Sounds of Heaven to Fill Bulawayo: Ekhaya Worship Festival 2025 Set to Ignite Africa Day with Gospel Harmony
Bulawayo is set to vibrate with the powerful sounds of praise and worship on Africa Day as the inaugural Ekhaya Worship Festival 2025 takes center stage at the ZITF Hall 3. From the deep-rooted melodies of traditional gospel to the high-octane rhythms of modern praise, the festival promises an unforgettable spiritual and cultural experience that will echo far beyond the city.
At the helm of this groundbreaking event is Everton Mlalazi, a multi-award-winning Zimbabwean gospel artist with international acclaim. More than just a singer, Mlalazi is the driving force and visionary behind the festival, which takes its name from the Ndebele word Ekhaya, meaning “home.” He describes the event as “a sacred homecoming of faith” under the spiritually enriching theme Umtombo wez’busiso (The Fountain of Blessings).
A Divine Gathering of Gospel Voices
Ekhaya Worship Festival 2025 is not just another concert on the calendar. It is a movement—one that merges music, healing, hope, and unity. Beginning at 8AM and running through to 10PM, the day-long event features a powerhouse lineup of local, regional, and international gospel artists, offering a diverse soundscape that reflects the richness of the Christian faith across cultures and generations.
Headlining international guests include:
- Wayburn Dean – A soulful voice from the United States.
- George Pendergrass – Renowned vocal coach and singer.
- Robert Guy – An influential artistic director in gospel circles.
Also gracing the stage are Southern Africa’s beloved acts like Takesure Zamar, Mkhululi Bhebhe, Sbu Noah (from Joyous Celebration), VOP Music, Sipho Snowy, and Vocal Ex.
Zimbabwe’s homegrown gospel elite will also shine, including:
- Pastor Barak
- Mai Mwamuka
- Lorraine Maplanka
- Canaan Nyathi
- Vusa Mangena
- Harvest House
- Nyangombe Brothers
- Conquerors Afrika
- Revealed Family
Mlalazi emphasized that the diversity of performers ensures every attendee finds a unique spiritual resonance. “Whether it’s traditional gospel fire, choral harmonies, or upbeat praise, the Ekhaya Worship Festival is where everyone will find their connection point to God,” he said.
More Than Music: A Festival with Purpose
True to its theme, The Fountain of Blessings, the festival aims to pour blessings into every area of life—not just the soul. Attendees will benefit from a free health expo, where qualified healthcare professionals will offer:
- Free medical check-ups and screenings
- Health education and wellness guidance
- Basic treatment and referrals
Mlalazi described this initiative as an extension of worship itself: “Worship is holistic. As we minister to hearts, we also serve the body. We are creating a space where healing flows in every form.”
A Community Revival and Cultural Celebration
Beyond the stage, the festival will also function as a vibrant cultural marketplace. Local vendors, small businesses, youth groups, and faith-based organizations will be actively involved, turning the event into a community upliftment platform that promotes economic opportunity and social engagement.
Adding a touch of suspense and excitement, attendees can participate in a US$10 raffle draw for a yet-to-be-revealed “transformative surprise prize.” Mlalazi hinted at the reward being a life-changing experience, though he kept details under wraps, teasing that “it’s shrouded in divine suspense.”
A Revival Begins at Home
For Mlalazi, hosting the festival in Bulawayo—his hometown—is deeply symbolic. “This is where I come from. Bringing it back home is a way of honouring my roots and sowing into the community that shaped me,” he shared.
As the sounds of worship rise and spirits are lifted, the Ekhaya Worship Festival 2025 stands poised to become a landmark event on Africa’s gospel calendar. More than music, it is a call to communion, healing, and celebration—a true homecoming to the heart of worship.
