Africa-Press – Botswana. While gospel music has traditionally been associated with church, its broad appeal recreates the narrative to that of a vital and valuable source of entertainment that transcends religious borders.
Spirit of Praise can be counted among groups and or individuals that are re-telling the gospel story.
The thrilling performance by the acclaimed South Africa ensemble on Saturday during, Nna le ba Ntlo Yame mega festival at the University of Botswana indoor sports arena demonstrated that gospel music was still a vibe outside church setting.
The event was a fund raiser by UCCSA for charity initiatives to assist NGOs and other groups under the support of the church.
Bringing on stage more than 30 members, including 10 lead vocals for hit tracks and backing vocals, the group did not compromise any of their performance.
Their four-hour nonstop performance gave the guests their money’s worth as vocals took turns to belt out favorite songs.
One of the event’s highlights was when multi award winner, Cannan Nyathi of Baba Ziveze fame took to the stage and blended effortlessly with the audience despite being a relatively new member of the group.
His soul-stirring performance and the contagious enthusiasm in his song, Ukwenzile, brought the audience to their feet, singing along and demonstrating the power and effect of gospel music.
Among the vocals were also Mmatema, of Moya waaka fame, Pastor Omega Khunou, who performed, O Modimo yo tletseng tshwaro, one of the song that catapulted him to stardom and still a favourite despite being released six years ago.
Benjamin Dube, the group’s leader, proved his relevance in the industry. The short prayer he offered appeared to be something that the audience longed for.
Taki Ndou, Dumi Mkostad, Mpumi Mtshweni, Everton Mlalazi and Sindi Ntobela also gave their best perfoamnces, while Ayanda Ntanzi finished the show with his hit single, Moya Oyincwele.
Event spokesperson, Reverend Pono Gakekgonwe said the event, now in its second year running was set to raise funds for charitable initiatives to help vulnerable groups in different areas and to also aid the church’s logistics across the country.
He said the assistance offered would give vulnerable groups dignity and a sense of belonging as well as encourage them to participate meaningfully in community development activities.
He said Lephoi Centre for the visually impaired young people in Francistown, Moeding and Maun senior secondary schools among other mission schools had benefitted since inception of the festival last year.
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