By Dickson Bandera
The iconic Harare International Conference Centre will come alive this Friday, 13 March, as it hosts one of the most anticipated gospel music events of the year, featuring internationally acclaimed American worship leaders Naomi Raine and Todd Galberth.
The duo’s return follows a memorable appearance in 2024 when they performed in Zimbabwe as part of the globally celebrated Maverick City Music tour. That concert left audiences deeply inspired and helped cement Zimbabwe as an emerging destination for major international gospel events.
Naomi Raine has become one of the defining voices in contemporary worship music. As a prominent member of Maverick City Music, she has contributed to a global movement that blends authenticity, musical excellence, and deep spiritual expression. Her powerful voice and songwriting have produced internationally recognised worship anthems such as Jireh, Promises and Kingdom, songs that continue to resonate in churches across the world.
Sharing the stage with her is Todd Galberth, an energetic and passionate worship leader whose ministry has influenced congregations across continents. Known for songs such as Lord You Are Good and Greater, Galberth is celebrated for his ability to lead large audiences into moments of intense worship and joyful praise.
The concert will also showcase the strength of Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene, bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated artists. Audiences will enjoy performances from Janet Manyowa, Cleo Arie, Sharon Cherayi, Ellard Cherayi and the dynamic ensemble The Unveiled, creating a powerful fusion of local and international worship expression.
According to Lyncolin Kapswara, event director at Events by GEC, preparations are well underway to ensure a memorable evening. He said the organisers are committed to delivering a spiritually uplifting experience that will exceed expectations for gospel music lovers and worshippers attending the event.
Kapswara added that the inclusion of Zimbabwean gospel artists reflects the organisers’ desire to celebrate local talent alongside international stars. He noted that the selected artists were chosen not only for their musical excellence but also for their ability to minister through music and create a powerful atmosphere of worship that connects Zimbabwe’s rich gospel culture with the wider international gospel movement.
The choice of venue further elevates the significance of the event. The Harare International Conference Centre is one of Zimbabwe’s largest and most prestigious venues and has increasingly become the preferred location for major concerts, conferences and international gatherings. The giant auditorium has a seating capacity of approximately 4 500 people, allowing it to host large audiences in a comfortable and well-organised environment.
The conference centre forms part of the broader Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre complex, a facility renowned for hosting high-profile events in Zimbabwe and across the region. The venue offers a complete hospitality experience for guests, with access to numerous conference rooms, meeting spaces, lounges and professional event management facilities.
For visitors travelling from outside Harare, the Rainbow Towers complex provides extensive accommodation through its hundreds of well-appointed hotel rooms. Guests attending the concert can also enjoy a variety of dining options offered at the hotel, including professionally prepared meals, refreshments and catering services that complement the overall event experience.
Ticket prices have been structured to accommodate a broad audience. General admission tickets are priced at $20, while VIP seating is available for $50. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, a Golden Circle package priced at $100 includes premium seating and a special meet-and-greet opportunity with Naomi Raine and Todd Galberth.
As anticipation continues to build, the concert is expected to draw gospel music lovers, church groups and worshippers from across Zimbabwe and beyond, transforming the Harare International Conference Centre into a vibrant sanctuary of music, faith and collective praise.
