In a moving celebration of faith, music, and legacy, gospel icons Charles and Olivia Charamba have marked a remarkable milestone — 30 years in gospel music ministry— with the launch of a triple album project titled “Thirty Years, Thirty Songs, Three Albums.”
The launch event, held at the Harare International Conference Centre, drew a packed audience comprising music lovers, church leaders, artists, and long-time followers of the Charambas’ ministry. It was not just a concert; it was a spiritual encounter — a musical reflection of a journey that has touched millions across Zimbabwe and beyond.
The couple released the first two albums in the trilogy — Farai Nevanofara (Rejoice with those who rejoice) and Chemai Nevanochema (Weep with those who weep) — during the event. The third album is expected to follow soon, rounding off what has been described as one of the most ambitious and heartfelt gospel projects in recent years.
“We didn’t want this to be just an anniversary — we wanted it to be ministry,” said Pastor Charles Charamba. “These 30 songs are a reflection of where we’ve been, what we’ve seen, and the God we’ve walked with. Each one carries a memory, a moment, or a message we’ve lived.”
The theme of the albums reflects the highs and lows of both life and ministry. Farai Nevanofara offers celebratory, uplifting tracks that inspire praise and gratitude, while Chemai Nevanochema provides a softer, reflective tone — offering comfort and encouragement to those going through trials.
“This is not just our story — it’s a shared journey with our supporters,” added Mai Olivia Charamba. “We’ve cried with them, celebrated with them, and worshipped together. It felt right to let them help shape this moment.”
The song selection was a collaborative effort. Leading up to the launch, fans were invited to vote for their favourite Charamba tracks through social media — turning the project into a true community expression. On the night, classics like “Machira Chete,”“Buruka,” and “Handidzokere Shure” ignited powerful moments of praise and nostalgia.
But despite the spectacle, the Charambas made it clear their foundation remains firmly rooted in ministry rather than fame.
“When we started in the 90s, gospel music wasn’t seen as commercially viable,” Charles recalled. “We didn’t do this to be popular. We obeyed a call — and three decades later, that call still burns.”
Throughout the years, the Charambas have maintained a strong message of spiritual depth, rejecting the temptation to follow trends in favour of consistent, scripture-based content.
“We are not driven by what’s trending,” Olivia emphasized. “We are driven by what God puts in our hearts. That’s how we’ve stayed true to our purpose.”
Their influence extends beyond music. The couple has mentored several upcoming gospel artists and remain active in teaching, producing, and encouraging the next generation. Their music ministry, supported by Fishers of Men Studios, continues to lead not only in Zimbabwe but across the region.
“It’s not enough to be heard — you must build,”Charles said. “You must be able to hand over the baton and ensure that gospel music remains spiritually grounded for generations to come.”
As they await the release of the third album in the trilogy, the Charambas show no signs of slowing down. They continue to innovate, inspire, and serve — evidence that ministry does not retire when the music stops.
Thirty years on, Charles and Olivia Charamba are not just reflecting on the past — they are still shaping the future of Zimbabwean gospel music.
