in the region. Looking ahead, Mlalazi hopes to expand the festival across Matabeleland, turning Ekhaya into a beacon of worship that connects rural and urban communities through gospel music and service.

Mlalazi credited his wife and manager, Gamuchirai, for helping bring the dream to life. "She is not only my life partner but also my creative collaborator and confidant. Without her encouragement, many of the visions I have might never have materialised. I am grateful every day for her presence in my life," he said.

Adding to the festival's community-driven focus, a Free Health Expo will run alongside the musical programme. Open to all attendees, the expo will provide medical check-ups, health education, basic treatments, and wellness consultations.

"We believe that worship and spiritual growth are interconnected with physical well-being," said Mlalazi. "This festival is not just about music; it's about caring for the whole person  -  spiritually, emotionally, and physically."

Despite the challenges of organising a large-scale annual event, Mlalazi remains committed to the long-term vision. "Our ultimate goal is to establish the festival as a celebrated gospel extravaganza that unites hearts in worship and strengthens our collective faith journey," he said.

With its fusion of faith, music, wellness, and cultural pride, the Ekhaya Worship Festival is poised to become a landmark event in Zimbabwe's gospel calendar  -  a true river of blessings flowing from home to the nation.