Zambia’s music scene gathered in Lusaka to pay tribute to beloved gospel singer Matthew Ngosa, who passed away at the age of 46. The poignant concert, held at the Praise Christian Centre a day before Ngosa’s burial, saw an outpouring of support from fans, family, and government officials.
Ngosa’s funeral service drew a packed audience, who joined in singing his cherished hits. The emotional event highlighted the widespread admiration for Ngosa’s music, which resonated across Zambia’s churches and nightclubs alike. His songs, including the gospel anthems “Ukulolela” and “Ndakunkula,” have been influential in both spiritual and secular circles throughout his two-decade career.
The concert was led by Ngosa’s older brother, Boyd Ngosa, known in the music world as BJ, who shared a deep connection with the late singer. Matthew’s musical journey began with BJ and their younger brother Hezron during their high school years, where they performed a cappella. The brothers’ passion for music led them to form the duo The Ezma Brothers and later join The Christ Ambassador Choir, where Matthew honed his craft.
In 2004, Ngosa’s debut album, *Umutima Wandi* (“My Heart”), made a significant impact, topping music charts and establishing him as a prominent figure in Zambian gospel music. Despite the challenges posed by piracy, which often undermines musicians’ earnings, Ngosa managed to sustain a decent career and touch many lives through his music.
Ngosa’s health declined in January when he was diagnosed with liver cancer. He passed away just days before he was scheduled to return to India for a follow-up check-up. His passing has left a profound impact on his family and fans.
Hezron Ngosa described his brother as a man of humor and faith, noting that Matthew’s generosity and strength were evident even in his final days. Gospel musician Kings Mumbi remembered Ngosa as a mentor and a significant influence on his own music career. Mumbi praised Ngosa’s dedication to his ministry, recounting how Matthew would sing without concern for payment, driven by his desire to spread the word of God.
The music industry in Zambia, despite being hampered by piracy, has seen a strong preference among Christians for purchasing original albums to support gospel music. Some view buying pirated music as a form of theft, reflecting the community’s commitment to nurturing and preserving the integrity of their musical heritage.
Televangelist and former Vice-President Nevers Mumba expressed his grief on Facebook, reflecting the deep sorrow felt across Zambia. “Your untimely death has crushed me, and broken the hearts of believers and shocked an entire nation,” Mumba wrote. “My only consolation is that I know you will announce your arrival in heaven from Zambia in style.”
President Hakainde Hichilema and former President Edgar Lungu both offered their condolences, underscoring the national significance of Ngosa’s legacy. BJ Ngosa also highlighted the crucial role their mother, Samaria Maswela, played in their musical upbringing. Maswela, who introduced them to church music, joined BJ and other family members on stage at the concert to perform Matthew’s iconic song, *Umutima Wandi*, honoring his memory and celebrating his contributions to Zambian music.
In other news – Trucker crashes into house, injuring two residents
In the early hours of Sunday morning, a truck driver is believed to have fled the scene after losing control of his vehicle and crashing into a house in Kilner Park, Tshwane. The incident, which occurred shortly before 4 a.m. on the N1 southbound, resulted in minor injuries to two occupants of the house.
According to Tshwane emergency spokesperson Lindsay Zwelithini Mnguni, the driver was transporting cold drinks when he lost control of the truck, leading to the collision. Read More
