Hiccups, Blunders Could Not Cloud Janet Manyowa’s ANOT

CHAOTIC scenes unfolded before Janet Manyowa’s A Night of Thanksgiving (ANOT) at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) on New Year’s Day. Chaos stemmed from a deluge of people who turned out at the HICC for the sold-out concert, catching the organisers off-guard. As long queues snaked outside the conference centre, frustrations grew when doors opened later than anticipated, with some attendees forcing their way into the venue.

Shortly into her set, Manyowa apologised to gospel fans for the disruption that had threatened this year’s edition of ANOT. “I am sorry. I apologise to anyone who feels hard done. We are learning,” said Manyowa.   Follow & Share Our WhatsApp Channel

The huge turnout and the organisers’ initial lack of preparedness raised questions over whether the HICC remains a suitable venue for the gospel songstress. ANOT, which in recent years has become one of the most anticipated events and was again sold out, stands as proof of Manyowa’s prowess as she continues to surpass her own standards.

The evening was marked by elegance from the gospel superstar, who delivered her customary super performance. Manyowa was complemented on the night by Charles and Olivia Charamba, whose experience was on full display as they seized the limelight with classic songs from years past, earning several recalls to the stage.

Nigerian gospel superstar Ada Ehi, performing in Harare for the second time in six months, demonstrated why she is one of the most sought-after artists in West Africa with a superb set. Joyfull Praise Choir, arguably the country’s finest choral group, wrapped up the first instalment of ANOT with a scintillating performance late into the night.

For the second year running, ANOT was extended into an all-night experience. Shoving, pushing, and ticketing frustrations faded as the evening progressed, with the earlier chaos unable to overshadow the event itself