AT a time when healthcare has become unaffordable for many Zimbabweans, hope is rising once again through the Ekhaya Worship Festival set for Hartsfield Rugby Stadium in Bulawayo today.
The festival organisers said the forthcoming second edition of the event would once again stretch beyond music and become a lifeline for thousands in the heart of Bulawayo, through a free health expo aimed at giving back to the community.
Speaking to NewsDay Life & Style yesterday, ahead of the event, one of the festival organisers committee members said the health expo in partnership with Arundale Clinic would offer free medical check-up, screening, consultation by qualified healthcare professionals, as well as wellness education, basic treatment and referral.
“Thousands of people, from elderly citizens battling chronic illnesses to young people who rarely get the opportunity for medical check-up, are expected to access free healthcare services at a time when medical costs are beyond the reach of many households,” noted one of the festival organisers.
“What is making the Ekhaya Worship Festival even more remarkable is its ability to blend worship with practical community impact. This has seen the festival fast becoming more than just a gospel gathering. We are evolving into a movement of restoration for communities facing economic and social challenges.”
Derived from the Ndebele word “ekhaya,” meaning home, the festival, founded by celebrated multi-award-winning gospel musician Everton Mlalazi, continues to live up to its name by creating a space where people feel cared for, uplifted, and embraced.
For many families, the free health expo can mean early diagnosis of illnesses, access to professional medical advice and renewed hope.
While 28 artistes from across the globe are expected to share the stage in what promises to be a spiritually uplifting gospel extravaganza, the festival is also opening doors for economic empowerment through a free business expo.
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“Local entrepreneurs and small businesses have an opportunity to showcase their products and services, connecting with new markets while highlighting Bulawayo’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit,” the festival organisers said.
In the City of Queens and Kings, known for resilience, creativity and cultural richness, the Ekhaya Worship Festival is becoming a symbol of unity and collective healing.
For many residents, it will not simply be a day of music. It will be a day where faith meets action and community members are reminded that even during difficult times, they are not alone.
“This year’s Ekhaya Worship Festival is more than music. It’s a gathering of faith, healing, empowerment, and revival.”
As we celebrate Africa Day, we enjoy festival that encompasses powerful worship, world-class performances, healing, empowerment and brings hope to the people of Bulawayo.
On the musical stage, this year’s festival brings together leading gospel artistes and worshippers from across the world in a celebration of faith, music and cultural unity.
Among the stellar performers are South African gospel sensations Oncemore Six and Zanele Mokhethi, who return after performing at last year’s edition. They will be joined by Pastor Barak, Zimpraise, Family Voices and Zambian songbird Mwenda Shimunzhila.
Also set to perform are Takesure Zamar Ncube, Dumi Mkokstad, Canaan Nyathi, a cappella group Reality 7, Dunamis Men, Blessing Jeduthun, iWorship Zim, Conquerors, Mai Mwamuka, Lorraine Maplanka, Vocal Ex and UK-based Loveness Mukutirwa.
Mlalazi will also share the stage with Vusa Mangena and Minister Herman. The lineup reflects a rich blend of gospel artistry from different generations, cultures and worship styles, showcasing the diversity of the Christian community.
The festival received a major boost when Nyaradzo Group came on board as the principal sponsor and this, according to Mlalazi, significantly enhances the festival’s production value, including a larger stage and a broader lineup of artistes.
