Zimbabwean gospel music icon Olivia Charamba, affectionately known as Mai Charamba, has declared that retirement is not on her radar despite celebrating three decades in the music industry. Speaking in an interview with Nehanda Radio, the award-winning singer said she still feels energetic and inspired to continue ministering through song, describing herself as “too young to become a retiree.”
For 30 years, Mai Charamba and her husband, Pastor Charles Charamba, have been a dominant force in Zimbabwe’s gospel music scene. From the days of cassette tapes and compact discs to today’s digital era of streaming and social media, the couple has maintained a remarkable consistency in their message of faith and hope. Their music — characterised by deep biblical teachings and soulful harmonies — has not only shaped Zimbabwe’s gospel landscape but also inspired generations of believers at home and abroad.
As part of their 30-year milestone, Mai Charamba recently released a new album titled Olive Branch, her third offering this year. The album forms part of the Thirty Years Trinity Songs project, a celebration of three decades of ministry through music. The project highlights both her solo work and collaborative efforts with Pastor Charamba, affectionately known by fans as “Baba Charamba.”
Reflecting on her long journey, Mai Charamba said the secret to her enduring success lies in her unwavering focus on her divine calling. “We have learnt to focus on our calling and not be swayed by negative situations and criticism,” she said. “That is what has kept us grounded and consistent all these years.”
She explained that gospel music, unlike other genres, requires spiritual maturity and a deep sense of purpose. For her, music is not just entertainment — it is a ministry. “I have learnt that being true to your calling brings peace and longevity. Once you know your purpose, you stop competing or comparing yourself with others. Our mission has always been to spread the message of Jesus Christ, not to chase fame or trends,” she added.
Mai Charamba also addressed speculation that she might be considering slowing down after three decades in the spotlight. She was quick to dismiss the idea, insisting that she has no plans to stop singing anytime soon. “As long as the Lord permits and grants life, we will continue in our music ministry,” she said confidently. “I may not talk of retiring from singing; I am too young to be a retiree. Considering the outcry I have been receiving from my fans, retiring definitely becomes a crime.
Mai Charamba at 30 Years in Music: “I’m Too Young to Retire”
Her passion, she said, is continually renewed by the impact her music has on listeners. She believes that true gospel music transcends time, trends, and technology. “Our music is timeless; it will always have impact regardless of circumstances,” she noted. “The message is timeless and never changes because we sing the word of God as it is.”
The Charambas’ longevity in the music industry has been a subject of admiration and study. While many artists have come and gone, their ministry has stood the test of time. Mai Charamba attributes this durability to originality and a deep commitment to artistic excellence. “Originality is almost everything in music,” she explained. “I have witnessed people who put more energy and focus on the marketing side of their artworks while making very little effort on the art product they want to put in the market. The result is that hype is created, but the product would be void of longevity.”
She added that the couple’s approach to music has always prioritised spiritual and lyrical integrity over commercial success. “For us, the message comes first. We spend more time in prayer, reflection, and songwriting than we do chasing trends. That’s why people still connect with our songs from the 1990s and early 2000s. The message remains relevant,” she said.
Mai Charamba’s voice and style have become synonymous with authentic Zimbabwean gospel music. Her songs such as Rute, Musarova Ngoma, and Ndinokutendai Ishe continue to resonate across generations, while her humility and devotion have earned her respect beyond the church community.
As she celebrates this milestone, Mai Charamba remains focused on the future. She hinted that more projects are in the pipeline, including mentoring younger artists and expanding her family’s musical legacy. “It’s been a fulfilling journey, but it’s not the end. We’re still working on new material and looking forward to exploring more ways to use music as a tool for ministry,” she revealed.
Thirty years later, Mai Charamba’s message remains as powerful as ever — one of faith, endurance, and purpose. Her refusal to retire is not simply about age, but about continuing to serve through her gift. “Music is not just a career,” she said with a smile. “It is a calling, and as long as God gives me breath, I will keep singing.”
Source- Nehandaradio
