Avhatendi Matumba (49) is no stranger to the gospel stage. He is an award-winning gospel singer. It didn’t all start with the albums, the applause, and the recognition; he was once just a boy with a voice, singing in school assemblies and church gatherings in the village of Ha-Makuya, where his journey began.

Located in Ga-Nala and raised in Mbuyuni, Avhatendi’s early performances were simple, yet powerful.

“Teachers and people at church quickly noticed something special in my voice and a spiritual energy that moved hearts. I didn’t know I was building a legacy,” Avhatendi said.

The love eventually led him to the studio, where he turned his wishes into reality. In 2009, Avhatendi released his first album, Tendani, a title that translates to ‘Believe.’

It was a significant step, marking the beginning of his career. “That album was my leap of faith, I believed in the message, and I believed it was time,” Avhatendi expressed.

“The song I named my album after was just a reminder to society to believe in the Lord and His Son,” Avhatendi said.

According to Avhatendi, the song emphasised the book of John 14:2. “In the verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples, assuring them that he is going to prepare a place for them in His Father’s house,” he added.

The years that followed witnessed Avhatendi standing firm in the gospel music stage, releasing albums in 2011, 2013, 2017, and 2019. Each project carried its unique lyrics and a message of hope.

Even during the uncertainty of the Covid-19 pandemic, Avhatendi remained focused, releasing singles in 2020 and again in 2023.

“Oleseng didn’t just sing, he ministered. He made me believe that gospel music could heal, uplift, and transform lives. I wanted to do the same,” he said.

With more than a decade of music behind him, Avhatendi shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to write, record, and perform – driven by the same passion that first moved him to sing as a child.

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