By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zimbabwe’s famed gospel couple of Charles and Olivia Charamba are elated to be part of Janet Manyowa’s A Night of Thanksgiving or simply ANOT scheduled for January 1, 2026 at the Harare International Conference Centre.
The show will also feature some heavy hitters in gospel music the likes of Nigeria’s Ada Ehi, South Africa’s Takesure Zama, Zimbabwe’s Everton Mlalazi, Xolly, Ellard and Sharon Cherayi, Joyful Praise and The Unveiled.
The inclusion of the Charambas adds a profound layer of legacy and excitement to the already stellar roster.
Often referred to as the “First Family of Zimbabwean Gospel,” Charles and Olivia Charamba have shaped the genre for over two decades with timeless hits like “Mai Ndasara,” “Makanaka Jesu,” and “Mufudzi Wangu.”
Their presence bridges the iconic sounds of gospel’s golden era with the event’s contemporary worship energy.
In a promo video, the Charambas urged fans to come in their numbers to celebrate the first day of 2026 through praise and worship music.
“This is more than a concert; it is a gathering of believers to start the year on a foundation of thanksgiving,” said Olivia Charamba. “We are honoured to raise our voices alongside these powerful ministers.”
Over the years, ANOT, masterminded by award-winning songstress Janet Manyowa, has grown in both numbers and stature, evolving into a premier inter-generational gospel experience.
It has consistently offered a pan-African line-up, seamlessly blending powerhouse artists from South Africa and Nigeria with Zimbabwe’s finest.
This 2026 edition is a testament to that expansive vision. The lineup promises a dynamic spiritual journey: from the explosive praise anthems of Nigeria’s Ada Ehi, to the soul-stirring Zulu gospel of Takesure Zama, the profound worship of Everton Mlalazi (fresh off his hit “Muri Mutsvene”), and the vibrant choral excellence of groups like Joyful Praise.
“The vision for ANOT has always been unity and thanksgiving across borders,” said event founder Janet Manyowa.
“”Having pillars like Baba and Amai Charamba join this celebration signifies the beautiful tapestry of worship we are weaving for the nation.”
To show the runaway popularity of the concert, early bird tickets for the VIP section sold out within 15 days of their release, setting a frantic pace for the remaining standard tickets.
Industry analysts predict a complete sell-out weeks before the event, anticipating a record-breaking crowd to usher in 2026.
Gospel music lovers are now set to be ushered into the New Year on a wave of blessings and anointing, united in song with a continent-spanning family of faith.
ANOT 2026 is poised not just to be a night of music, but a monumental spiritual gathering for the history books.
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