The annual City of Johannesburg Indigenous Gospel Festival kicked off its two-day celebration at the Soweto Theatre on Saturday, 15 February 2025. Now in its eighth year, the festival brought together indigenous gospel choirs from across the city to showcase their talent and celebrate the spirit of worship through song and dance.
This year’s event saw increased participation, vibrant performances, and a strong youth presence, highlighting the festival’s role in nation-building and cultural preservation. The University of Johannesburg choir also joined, showcasing the involvement of young people in this vital part of South Africa’s heritage and faith traditions.
Hosted by the City of Joburg’s Community Development and Arts and Culture departments, the festival began with a series of captivating performances.
Cllr Tebogo Nkokou, MMC for Community Development, paid tribute to the genre and reaffirmed the City’s commitment to the festival. “Today, we do more than gather for entertainment; we affirm our deep cultural and spiritual identity as Africans. This festival celebrates the sounds that have carried our people through struggles and inspired victories.”
He emphasised the importance of indigenous gospel music as a “living archive” of joy, healing, defiance, and triumph. “This festival was created to amplify, protect, and elevate our indigenous gospel traditions. It unites generations, cultures, and faith communities, symbolising unity and Ubuntu,” he added.
Vuyisile Mshudulu, Director of Arts, Culture, and Heritage, explained that the festival was born out of a need to recognise a genre often overlooked by mainstream media. “Despite its significance, indigenous gospel music rarely receives the attention it deserves. This festival ensures its preservation and growth,” he said.
Linda Phakathi, Secretary General of the Inhlanhla yeZikhova eZimnqini church in Pimville, Soweto, shared how the festival has boosted their choir’s profile and drawn more youth to the church. “Music attracts young people to the church, and this festival has put us on the map. We look forward to future partnerships,” he said.
Kedibone Phele, a member of the Damaseka Choir from Sebokeng, expressed her joy at attending the festival. “I’ve been part of this event since it began, and it’s a highlight of my life. It’s wonderful to see young people turning away from drugs and alcohol to embrace gospel music and faith,” she said.
The festival not only celebrates indigenous gospel music but also ensures its legacy for future generations, uniting communities through the power of song and faith.
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso