Vezembouwa Ndjipangura Tumuna, popularly known as Dr Zion Prince, has nurtured a deep passion for gospel music since he began performing in choirs at the age of eight in Swakopmund.

The artist (26), who grew up in Omaruru, reflects on the difficulties he encountered while trying to share his music, despite having content ready for distribution.

“Financial hurdles prevented me from officially releasing my album at the time. In December 2016, I burnt 50 copies onto blank CDs and took them to Windhoek, hoping to kickstart my music journey in 2017,” he shared.

Tumuna remarked that during his initial days in Windhoek, feeling lost and unfamiliar with anyone, he contemplated on discarding the CDs he had brought.

“However, a supportive woman, named Topii Nderura, listened to my songs. She recognised their potential, and urged me not to lose hope. Instead, she encouraged me to sell the CDs for N$50 each, assuring me that people would appreciate my music. I followed her advice — that moment reignited my hope,” he recalled. In 2018, Tumuna became part of a gospel choir called Otjimbumba tjo vaKriste (Group of Christians Choir). 

With them, he composed a song titled ‘Muno Kaimo’, meaning ‘The road to heaven is not in this world’. The song resonated with many and quickly gained popularity, especially in the Otjiherero-speaking community.

As he progressed on his journey, Tumuna sought sponsors to help produce his second album.  He was eventually supported by a kind individual, who believed in his vision, leading to the release of the album Zuvira Tate (‘Hear Me, Father’) in 2019. “Later that same year, I recorded my third album, Ovita Ovinene (‘The War is Big’). This project was both powerful and personal. I also participated in the Visible Talent Show, where I was honoured to be in the Top 10. The judges included prominent figures like Tate Buti, making it a humbling opportunity,” he stated.

In 2020, Tumuna released his fourth album, Mbino Murise (‘I Have a Shepherd’), which reflected his heartfelt spiritual journey.

“I also joined another competition called Star Something, where Lady May Africa was among the judges. While I didn’t reach the finals, the experience was incredibly educational, and motivated me to continue striving with renewed faith and determination,” the composer shared.

He believes that gospel and choral singing is an undervalued art form, deserving of more recognition, and hopes for increased investment to promote it.

In 2024, Tumuna released his fifth and most recent album in collaboration with DJ Stephens Ndjavera, titled ‘Ami Meimburire Ove’ (‘I’m going to sing for You’). 

He described the album as a celebration of his experiences – a tribute to those who supported him, and to the One who blessed him with a voice. Tumuna conveyed that his journey in the music industry has been shaped by faith, perseverance and passion — and that this story is just beginning.

“I want to honour and thank God for my 12-year journey of faith and music in the industry. Join me on 24 May at St Barnabas Primary School hall in Windhoek to commemorate this significant milestone. Everyone is welcome, especially gospel music enthusiasts,” he warmly invited. –psiririka@nepc.com.na