Glorious Hope Ministries Celebrates Debut Album After Ten-Year Journey
Among the tracks that resonated with the jam-packed church hall were "Kodi Mukudziwa," "Mukhale Ndi Ine," "M’chaka Kamodzi," and the title track, "Ndidza Msanga."
LILONGWE, Malawi—Ecstasy and relief filled the air as Glorious Hope Ministries, a youthful singing group based in Lilongwe, celebrated the launch of their debut album, "Ndidza Msanga," over the weekend, writes Tionge Hara.
After a decade-long wait since their formation in 2013 at the Gologota Church in Area 23 Township, the group finally unveiled their 12-track collection, and the anticipation was palpable.
The album launch was a testament to the group's dedication and perseverance.
With a conscious effort to avoid presenting poorly rehearsed performances, the supporting acts delivered near-perfect renditions, enhancing the event's atmosphere.
Among these, the Area 47-based Whispers of Love captivated the audience with their hit song "Osasunthika," which premiered a year prior.
Orion Singers and Beyond The Borders Ladies also contributed to the vibrancy of the launch with engaging and uplifting melodies.
During the event, co-founder Fatsani Gunya shared insights into the challenges that delayed the album's release.
“Over the years, we have predominantly operated within the youth demographic, many of whom have been students at surrounding vocational training institutes and secondary schools. As a result, our membership has remained fluid, with close to 60 individuals or more having contributed their talents and dedication to our cause over the past decade,” he explained.
Despite the fluctuating membership, Gunya emphasised the group's commitment to originality, noting that they have consistently composed their songs inspired by biblical themes.
“Perhaps that explains why it’s taken us all this long. We are therefore thrilled to finally present this culmination of our God-led efforts to the host community and the world at large,” he added.
Catherine Kachipande, the director of ceremonies for the day, set a lively tone right from the beginning.
When Glorious Hope Ministries took to the stage, their performance exceeded expectations.
Clad in their new uniforms and radiating confidence, the youthful singers captivated the audience with a display that felt nothing short of five stars.
Former Postmaster General Andrew Kumbatira, who graced the occasion as the guest of honour, expressed his admiration for the group's achievement.
“I like what I’ve seen today. Everything was on point. I might have been sceptical about the event upon getting their invitation some weeks ago, but no, I’m impressed. We truly need to support such youth-led ministries as they are already focused and committed to impacting positive change out there,” he remarked.
Among the tracks that resonated with the jam-packed church hall were "Kodi Mukudziwa," "Mukhale Ndi Ine," "M’chaka Kamodzi," and the title track, "Ndidza Msanga."
The founding members established Glorious Hope Ministries to provide a voice and a platform for those they describe as the voiceless within the church and surrounding community, thereby enriching both personal and congregational praise and worship experiences.