By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
You could have been anywhere in Harare on Saturday night. But for those who walked the red carpet into Zimbali Gardens, there was only one place to be: the launch of Eleana Makombe’s latest album, a night that felt less like a party and more like a family reunion soaked in worship.
It was no ordinary album launch. The evening kicked off with a touch of glamour as invited guests stepped off the red carpet and into a photo shoot, dressed to the nines for the black-tie event.
Under the soft glow of lantern lights and against stunning backdrops, the crowd mingled over non-alcoholic drinks.
Stunning . . .Eleana Makombe
A huge backdrop stood ready for fans to sign, leaving messages of encouragement for the gospel singer as she celebrated this beautiful milestone.
But the true warmth of the night came not just from the perfect setting of the launch for She is Grateful, but from the palpable sense of love and history in the room.
The guest list read like a who’s who of gospel music royalty, including Baba na Mai Charamba, Baba Mechanic Manyeruke, Everton Mlalazi, Josh Mtime, and the dynamic duo Elliard and Sharon Cherayi.
Yet, among the pastors, apostles, and fellow artists, one voice rose above the rest, not with a performance, but with a testimony.
When Apostle Chrispen Mahovo took to the mic, the crowd leaned in. He wasn’t just a key speaker; he was family.
“First and foremost, I want to give glory and honour to God, because moments like these are not accidents,” Apostle Mahovo began, his voice filled with emotion.
“They are divine appointments, beautifully orchestrated by the One who writes every chapter of our lives.”
Standing before the elegantly dressed crowd, with Eleana and her husband Tinashe nearby, he peeled back the layers of the artist to reveal the woman he has known since childhood.
“Today, my heart is full. Not only as a minister of the gospel, but as family. I stand here as an uncle, someone who has had the privilege of watching Eleana grow from a young girl with a heart for God into the remarkable woman we celebrate today,” he shared.
He painted a picture of a humble girl serving in the church, long before the spotlights and the album launches.
“Even then, there was something special about her spirit. It was not just the voice, although God certainly blessed her with one. It was the posture of her heart. There was humility, reverence, and a quiet devotion that you cannot manufacture.”
His words were a powerful reminder that for Eleana, this journey is spiritual. “Your music has never just been about melodies.
“It carries something deeper. It carries worship, testimony, healing, and hope. When you sing, you are not simply performing. You are ministering,” he said, before adding a heartfelt tribute to the woman behind the voice.
“But beyond the music, what truly makes me proud is the woman you are. You have remained kind. You have remained warm.”
And then, acknowledging the support system beside her, he turned to the family. “Before I close, I would also like to take a moment to acknowledge two very important people. . . Tinashe Makombe, her husband.
“Thank you for being such a strong pillar of love, encouragement, and support. Behind every great calling there is often someone who stands quietly but firmly, strengthening the vision.”
The sentiment of family and support echoed throughout the night. The party was in full swing as Eleana took to the stage, giving insights into her latest project.
A standout moment came when she was joined by Sharon Cherayi, the two ladies sending the audience into a joyful frenzy of song and dance.
Later, title sponsors Remit Hope added to the excitement by gifting lucky bidders with vouchers.
But the story doesn’t end with the music.
Eleana and Sharon Cherayi dazzle fans on stage
In a thrilling announcement, it was revealed that a book about Eleana’s journey, written in collaboration with revered journalist and event organizer Tafadzwa Zimoyo, is in the offing.
A must-read that promises to take readers through the trials and triumphs that have shaped her path.
As the night wound down, Apostle Mahovo’s benediction lingered in the air, a perfect summary of the evening’s spirit.
“Your new album launch, ‘She Is Grateful,’ is not just a title. It is a testimony. Gratitude is powerful in the kingdom of God,” he said. “The Lord has done great things for you.”
And on Saturday night, surrounded by family, fans, and faith, it was clear that Eleana Makombe’s journey is only just beginning.
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