Sharing a deeply personal reflection on Instagram on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Vestine revealed the challenges she has faced in her marriage, expressing deep regret over her decision to wed Ouedraogo, whom she accused of destroying her life.
“Today, the life I am living is not the life I chose. I am living in a bad situation, and I didn’t deserve this. I know I made a bad decision in my life, but it’s okay. God allows some things to happen so we can learn. I have learned a lot. No man will ever lie to me again to destroy my life,” she wrote on her Instagram status without going into specifics.
She then hinted at a fresh start and set boundaries for future relationships, saying:
“The next man I choose to be with, I will first get to know him well, know his family, and know everything about him. No one will ever use me again.”
Vestine’s comments come months after a high-profile wedding to Ouédraogo. The couple legally married in a civil ceremony on January 15, 2025, followed by a grand celebration on July 5 2025, at the Intare Conference Arena in Rusororo, Kigali, attended by family, friends, and celebrities.
While the celebrations were lavish, Vestine’s recent message suggests that life behind the scenes has been challenging, and it remains to be seen what her next move will be.
The awards ceremony, held at Kampala Serena Hotel on Saturday, celebrated excellence in African music. The Ben’s hit single “True Love” earned him the prestigious accolade, beating out other major hits including Mbosso’s “Pawa”, Vestine & Dorcas’ “Yebo”, and Karole Kasita’s “Go”.
Meanwhile, Ugandan artist Joshua Baraka dominated the night, sweeping multiple awards including Africa’s Number One, East Africa’s Best Artist, Best Male Artist, and Artist of the Year.
Ugandan singer Ava Peace also made a mark, taking home two awards, including Best Female Artist.
Other performers who lit up the stage included Khalifa Aganaga, MUN G, Happy Kyazze, Augustine Mukisa, Carol Komeza, Serena Bata, and Roden Y Kabako, thrilling the audience with their live performances.
Known for championing classic R&B and throwback hits in a nightlife scene often dominated by Afrobeats and Amapiano, Spin the Block is switching things up this time with a full-day party experience running from 2pm until 2am. Organisers are encouraging table reservations for those looking to enjoy the event’s premium brunch vibe, complete with Kōzo’s signature ambience.
This edition also arrives at the perfect moment for visitors travelling to Kigali for Davido’s concert at BK Arena on December 5, offering them an easy follow-up activity to keep the weekend energy going.
Staying true to its homegrown spirit, the line-up is 100% Rwandan, featuring seasoned Old Skool selectors DJ Infinity, DJ Khizzbeats, and Nicolas Peks, all known for their deep crates and silky smooth R&B blends. The event will be hosted by Rlutta, the artist behind the popular “Umeze Bon” fame, adding her trademark and charm to the stage.
According to the organisers, Spin the Block’s move to Kōzo marks a new chapter, with the venue becoming its official base for all 2026 editions. The shift signals a long-term vision to grow the brand and establish a consistent home for Kigali’s R&B faithful.
With throwbacks, slow jams, brunch plates and sunset vibes lined up, this December edition promises to be the city’s standout feel-good party of the month.
The revelations come amid a heated dispute over allegations of drug use, personal exploitation, and family interference.
In a detailed statement released on Instagram on Sunday, Daniels claimed Nwoko created a false narrative to tarnish her name, portraying her family as enablers while concealing his own actions.
“Fine, I did drugs. So what? Is that even the issue between us? The moment we had a fight, you rushed to the public, shouting ‘drugs, drugs, drugs,’ because you knew it would make a perfect story for the media, something dramatic enough to distract everyone from the real issue!” she wrote.
Daniels accused Nwoko of isolating her from loved ones and controlling her access to communication, claiming he seized her phones for weeks to prevent contact with her family. She further alleged that the businessman would detain her, label her “mentally unstable,” and use medical interventions, including injections meant for bipolar patients, to maintain control.
“You want to find a reason to arrest everyone around me so that I will have no one left beside me, no friend, no support, no safe place to turn to. Then, when I’m completely isolated and broken, I will be forced to come back to you because I will have nowhere else to go,” she said.
She also claimed Nwoko encouraged her drug use for his own sexual pleasure. “You say you want me to go for rehab, but you are the same Ned who always wanted me high because, in your words, I’m ‘sexier’ when I’m high,” Daniels added.
Daniels went further, alleging sexual coercion. “Why don’t you also tell them how you force yourself on me whenever I say no?” she wrote, highlighting the extent of her accusations of control and abuse.
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Daniels, who married Nwoko at just 17 years old, reflected on the sacrifices she made at a young age. She also addressed more personal allegations, referencing private material that she says Nwoko has kept.
“Dearest ex-husband, thanks for breaking the crown you put on my head. No one knew us like we did, and I trusted you with all of me, even with my sextape, which I pray never sees the light of day. Foolish me,” she wrote.
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Daniels also clarified that their union was not legally recognised, stating, “For the record, I would have filed for divorce long ago if there was ever a legal marriage between us. We were never married in any court of law, and no documents were signed. Leave me alone, Ned. Marriage is not by force. Love is not by force. Stop trying to control what no longer belongs to you!”
This statement comes after Nwoko accused Daniels of resisting rehabilitation and claimed he had financially supported her family. He also previously alleged that her drug use was being facilitated by those close to her, including her friends and siblings.
Nwoko has yet to respond to Daniels’ latest allegations, leaving questions about the veracity of the claims and the future of their legal and personal disputes.
The actress shares two sons, Munir and Khalifa, with her estranged husband.
The red carpet sparkled with stunning outfits and flashing cameras as guests posed for photos and shared laughs with the press before heading into the main hall. The evening blended fashion, music, and art, offering a taste of Rwanda’s growing creative energy.
Opening the night, Sherrie Silver said her inspiration for the gala stemmed from a desire to empower young Rwandans with talent.
“I wanted to create a platform where the youth can shine, express themselves, and realise their potential, not just for their own success, but to uplift the country,” she said.
Umutoni Sandrine, Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, applauded Silver’s initiative, describing her as a role model for Africa’s creative industry.
“Sherrie Silver has used her talent to open doors for others and showcase African artistry on the global stage,” she said. “Tonight is proof of what happens when we believe in young people and invest in the arts, not as charity, but as a tool for transformation.”
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to nurturing the creative sector under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, adding that Rwanda continues to place art and innovation at the centre of national progress.
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Adding a sporty twist to the glamorous night, Miss Jolly Mutesi outbid several guests to secure a signed Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) jersey for $1,000 (about Frw 1.4 million). She revealed that she plans to display the prized collectible as a home décor piece. The French football club is a partner of Visit Rwanda, the tourism-focused arm of the Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
The Best Dressed category turned into a stylish showdown featuring Bwiza, Mutesi Jolly, Miss Nishimwe Naomie, Anitha Urayeneza (of Romantic Garden), Olivia The Design, Tanga Designs, Juno Kizigenza, and Ross Kana.
Pop star Bwiza once again stole the spotlight, walking away with the $1,000 Best Dressed Award, marking her second consecutive win after triumphing at last year’s inaugural gala.
The night also carried a touch of philanthropy. The BK Foundation pledged to cover school fees for 100 children supported by the Sherrie Silver Foundation, both in public and private schools.
In the fashion segment, Icyacumi was crowned Best Fashion Designer, taking home $5,000 and six months of free Canal Box internet.
Performances by Juno Kizigenza, Butera Knowless, Massamba Intore, Nigerian singer Chella, and Sherrie Silver herself, joined by children from her foundation, kept the energy high until late in the night.
The Silver Gala once again proved why it’s becoming one of Kigali’s most anticipated annual events, a celebration of creativity, talent, and style with a purpose.
“It is already very rare to see an independent film, and even rarer to see an independent African one. So, we wanted to expose them to that,” explains Scott Hillier, founder of the festival and partner of the French Institute.
The students, from Green Hills Academy and the École Française Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, participated in a contest aimed at developing their critical thinking.
“They had to judge a film based on its performance, the emotion it evoked, its aesthetics, and its story. This engaged them a lot, and they all voted for a film to award it a prize,” Hillier adds.
The festival also allowed the young audience to discover films from other international festivals curated by Hillier, offering a global panorama of independent cinema.
“We presented African films, then films from the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe. Their reaction surprised me: they really enjoyed it and actively participated in the voting,” he says.
Among the films screened, Deja Nu from Côte d’Ivoire and The Yellow Dress from Kenya particularly impressed Hillier, whom he describes as showcasing raw, emotional, and authentic storytelling talent.
In total, 21 films are competing this year, across 14 categories, ranging from feature films to documentaries, student films, and experimental works. The festival also offers the Rwandan Film Students Special Award, allowing Rwandan students to screen their films on a big screen in front of an audience outside their school.
Hillier emphasises the importance of promoting authentic stories. “Seeing the amazed faces of young viewers reinforces this choice. We want to tell impactful stories that spark conversations, even if opinions are divided,” he says.
The inaugural screening was initiated by the director of the French Institute in Rwanda, Ms. Lee Fou Messica, and organised in collaboration with Aimée Umutoni Kabuguza, who convinced Scott Hillier to hold the first edition of the AAIFF in Rwanda rather than in Cape Town.
In this school screening, the students’ votes awarded Beyond The Ring, a South African documentary directed by Mari Geldenhuys and Malcolm Rainers, as the winner of their competition. Meanwhile, the main festival will officially kick off on Friday and run through Sunday, with the grand prize to be awarded during Sunday’s closing ceremony.
Among the young Rwandan talents present, Méthode Muhire, a film student at East African University Rwanda (EAUR), shared his journey: “At first, I knew nothing about cinema. After a brief course in video production and some experience in photography and videography, I decided to develop my skills at university. Today, I have made two short films, won two international awards, and am working on a new project called Fallout.”
For Hillier, Kigali proves to be an ideal location for the festival: “This is where it all happens. Rwandans have warmly welcomed the festival, and we hope to host even more participants this year.”
Moreover, the AAIFF is part of the Ecu Festival Group and continues to promote African independent cinema, giving a voice to a new generation of filmmakers.
The 37-year-old made the revelations on Password, a youth-focused show on Rwanda National Television that discusses personal development and success. While flipping through videos on his phone of the life he envisions, Coach Gaël revealed a range of exciting plans.
Among his goals, he wants to establish a centre supporting at least 7,000 orphans and publish several books, with one planned release by the time he turns 40.
“I want to create a media company that teaches entrepreneurship,” he said. “And yes, one day, I want to stand by my own private jet. I also hope to own a company that acquires others and maintain a healthy lifestyle through sports.”
Speaking to the youth audience, Coach Gaël stressed the importance of action alongside dreams.
“It’s good to have dreams, but you must also take steps to achieve them. In life, when you want something, you stand up and go get it,” he advised.
Asked about continuing his previous missionary work in India, he said it’s no longer his path.
“Preaching the Word of God the way I did before? Not anymore. I’ve found a new approach which is motivating young people and others to achieve their goals.”
Reflecting on his achievements in entrepreneurship so far, Coach Gaël admitted he’s not fully satisfied.
“The level I’ve reached doesn’t excite me much because there’s still a lot of work ahead. In the next two years, I hope to finish my current projects and move to the next stage.”
He attributes his success to two key traits: a love of learning and confidence. “I study constantly to keep up with the latest technology and trends. And I believe that whatever I set my mind to is possible,” he said.
With a mix of high-flying dreams and grounded advice for young people, Coach Gaël continues to inspire audiences across Rwanda with his ambition and energy.
The celebrated singer arrived in Kigali accompanied by his partner and manager, Maisha Madrugada Wirth.
The couple, who have been in a long-term relationship, are reportedly already planning their wedding, according to reliable sources. Nviiri and Maisha started dating after his split from Elodie Zone, a well-known Kenyan social media personality.
Fans in Kigali are in for a treat as Nviiri prepares to share the stage with fellow Kenyan artist Bensoul, who is expected to arrive on Saturday morning. They will be joined by top Rwandan acts, including Shemi, Kid from Kigali, and Angell Mutoni.
The singer is set to perform a lineup of his biggest hits, including Pombe Sigara, Niko Sawa featuring Bien, Nikita, Kitenge, and other fan favourites.
Before fully committing to music, Nviiri studied mechanical engineering and worked in the field, collaborating with his father, but his passion for music ultimately won out.
The party, which debuted in July, introduced a new soundscape to a scene where Afrobeats and Amapiano have long dominated the dance floor. Its focus on R&B, hip-hop, and soul struck a chord with revellers nostalgic for the genre’s golden years, while also drawing in a younger crowd that has embraced the resurgence of contemporary R&B.
This weekend’s edition will once again be hosted by MC Zuba Mutesi, with DJs Khizzbeats, DJ Karim, and others keeping the vibe alive from evening until late.
Organised by SEEV Africa in collaboration with Intore Entertainment, Spin the Block positions itself within Kigali’s nightlife as one of the few locally-owned concepts dedicated to R&B and Old Skool music. It aims to build a space where audiences of different generations — from fans of the new R&B wave to those raised on the sounds of the 1990s and 2000s — can converge.
For the organisers, Spin the Block represents both cultural pride and creative ownership. “This is about building something rooted in Rwanda, with local DJs, hosts, and a long-term vision,” SEEV Africa founder Paul Atwine said during the first edition.
For Kigali, Spin the Block signals both a celebration of nostalgia and a shift toward more diverse nightlife offerings.
The next edition of Spin the Block is scheduled for December 6th in Kigali, with the final event of the year set to take place in Accra, with the date to be announced soon.
Scheduled for 22–29 November 2025 in Kigali, the festival is also expanding beyond the capital, with activities lined up in different provinces. More than 160 nominees are in the running across 23 categories, selected through the Iziwacu Cinema programme.
Festival CEO and founder Trésor Senga said the changes were designed to push the event to new heights and give more value to the individuals behind Rwanda’s fast-growing film industry.
Alongside the new car prizes for the People’s Choice categories, the festival has introduced a slot for film technicians, shining a spotlight on often-overlooked creatives. Winners in most categories will be picked by a jury, but fans will have their say through online voting, which opens on Monday, September 15. Voters will even get 20% of their money back for each vote cast.
Among the actors vying for Best Actor (People’s Choice) are familiar names such as Mugisha Emmanuel, a.k.a. Kibonge (Deceiver), Benimana Ramadhan, better known as Bamenya (Bamenya Series), and Niyitegeka Gratien, popularly known as Papa Sava. On the actresses’ side, contenders include Mumararungu Joyeuse (Micky in Igihome), Dusenge Clenia (Madedeli in Papa Sava), and Irakoze Ariane Vanessa, who fans know as Kate/Maya in Hurts Harder.
The week-long event will also feature Mashariki Market, a three-day industry forum expected to draw more than 500 film representatives from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and across Africa. For local creatives, it’s a chance to plug into international networks through platforms like Mashariki Residence and Mashariki Academy.
But the festival isn’t just about red carpets and awards. This year, film stars will tour five districts across Rwanda to connect with audiences, showcase their work, and take part in community service.
With bigger prizes, fresh categories, and wider reach, Mashariki African Film Festival 2025 promises to be its most exciting edition yet.
