The Outcry Experience became a deeply moving and unforgettable moment when its host, Minister Michael Mahendere, paused the flow of worship to publicly honour the woman who raised him his mother.

What started as an intense night of praise unexpectedly transformed into a heartfelt personal tribute that moved many in the audience to tears.

Noticing his mother seated among the congregation, Mahendere abruptly stopped the programme and addressed her emotionally. Fighting back tears, he asked for her to be brought to the front, expressing the deep bond and respect he has always held for her.

As ushers guided his mother forward, the atmosphere in the venue grew quiet and reverent.

Mahendere went on to reflect on the values of honour, obedience, and gratitude, emphasising that his calling and ministry were built on the foundation of his mother’s prayers.

“All that I am today is because of my mother’s prayers,” he shared.

The emotional highlight of the night came when Mahendere revealed that he was gifting his mother a car, a gesture that drew an overwhelming response from the crowd.

The moment served as a powerful reminder that beyond the music and the ministry, the Outcry Experience was a living message demonstrating that true worship begins with honouring one’s parents.

Zimbabwe’s Miss International First Runner-Up and Miss International Africa 2025, Yollanda Elizabeth Chimbarami, received a distinguished homecoming reception at a formal dinner held on December 13, 2025, at Tong Fu Restaurant in Belgravia, Harare.

The invitation-only event drew a cross-section of national leadership, including government officials, pageantry stakeholders, religious leaders, educators, corporate executives, family members and the media, in recognition of a milestone achievement that has placed Zimbabwe firmly on the global beauty and cultural diplomacy map.

Delivering the keynote address, Director Precious Chifamba read remarks on behalf of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland Central, Honourable Christopher Magomo. The address described Chimbarami’s international success as a landmark moment for the country, noting that her rise from Guruve District to the world stage reflects the objectives of devolution and the importance of nurturing talent at community level.

The minister praised Chimbarami for pairing achievement with social impact, highlighting her previous outreach initiatives, including the donation of learning materials to primary schools in Mashonaland Central. He said her work aligns with national priorities on youth and women empowerment, as well as cultural diplomacy, under the National Development Strategy One championed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Chimbarami arrived at the ceremony alongside her spiritual father, Apostle B Java, her mother and other dignitaries. Apostle Java commended her mother for unwavering support, revealing that she observed a 21-day fast during her daughter’s pageant preparations. Several local and regional church leaders attended the dinner, which Apostle Java described as a victory anchored in faith and values.

Paying tribute, Makseth International School Director and Principal Mrs Bako reflected on Chimbarami’s transformation from a focused student seeking mentorship into a disciplined international ambassador. She applauded her dedication to education, mentorship and faith, saying her crown symbolises integrity, perseverance and purpose.

Miss Zimbabwe Trust representative Barney Mpariwa noted that Chimbarami is the first Zimbabwean to secure a first runner-up position at a major international pageant. He attributed her success to long-term preparation and discipline, urging young Zimbabweans to draw motivation from her journey.

Corporate backing featured prominently at the event, with Croco Motors officially unveiling Chimbarami as its 2026 brand ambassador. Additional donations from corporate partners and individuals were also announced in support of her advocacy work, mentorship programmes and upcoming initiatives.

The homecoming dinner concluded with renewed calls for sustained investment in youth development, as Yollanda Chimbarami was formally celebrated as a national symbol of excellence and an inspiration to emerging generations.

Veteran musician Nicholas Zakaria, the renowned frontman of the Khiama Boys, died, his family confirmed in a statement released in Zimbabwe. Details about the cause of death have not yet been disclosed.

Zakaria, affectionately known as Madzibaba and celebrated in music circles as the “Senior Lecturer,” was one of the most influential figures in the development of sungura music. Over the decades, he became a household name, nurturing and mentoring artists such as Alick Macheso, who went on to become stars in their own right. His contribution to the industry earned him widespread respect and a loyal following across generations.

Announcing his death, the Zakaria family expressed deep sadness at the loss of a man they described as talented, humble, and dedicated to his craft.

“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Nicholas Zakaria,” the family said. “He shared his gift with the nation and beyond, leaving a legacy built on music, mentorship, and passion. His impact was felt not only through his voice and artistry, but also through the many musicians he guided throughout his career.”

Zakaria’s music career spanned several decades, during which he produced hit songs, led one of Zimbabwe’s most enduring bands, and became a symbol of perseverance in the arts sector. Fans across the country have begun sending messages of condolence, celebrating him as a cultural icon whose influence shaped the sound of modern sungura.

Further details regarding his memorial service and funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.