Speaking to journalists at a press conference held at the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality offices in Harare earlier today, Honourable Minister Walter Mzembi has endorsed the highly anticipated ‘Great Are You Lord’ concert headlined by world acclaimed Nigerian gospel musician Osinach “Sinach” Kalu. Sinach is a multi-award-winning singer, songwriter and worship leader with Love World Music of Christ Embassy Ministries.
In his endorsement statement, Minister Mzembi highlighted that there have been numerous requests for and by world-class performers not only to perform, but also to collaborate with local talent in Zimbabwe.
The Minister stated, “This concert falls under the Celebrity Host Programme initiated by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority which aims to invite different celebrities to visit and explore the diverse destinations and attractions throughout the country.
“In 2010, this initiative gave way to the highly successful collaborative concert featuring American based Sierra Leonean R&B star Akon and Jamaican reggae sensation Sean Paul.”
Black Studios have organised the highly anticipated concert with representative Pastor Promise Chikuni urging the nation to not allow denominational differences to affect people coming together to praise and worship the Lord.
He stated “It is an honour to be endorsed by Honourable Mzembi, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality. We need to embrace and support each other as Africans and we believe that this is only the beginning of more fulfilling concerts and collaborations.
“We have also made sure that we raise the bar for our local choirs and artists as we believe the only way to help sharpen ourselves is to rub shoulders with and to learn from the best.”
In his closing remarks, Minister Mzembi encouraged local musicians to leverage the non- monetary gains of performing alongside international acts. “What our musicians and artists need to also realize is that the benefit of performing alongside international acts should not just be limited to the dollar pocketed from their performance. They need to think more along the lines of intangible benefits like brand and collateral association which have long term impact and benefits for their careers in the future.”
The concert will be held at the Glamis arena of Saturday October 15, from 2pm with local acts including Minister Michael Mahendere, Zim Praise Choir, UFIC Choir and visiting Assent Tweed.
