Southern African artists unite for gospel bonanza

Hage Geingob Stadium came to life with energy as gospel musicians from southern Africa joined Namibia’s top gospel artists for the second Restoration Concert on Saturday.

Concertgoers were uplifted by Zimbabwean gospel group The Unveiled and South African Hlengiwe Mhlaba, among others.

The local line-up included renowned gospel artists DEE’A, D-Naff, Clive & The Now Generation and Collective Singers.

Last year, the concert brought internationally celebrated South African choir Joyous Celebration to the stage.

Logistics and events manager Beverley Naris says the concert did not aim to make any profit.

“It was a thanksgiving event and our gift to all Namibians, aimed at restoring hope for a better Namibia,” she says.

Pride Panashe formed part of the local line-up, and says there has been notable improvement on the Namibian gospel music scene.

“The level of excellence among our gospel artists is increasing,” she says, lauding local creatives for their exceptional delivery.

Panashe says locally organised events of the same magnitude on a regular basis could grow the industry.

“It was amazing. We need more of these, as it will potentially grow our Namibian sound and industry,” she says.

Project Never Walk Alone (PNWA) spokesperson Elina Namupolo says the event was a great success and turned out exceptionally well.

“We are extremely happy with the turnout at this year’s Restoration Concert. All the performances were superb, and what pleased us was seeing so many young people coming to worship with us,” she says.

Namupolo hints at a bigger and better ‘Restoration Concert 3.0’, while calling on the public to come on board with support.

“The Restoration Concert 3.0 will be even bigger, but we need more support so that we eventually get to a stage where we do not charge any entrance fee,” she says.

PNWA wishes all Namibians a happy festive season.

“We would like to thank everybody who came out and those who watched online. Your support and prayers are appreciated, and Project Never Walk Alone would like to wish all Namibians a joyous festive season.

“As we enjoy the festival, let us always be reminded that we still have over 70 000 barefoot children, and we must redouble our efforts in 2025 to help more of them.”