This past New Year’s Day, the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) transformed from a mere auditorium into a high-octane sanctuary of sound and spirit. For the sixth year running, gospel luminary Janet Manyowa is at the helm of this cultural shift with A Night of Thanksgiving (ANOT). This year, the stakes are higher, the stage is larger, and the theme is clear: “Overflow.”
By Tafadzwa Gambiza
ANOT has evolved beyond a traditional concert; it has become a masterclass in event curation and a cornerstone of the Zimbabwean creative calendar.
In an era where the “earGROUND” pulse of local music is often dominated by secular genres, Manyowa has successfully built a premium gospel brand that competes with the world’s best in production value, lighting, and stagecraft.
The 2026 lineup is a strategic blend of regional giants and local trailblazers. Leading the continental charge is Nigeria’s Ada Ehi, whose high-energy ministrations have redefined the Afrogospel aesthetic. Joining her is South Africa’s Xolly Mncwango, alongside Zimbabwean heavyweights Takesure Zamar Ncube, Everton Mlalazi, and the legendary Baba na Mai Charamba. This convergence of talent isn’t just about music; it’s a celebration of the African voice in its most authentic and worshipful form.
In a bold move to cater to the growing appetite for long-form worship, this edition introduces ANOT Extended. Starting at 11 PM and running till late, this session shifts gears from a grand showcase to an intimate, raw encounter. Featuring the likes of Robyn Mafadza, Oncemore Six, and the vocal powerhouse FIG Worship Culture, the extended session is designed for the “marathon” worshipper—those who aren’t ready to leave the HICC until the sun rises on the first day of the year.
Powered by Ecobank, the event stands as a testament to the power of corporate investment in the arts.
By providing a platform where acts like The Unveiled and Joyful Praise Choir share the stage with legends, Manyowa is nurturing a vibrant ecosystem that ensures the longevity of the genre.
For the HICC, January 1st isn’t just about a new calendar; it’s about a deeper encounter. Whether you’re in the Golden Circle ($100) or the Standard section ($20), the promise remains the same: an unreserved devotion to the Sovereign King and a creative “Overflow” that sets the tone for the entire year.
If you missed the past ANOT, click the link below:
Discover more from earGROUND
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
