Category: Entertainment

In December 2024, Chameleone was rushed to Nakasero Hospital in Kampala after experiencing excruciating abdominal pain. His condition quickly escalated, prompting doctors to place him under intensive care for 11 days.

Medical experts advised that he needed specialized treatment abroad to prevent further complications.
Taking this advice seriously, Chameleone was discharged on December 23, 2024, and immediately made arrangements to fly to the United States.

His medical evacuation was spearheaded by Ugandan socialite and businesswoman Juliet Zawedde, who covered his medical and travel expenses.

Upon arrival in the U.S., he was admitted to Allina Health Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, where he has been receiving specialized care ever since. His brother and fellow musician, Weasel Manizo, has been by his side throughout the ordeal.

With just hours left before the operation, fans across the globe are sending their prayers and support. In a January 3, 2025, interview with NTV’s The Beat, Chameleone reassured his supporters that he remains optimistic about his recovery.

“This has been a tough journey, but I’m staying strong. I miss my fans, and I promise to come back stronger than ever,” he stated.

Despite his health struggles, the legendary singer has been plotting his comeback, using his recovery time to reflect on his career and plan new projects.

As the countdown to surgery begins, Uganda, and the entire African music scene waits anxiously, hopeful that the Mama Mia hitmaker will emerge from this battle victorious. Ugandans online wished a quick recovery to talented singer after Reports of him being hospitalized again emerged.

Joseph Mayanja alias Jose Chameleon is a famous Ugandan singer known for his versatile music style that includes Reggae, Dancehall and Afro beats. He has won numerous awards throughout his career including the prestigious MTV Africa Music Award.

The WILSa 2025 is a conference that brings together young women and girls to celebrate all women who have made outstanding contributions in their respective fields.

At the announcement of Boukuru’s appointment as Brand Ambassador for WILSa 2025, Iris Irumva, the CEO of Lead Access, a leadership firm that empowers leaders at all levels, revealed that they started working with Boukuru in December 2024 to prepare a special partnership aimed at amplifying the voices of women everywhere.

“Since December 2023, we’ve been hard at work with our very own Boukuru, crafting an extraordinary collaboration that amplifies the voices of women everywhere,” she said.

“This partnership is more than a project. It’s a call to action, a celebration of talent, and the spark for a year-long journey of empowerment and mentorship.,” she added.

Irumva further explained that in 2025, they will go beyond merely celebrating women’s and girls’ achievements to spreading a message that would energize and empower women across all sectors, reinforcing women’s leadership at every level.

“This year, we wanted to create something that doesn’t just celebrate women’s leadership but amplifies it in a way that reaches beyond words. That’s why we’ve collaborated with Boukuru, whose song “We Are Here- Turi Hano” is more than music. It’s a statement,” she emphasized.

She highlighted that the song symbolizes the need for the voices of women and girls to be heard at the workplace, in decision-making organiations, and in all important spaces. “It’s a call to all of us to support and invest in the leadership of women and girls,” she added.

Shortly after, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed with Boukuru as the official Brand Ambassador for WILSa 2025.

Boukuru expressed her excitement about the collaboration with WILSa, saying that the song “Turi Hano” was meant to highlight the importance of women in everyday life.

“When I worked on ‘Turi Hano,’ Irumva approached me, asking if we could create a powerful song that speaks to the value of women in leadership or wherever they may be. Wherever a woman is, she deserves respect. Whether at home, at work or anywhere else. So, I thought about creating a song that would convey this message,” she said.

She went on to share that the song signifies that even if women are not seen in certain places, they are present in other ways. She also pointed out that this song is not just for WILSa’s awards or conferences but is an anthem for every woman.

Boukuru mentioned that she chose to record the song in Kinyarwanda as it was specifically created for the Rwandan audience.

The WILSa 2025 awards ceremony will be preceded by the various Pre-Summit Workshops happening on 6th & 7th March, focusing on women in Agriculture, Technology, Entrepreneurship and the Arts.

On March 20, 2025, a large-scale conference will bring together women and girls from various sectors, followed by a day of intergenerational discussions and debates. The awards ceremony to honor the most outstanding women will take place on March 21, 2025.

The awards will recognize individuals in 15 categories, with three finalist nominees competing to win their category title, driven by public votes and jury’s input. Nominations for these awards opened on February 10, 2025, and will close on February 17. To nominate someone, visit the link http://wilsafrica.com/, select the category and fill out the details.

Irumva, who played a key role in Boukuru’s appointment as Brand Ambassador for WILSa 2025, revealed that this year, they plan to collaborate with more women and girls than ever before.

In 2024, the summit brought together 200 experienced women from various sectors, but this year, they aim to reach 1,000 women in Kigali and beyond.

She also disclosed that following the summit, a year-long mentorship program will be launched to empower women and girls to excel in every aspect of life. This program is scheduled to conclude in March 2026, paving the way for the next edition of WILSa.

The award categories will include; Entrepreneurship, Sports, Education, Arts & Culture, Advocate for Gender Equality, Science Innovation, Technology, Finance, Social Impact, Health & Wellness, Queen of Green (Environmentalist), Agriculture, Hospitality, Media & Communication and Lifetime Achievements.

The film will be shown in the Forum section of the festival, which is scheduled to run from February 13 to 23, 2025.

Sharangabo told IGIHE that he and a team of about 10 who worked on the film will arrive in Germany on February 12, 2025, a day before the screening.

He expressed his pride in having his film showcased at Berlinale, marking its official premiere and giving film enthusiasts the opportunity to watch it in theatres afterwards.

“I am very happy, and what I can tell people is that this will be the film’s first public screening. After this, it will start being shown in different places. It’s a significant step for Rwandan cinema and a result of the daily efforts and struggles we go through. I’m grateful and appreciate everyone who contributed to making this project successful,” he said.

Minimals in a Titanic World is Sharangabo’s first feature film, centred around Anita, a dancer aspiring to turn her passion into a professional career.

After being imprisoned due to misconduct, Anita returns to a life of performing music and dancing in a nightclub. However, she receives heartbreaking news about the death of her lover, Serge.

As her friends support her through grief, Anita meets Shema, Serge’s close friend, and the two form a bond that helps her find solace and refocus on building her life as a songwriter.

Set in contemporary Kigali, the film explores themes of ambition, love, loss, and the struggle of young people trying to achieve their dreams while navigating life’s uncertainties.

The film features actors Aline Amike, Niyigena “Rwasibo Joe” Jean Pierre, Ganza Moise, Nasser Makala, and Alice Amike.

Key contributors to the film include Samuel Ishimwe Karemangingo and Nasser Naizi, who handled cinematography, while Kivu Ruhorahoza was responsible for editing. The film’s music was composed by Amin Goudarzi, with Amadou Massaer Ndiaye overseeing sound design. Carine Umunyana led the production design, shaping the film’s visual aesthetic. The production team was led by Sharangabo, alongside Samuel Ishimwe Karemangingo, Remy Ryumugabe, Didacienne Nibagwire, Alexander Wadouh, Roxana Richters, and Augustine Moukodi.

The film was co-produced by Imitana Productions and Iyugi Productions, both based in Kigali, along with Chromosom Film in Berlin and Zili Studios in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Sharangabo, the film’s creator, is also the organizer of the Kigali CineJunction Festival, which has been held twice in Rwanda since its launch in 2023.

The Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), established in 1951 and held in February since 1978, is widely considered one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals, alongside Cannes and Venice.

In addition to Berlinale, Minimals in a Titanic World is also competing in the feature film category at the Festival Panafricain du cinéma et de la télévision de Ouagadougou (FESPACO), which will take place in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, from February 22 to March 1, 2025, for its 29th edition.

FESPACO is the most prestigious film festival in Africa and has been hosted in Ouagadougou every two years since 1972.

In a statement, the management of the premier event-hosting facility apologized to fans for the inconvenience and announced that refunds are available upon request for those who had booked their spots.

“We understand your excitement for this event, and we share in your disappointment. Refunds are available upon request. For inquiries, please contact Centrika via WhatsApp at +250 787 272 036,” the management stated.

Tems was scheduled to thrill fans in Kigali as part of her famed Born in the Wild world tour, which includes stops in major African cities such as Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Accra, and Addis Ababa.

However, the celebrated Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer, born Temilade Openiyi, announced the cancellation of her Kigali event on January 30, citing the ongoing conflict in the neighbouring eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Tems, known for chart-topping hits such as Free Mind and Essence, has amassed a massive global following.

The 29-year-old won her first Grammy at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in 2023 in the category of Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contribution to Future’s song Wait For U, which also featured Drake.

Her performance in Kigali had been anticipated as a night of electrifying music, expected to draw fans from across the region and beyond, further positioning Kigali as a rising entertainment hub in Africa.

The celebrated Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer, born Temilade Openiyi, will perform at the iconic BK Arena on March 22, 2025. Rwanda will be a key stop on her global tour, which includes several major African cities, including Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Accra, and Addis Ababa.

The Kigali concert represents more than just an evening of unforgettable music. It reflects Rwanda’s growing reputation as a destination for world-class entertainment, thanks to strategic collaborations like the partnership between BK Group and QA Venue Solutions Rwanda.

The partnership, which secured the naming rights for BK Arena in 2022, has transformed the venue into a hub for international stars and high-profile events.

John Ntigengwa, Country Director at QA Venue Solutions Rwanda, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming concert and its impact on Rwanda’s growing entertainment scene.

“Hosting an artist of Tems’ calibre alongside other major African cities highlights Rwanda’s strides in establishing itself as a destination for top-tier events. The BK Arena is proud to play a key role in this journey, leveraging partnerships to bring unforgettable experiences to fans,” he said.

Tems, known for chart-topping hits such as “Free Mind” and “Essence”, has garnered a massive global following.

The 29-year-old won her first Grammy at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards in 2023. She won in the category of Best Melodic Rap Performance for her contribution to Future’s song “Wait For U,” which also featured Drake.

Her performance in Kigali promises a night of electrifying music that will draw fans from across the region and beyond, further positioning Kigali as a rising entertainment capital in Africa.

Tickets for the event are now available on www.ticqet.rw, with exclusive discounts for BK Card holders. Early buyers can enjoy a 30% discount until February 21, while a 20% discount is available until March 17. After this period, tickets will be sold at full price.

Music lovers are encouraged to secure their tickets early to witness what promises to be a historic performance at the BK Arena.

In a candid interview on CNN’s ‘African Voices Changemakers’, the Beninese-born actor shared that he continues to find himself underpaid even after over two decades in the industry and being featured in multiple blockbuster films.

“I’m still struggling to make a living,” Hounsou confessed. “I’ve been in this business making films now for over two decades with two Oscar nominations, been in many blockbuster films, and yet, I’m still struggling financially. I’m definitely underpaid.”

Reflecting on his career, which includes standout roles in Ridley Scott’s ‘Gladiator’, Steven Spielberg’s ‘Amistad’, ‘Blood Diamond’, and ‘In America’, Hounsou expressed his frustration with the financial compensation he receives despite his critical acclaim.

His performances in ‘In America’ and ‘Blood Diamond’ earned him Academy Award nominations, yet he claimed that financial recognition hasn’t followed.

Hounsou also addressed a painful memory from his ‘Amistad’ breakthrough in 1997, where he portrayed Cinqué, the leader of a slave revolt. He alleged that his lack of an Oscar nomination at the time was influenced by racism and xenophobia.

“I was nominated for the Golden Globe, but they ignored me for the Oscars, talking about the fact that they thought that I had just came off the boat and off the streets,” he said.

“Even though I successfully did that [film], they just didn’t feel like I was an actor to whom they should pay any respect. This conceptual idea of diversity still has a long way to go. Systemic racism don’t change like that anytime soon.”

Hounsou’s journey to stardom began when he immigrated to Lyon, France, at age 12, after growing up in Cotonou, Benin. Homeless and struggling after dropping out of school, he was discovered by a photographer who introduced him to fashion designer Thierry Mugler.

Hounsou then pursued modeling, becoming a prominent figure in the Paris fashion scene. His career later transitioned to acting with notable roles in ‘Without You I’m Nothing’ (1990) and ‘Stargate’ (1994).

This is not the first time Hounsou has spoken about his financial struggles despite his success in other films like ‘A Quiet Place: Day One,’ ‘Gran Turismo,’ and ‘Shazam! Fury of the Gods.’

In a 2023 interview with ‘The Guardian’, he stated, “I’m still struggling to try to make a dollar! I’ve come up in the business with some people who are absolutely well off and have very little of my accolades. So I feel cheated, tremendously cheated, in terms of finances and in terms of the workload as well.”

Hounsou opened up about difficult meetings with studio executives, saying: “I’ve gone to studios for meetings and they’re like: ‘Wow, we felt like you just got off the boat and then went back [after Amistad]. We didn’t know you were here as a true actor.’ When you hear things like that, you can see that some people’s vision of you, or what you represent, is very limiting. But it is what it is. It’s up to me to redeem that.”

Looking ahead, Hounsou has a slate of upcoming thrillers, including the horror film ‘The Monster’ with director Darren Lynn Bousman, a shark movie titled ‘Beneath the Storm’ opposite Phoebe Dynevor, and a claustrophobic thriller called ‘The Zealot’ alongside Kodi Smit-McPhee.

The concert, dubbed “The New Year Groove & Album Launch”, ushered Rwandans into the new year while showcasing The Ben’s third album, “Plenty Love”.

The Ben, ultimately achieved his dream of organizing a concert he had envisioned but couldn’t carry out in 2009 with a high attendance from his fans, an occasion marked with emotions and sheds of tears.

The performance was organized in two segments with the first part featuring various artists he had collaborated with on songs, including Bushali, Tom Close, K8 Kavuyo, Otile Brown, Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, Element Eleéeh, and others.

Green P, The Ben’s sibling, joined the stage along with P-Fla and Fireman, his former Tuff Gang groupmates, to perform the song “Kwicuma,” honoring Jay Polly, a member of their group who passed away in 2021.

Before The Ben took to the stage in his distinctive outfit, several upcoming artists were given the chance to showcase their talents. These included J-Sha, Phil Emon, Shemi, Yampano, and children from the Sherrie Silver Foundation. Attendees of the concert left mesmerized and satisfied with the music and performances.

It was a memorable experience, highlighted by standout performances and emotional moments. It featured a mix of The Ben’s timeless hits and collaborations with various artists. Songs like “Amaso Ku Maso,” “Rahira,” and “Amahirwe Ya Nyuma” took fans back to the early days of his career.

Special performances by artists like Kivumbi King, Kevin Kade, and Element Eleéeh added excitement, with Kevin’s dance moves particularly captivating the audience.

A heartfelt moment came when The Ben broke into tears while thanking his mother and supporters, expressing gratitude for their role in his success. This vulnerability resonated deeply with the audience, showcasing his genuine connection with his fans.

Cultural pride was evident when “Naremeye” was performed alongside the traditional Itorero Inyamibwa dancers, blending Kinyarwanda dance with The Ben’s artistry.

The spiritual tone of the concert emerged during “Ndaje,” where he reflected on his gratitude for life, hinting at a future focus on faith-inspired music.

Throughout the evening, notable guests like Otile Brown and Tom Close shared the stage, while Tuff Gang members paid tribute to the late Jay Polly with an emotional performance of “Kwicuma.” The night also featured crowd favorites like “True Love,” performed with a calm and reflective energy.

The Ben’s ability to blend nostalgia, culture, and spirituality made the concert unforgettable, solidifying his place as a celebrated icon in Rwandan music.

Towards midnight, The Ben and Tom Close concluded the event with the last song, “Thank You,” a collabo between the two. They later sang a short rendition of “Genda Rwanda Uri Nziza” to express their gratitude to the country’s leadership.

The night was filled with overwhelming emotion. The Ben, deeply moved by the significance of the moment, couldn’t hold back his tears, and the audience shared in his heartfelt moment, witnessing the raw emotions of a dream realized.

The management of Kozo Restaurant confirmed Tyler ICU’s performance on New Year’s Eve in a promotional poster, promising a night filled with dazzling acts and surprises.

“Join us for an extraordinary New Year’s Eve at Kozo. An unforgettable night of live performance, dazzling acts, and electrifying vibes,” the restaurant announced.

Tyler ICU, whose real name is Austin Khulani Baloyi, has become a key figure in the Amapiano genre. He is known for his skilful music production and energetic performances.

He is celebrated for his hit tracks, such as “Mnike,” which was certified platinum in South Africa, and “Bella Ciao,” a collaboration with Nicole Elocin, DJ Maphorisa, and Kabza De Small.

Tyler ICU’s hit “Banyana” with DJ Maphorisa also earned double platinum status. The songs have propelled him into the spotlight, making him one of the most sought-after DJs in the Amapiano scene.

The upcoming performance in Kigali follows Tyler ICU’s successful debut in the city in August 2023, when he performed at Atelier Du Vin, alongside popular Rwandan artists.

The event was a massive hit, drawing a lively crowd, predominantly young fans, who enjoyed the midnight performance of Amapiano music. His show was a major highlight of the night, culminating in the early hours of the morning.

The event, which precedes the celebration of Christmas, was graced by prominent figures, including First Lady Jeannette Kagame.

The concert was also attended by members of the Catholic church, friends of the Kigali Choir from various denominations, and senior leaders in Rwanda.

The 11th edition of the concert captivated the audience with beautiful renditions of songs such as “Abijuru Baririmba,” “Nduwawe,” and “Ndakuramutsa Mubyeyi,” keeping many on their feet.

Other worship songs, including “Tambira Jehovah,” “Atawale,” and “Wabanye Natwe,” energized the audience, which joined the Kigali Choir in singing.

The male members of the choir, led by the skilled saxophonist Cedric Mineur, delighted the crowd with their unique voices and excellent music.

Children in the choir also had their moment, performing popular children’s songs such as “Lundi Matin,” “Frère Jacques,” and “Bye Bye Ngona.”

Jean Claude Hodari, President of the choir, thanked the attendees and emphasized the concert’s role in uniting people. He promised an even better event in 2025.

“I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Before I conclude, I ask you to join us again next year. We’ve held this concert for 11 years and this is our 12th. It brings joy and unites families. This concert connects believers in Christ,” he remarked.

The choir president also expressed gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for providing BK Arena for the annual outreach event.

Cardinal Antoine Kambanda, Catholic Archbishop of Kigali and President of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda, thanked First Lady Jeannette Kagame for attending and extended Christmas and New Year wishes to her and her family, including President Paul Kagame.

“This concert has become a tradition to help people celebrate Christmas and honour the Virgin Mary. It is valuable to be together. We thank the performers for their dedication,” Cardinal Kambanda stated.

The Cardinal reiterated the significance of the choir’s collaboration, with members harmonizing their diverse voices as a symbol of unity.

Established in 1966, Chorale de Kigali has been organizing annual Christmas Carols events since 2013. Over the years, this concert has grown into a signature pre-Christmas celebration, attracting a large audience from Kigali and beyond.

As one of Rwanda’s oldest Catholic choirs, Chorale de Kigali began with a group of 20 individuals, many of whom were music graduates from seminary schools across the country during that period.

The concert concluded with a prayer led by Cardinal Kambanda, asking for peace and joy for all Rwandans as they celebrate the Christmas and New Year holidays.