Staff Writer
Get ready for a night of harmony, history, and heavenly voices. Zimbabwe’s acapella gospel powerhouse, Firm Faith, is about to mark two decades of ministry in the most spectacular way possible—with a massive birthday concert that promises to shake the walls of Hippodrome in Harare on May 30.
This isn’t just another gospel show. It’s a jubilee.
And to make it unforgettable, Firm Faith is bringing together acapella heavyweights from across the region, including Reality 7 from South Africa, Rudo Acapella from Zambia, and homegrown favourites Shower Power.
Add a few surprise acts to the lineup, and you’ve got the recipe for what could be the gospel music event of the year.
Speaking exclusively to Gemnation, Firm Faith director Marshall Matsilele says preparations are in overdrive.
“We are working day and night to make sure this night lives up to the billing. We promise all our fans a night filled with joy, fun, praise, and worship.”
But here’s the twist: Matsilele admits he’s worried. Not about the talent—but about the space.
“We usually host our album launches at 7 Arts Theatre, and they’ve always been sold out. For our 20th anniversary, we chose a bigger venue, but with the response we’re getting on social media and other platforms, I’m concerned Hippodrome might still be too small.”
His advice? Secure your tickets early.
Late last year, Firm Faith sold out concerts in Lusaka, South Africa, and Zimbabwe while launching their 9th album Munesimba, with Mozambique and Angola next on the map.
“We have come this far by faith,” Matsilele says.
But the journey wasn’t always standing ovations. In their early years, the group faced resistance—even humiliation—from conservative church quarters.
“An elder once stood up while we were singing and ordered us to sit down in front of the congregation. We were called names. Some wanted us chased out of the church. But we never turned back, because this is a ministry.”
For Matsilele, Firm Faith’s sound carries spiritual and emotional weight.
“Our music gives people hope in difficult times. It has the power to heal spiritually and emotionally. If you listen with an open heart, you will never remain the same.”
Perhaps the most astonishing part of their story? When they started, none of the members were employed—yet they never cancelled a single performance, whether at a church service, wedding, hospital, or funeral.
“Not even one programme was cancelled because of lack of money. Today, we have medical doctors, accountants, entrepreneurs, and bankers—people who are employing others. We have every reason to thank God.”
With members coming and going, what’s the secret to their longevity? Matsilele doesn’t hesitate:
“Remove God from Firm Faith, and it will not last a minute.”
A major turning point came in 2011, when Firm Faith won the third edition of Harare’s Got Talent.
“That experience humbled us. We were used to singing mainly in churches, but it helped us realise our music is acceptable everywhere.”
Born in the early 2000s among students from the Seventh-day Adventist-run Nyazura Mission School, Firm Faith has grown into one of Zimbabwe’s most beloved acapella acts—honouring a tradition that traces back to 17th-century African-American spirituals while forging a distinctly Zimbabwean sound
Twenty years.
Nine albums. Countless lives touched. And on May 30, one night of pure, unfiltered acapella glory. Don’t miss the harmony—because Firm Faith is just getting started.
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