Zimbabwean Gospel Artists Shine at CLIMA Awards in Johannesburg

Zimbabwean gospel music continues to gain continental recognition after top artists Everton Mlalazi, Dorcas Moyo, and South Africa-based Canaan Nyathi walked away with six awards between them at the African Christian Legendary and Impact Makers Awards (CLIMA) held at the Maslow Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Saturday.

The ceremony celebrated Christian professionals and gospel ministers who have made outstanding contributions to faith and music across Africa.

Everton Mlalazi led the Zimbabwean contingent, securing three major awards. He won Best Live Recording for Great Is Thy Faithfulness with The Vine, Best Music Impact, and Best Collaboration of the Year for Glory to His Name featuring American gospel star Vashawn Mitchell.

In a special moment, Mlalazi also received an honorary Doctor of Arts and Humanities degree from the Global University of Science and Technology (USA), conferred in partnership with the CLIMA Awards. The recognition highlighted his impact on gospel music and ministry across Africa.

Mzansi-based gospel artist Canaan Nyathi also made Zimbabwe proud, winning Africa Indigenous Song of the Year for Ukwenzile, a collaboration with South African group Spirit of Praise.

Veteran gospel singer Dorcas Moyo capped off the night with two awards, winning Africa Indigenous Gospel Artist of the Year and the coveted CLIMA Africa People’s Choice Award. The accolades reflected her continued influence and growing fan base across the continent.

Mlalazi expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, describing it as both an honour and a reminder of his calling. “I am deeply grateful to God for this recognition. Every good thing comes from Him, and I accept these honours with gratitude and responsibility. I also want to acknowledge my wife and manager, Pretty Mlalazi, and the incredible team working with her. This acknowledgment is a shared blessing and a call to use our influence to promote the Gospel of Christ through music,” he said.

Dorcas Moyo, who won Africa Female Gospel Artist of the Year in 2024, said the new accolades strengthened her resolve. “It’s an unbelievable feeling to be counted among Africa’s best. These awards show that our work is resonating beyond Zimbabwe. I feel inspired to keep pushing boundaries and serving through music,” she said.

Canaan Nyathi credited divine inspiration for his success, calling Ukwenzile a deeply spiritual song. “God blessed me with the gift of songwriting, and Ukwenzile is a testimony of His faithfulness. The song connects with everyone who believes, reminding them that God still performs miracles,” he said.

The victories by Mlalazi, Moyo, and Nyathi mark another milestone for Zimbabwe’s gospel industry, which continues to expand its influence beyond national borders. With such consistent excellence, Zimbabwean gospel music is firmly establishing its place on Africa’s vibrant musical landscape.