Category: Entertainment

Scheduled for August 31, 2025, ‘Dog Fest Kigali’ will take place at KICS Playground in Gacuriro, offering a unique platform to showcase dogs’ abilities, training, and companionship.

The festival is designed not only as a social gathering for pet enthusiasts but also as a space to promote animal welfare and responsible dog ownership.

The initiative is the brainchild of Dog Haus, a Kigali-based dog care service founded by Eric Gahamanyi, who says the festival is aimed at strengthening the bond between people and their dogs while building a community around shared values of compassion and care for animals.

“We wanted to launch this festival so people can learn how to become better companions to their dogs. Dog Fest is a moment of celebration, learning, and community,” Gahamanyi told IGIHE.

Dog Fest Kigali will feature a range of activities, including a Best Dressed Dogs contest, agility and obedience showcases, and behavioural demonstrations that highlight the intelligence and training of participating dogs.

Beyond entertainment, the event will also feature interactive sessions with veterinarians, trainers, and pet product vendors, offering expert advice on animal health, behaviour, and nutrition.

Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of music, food, drinks, and curated stalls with everything from pet accessories to gourmet dog treats.

The festival also aims to spotlight professionals working in the animal care industry and to encourage more people to consider dogs not merely as animals, but as companions and integral parts of everyday life.

More than just an event, Dog Fest Kigali is being positioned as a step forward in cultivating a culture of empathy, responsibility, and respect for animals in Rwanda.

Billed as an old school and R&B night aimed at a more mature crowd, the event is positioning itself as the city’s first locally-owned concept of its kind.

Hosted by MC Zuba Mutesi and featuring DJs Ssese and K’Ru, the party promises a soundscape of classic hip-hop and R&B, catering to revellers who came of age during the golden eras of the ‘90s and 2000s.

According to the organisers, what sets Spin the Block Africa apart is not just its musical offering, but its homegrown roots.

In a scene where similar events are largely foreign-run, organisers SEEV Africa and Intore Entertainment say they’re carving out space for local creatives and supporting the local economy.

“Spin the Block Africa is about building something rooted in Rwanda, with local DJs, hosts, and a long-term vision,” Paul Atwine, founder of SEEV Africa, told IGIHE.

Events like Strictly Soul, Rhythm and Brunch, Old Skool Brunch, and Reminisce have drawn sizeable followings in Kigali in recent years. Atwine says Spin the Block Africa is a homegrown alternative.

The plan, he added, is to host Spin the Block Africa at least four times a year, with potential to expand across the continent.

The organisers are betting on nostalgia and a sense of local pride to draw the grown and groovy crowd in.

Whether performing live, crafting verses in the studio, or connecting with fans online, he embodies a new generation of Rwandan artists determined to push creative boundaries.

In a recent appearance on IGIHE Kulture’s vibrant entertainment series Hooks & Jabz, The Dice Kid opened up about his journey as an artist, his growth, and the values that guide his music. Candid and grounded, he reflected on how it all began at the age of 16.

For him, music has never been just a career; it’s a calling.

“I want to lay a foundation for future artists in Rwanda’s fresh music industry,” he shared.

His name, like the many sides of a dice, reflects his diverse interests in music, fashion, film, and storytelling, all of which come together to form his artistic identity.

The Dice Kid’s latest body of work, Infinity Pack, created in collaboration with Eers, dives deep into themes of peace, love, patience, and kindness, virtues he says are essential in navigating life’s never-ending journey.

One of the standout tracks, “Luckily Unlucky,” has resonated strongly with fans. It’s an honest reflection on navigating hardship and remaining grounded in the face of adversity.

“It’s about the journey, the highs and lows,” he explained, capturing the emotional core of the song.

Another hard-hitting track, “Salty Rappers,” addresses hypocrisy, jealousy, and industry toxicity. With sharp lyricism and spiritual insight, he confronts fake alliances, chasing fame, and the loneliness that can come with success.

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When it comes to making music, The Dice Kid is all about energy. He prefers a minimal, mood-driven studio setup of LED lights, solitude, and just the beat to guide him.

“Crowded studios kill the vibe,” he noted, favouring a focused, organic creation space.

Working closely with elite local producers like Khabib, Juny Quickly, and Kuba, he builds most of his tracks from scratch, blending traditional hip-hop sounds with soulful, afro-fusion, and alternative influences.

He also shared the albums that shaped his sound: Good Kid, M.A.A.D City by Kendrick Lamar, Bad Hair by Nasty C, 4 Your Eyez Only by J. Cole, and Graduation by Kanye West. With confidence, he added Infinity Pack to the list, believing it will leave its mark on Rwanda’s musical history.

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Off-stage, The Dice Kid embraces life in Kigali, his city, his muse. A fan of genuine conversations and hangouts with close friends, he highlighted his favourite chill spots like Three Chaps, Buns, and Gate 10, where creative energy and good vibes flow freely.

In the interview, he spoke with humility and clarity about success, growth, and consistency. He encourages emerging artists to stay grounded, ignore noise, and value even the smallest wins.

“Appreciate every single win. Consistency makes you a master,” he shared. “Celebrate getting 400 monthly listeners the same way you’d celebrate 40,000.”

He believes his philosophy, rooted in self-awareness and spiritual growth, sets him apart in a music industry often driven by trends and instant fame.

Watch the full interview below:

Hosted by the ever-charismatic MC Tino, the night opened in style as DJ RY hit the decks around 8:00 PM, warming up the crowd with a rich blend of classic American hip-hop, old-school Rwandan tracks, and pan-African favourites. The nostalgia was palpable, and the dancefloor filled up quickly as the beats echoed through the retro-themed venue.

The lineup kept the energy high all night. Brek The Entertainer took over with a vibrant Rhumba set, spinning hits from icons like Madilu System, before handing over to DJ Nicolas Peks, who turned up the tempo with crowd-pleasing Reggaeton, Bongo Flava, and chart-toppers from across East Africa.

In a crowd full of sequins, bell-bottoms, and bold vintage looks, comedian Clapton Kibonge and Delphine Umuhoza (wife of media personality Benjamin Gicumbi) stole the spotlight. They were crowned Best Dressed of the night, each walking away with special experience gifts from Kigali Universe.

Clapton wowed the audience with a full-on 1970s African musician look—complete with flared bell-bottom trousers, platform shoes, a vintage cassette player, and a classic radio, channelling the spirit of a bygone era with striking authenticity.

Delphine, on the other hand, embodied old-school American hip-hop glam with oversized pants, bold jewellery, and attitude to match.

The crowd was a vibrant mix of familiar faces and fashionistas, including Fuadi Uwihanganye, DJ Pius, Coach Gael (architect of Kigali Universe), Kenny Mugarura of 1:55 AM, Michelle Iradukunda, and Aissa Cyiza, all contributing to the night’s electric atmosphere.

As the festival drew to a close, DJ RY and DJ Nicolas Peks joined forces in a unique tag-team set, each alternating tracks to keep the party going late into the night, an unforgettable moment that perfectly encapsulated the festival’s spirit of musical unity across generations.

This year’s edition followed the success of the 2024 event held at Juru Park in Rebero, and if last night is any indication, the Oldies Music Festival has solidified its place as a must-attend celebration on Kigali’s cultural calendar.

The couple shared the joyful news on their social media platforms with a stunning maternity photoshoot, where Priscilla is seen radiating in an elegant gown, her growing baby bump proudly on display. One intimate shot shows Jux gently kissing her belly, a moment that melted fans’ hearts across the continent.

The announcement quickly went viral, with a wave of congratulatory messages pouring in from fellow celebrities including Diamond Platnumz, Alliah Cool, and Peter Okoye (Mr. P) of P-Square.

Juma Jux and Priscilla, who is the daughter of Nollywood star Iyabo Ojo, captured public attention with their whirlwind romance. The two first sparked dating rumours after a joint appearance during a project in Kigali and their relationship soon blossomed into one of the most talked-about love stories in African entertainment.

Their union was sealed in grand style with a traditional Yoruba ceremony in Lagos, followed by an opulent white wedding and Nikkah in Dar es Salaam in May 2025, drawing admiration from fans across East and West Africa.

Before finding love with Priscilla, Juma Jux was previously linked to socialite Karen Bujulu and pop star Vanessa Mdee, who is now married to American singer Rotimi. Vanessa and Rotimi are parents to two children, Seven and Imani.

As Jux and Priscilla prepare to welcome their bundle of joy, fans and followers continue to celebrate the couple’s journey with heartfelt wishes and anticipation for the next chapter.

The grand festival took place on the night of Sunday, July 20, 2025, and was officially opened by President Denis Sassou N’Guesso of Congo Brazzaville.

This 12th edition, which also marks the 30th anniversary of FESPAM, was held under the theme: “Music and Its Role in Africa’s Economy in the Digital Age.”

Boukuru’s performance was graced by high-profile guests including Marie-France Lydie Hélène Pongault, Congo’s Minister of Culture; Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Republic of Congo, Amb. Parfait Busabizwa; members of the Rwandan community living in Brazzaville; and hundreds of Congolese music enthusiasts.

As she stepped onto the stage, Boukuru greeted the crowd and proudly declared, “I am a Rwandan artist and I’m here to share with you the essence of Rwandan creativity.”

Speaking after her performance, Boukuru expressed how meaningful it was to be on such a prestigious platform.

“Representing Rwanda is a great honor,” she said. “Being in Brazzaville is important for my artistic journey because it allows me to connect with fellow creatives, learn from others, and grow my own expression.”

Beyond her opening-night performance, Boukuru is set to showcase her art at multiple festival venues across different neighborhoods in Brazzaville as part of the ongoing FESPAM schedule.

The opening night attracted over 8,000 attendees and set the tone for a vibrant celebration of African music.

In addition to live performances, the festival includes panel discussions on African music, a heritage exhibition of iconic instruments, and free concerts in venues like Mayanga, Kintélé, and more. The event will also feature the screening of a documentary film about Congolese Rumba, one of Africa’s most celebrated musical genres.

Alongside Boukuru, artists from various countries are expected to perform throughout the festival. FESPAM is organized in partnership with the Government of Congo Brazzaville, the African Union, and UNESCO.

Kigali Streetball is a dynamic basketball festival that blends basketball games with dance performances, rap music, and other entertainment.

Participants will compete in various activities including singing, basketball matches played in diverse styles, and dancing.

Speaking to members of the press on Thursday, July 17, 2025, alongside supporting artists such as Bulldogg, Trizzie Ninety Six, B-Threy, and Angell Mutoni, MC Murenzi highlighted several new elements attendees can look forward to.

“This time, Kigali Streetball will be a renewed event featuring various fresh elements. We decided to keep it at Petit Stade because it’s a familiar place where the event was traditionally held and well-known. Hosting it elsewhere would be expensive, requiring the construction of a stage and other infrastructure,” he said.

MC Murenzi also noted that talented participants from neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and even Canada will join the event. Although they invited women’s basketball teams to participate, only one team registered, which posed some challenges.
“We encouraged individual female players to register,” he added.

The competition will reward the winning team with Frw 800,000, while individual players will receive Frw 200,000 each. MC Murenzi confirmed that since presenting the event concept to the Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA), it has been warmly received and supported.

Eight teams will compete in a knockout format, with matches played to 21 points.

MC Murenzi further revealed a new collaborative song featuring artists including Bushali and P-Fla, which will premiere during the event. The track will spotlight rappers competing in the contest, with plans to update the song annually to feature new standout artists.

The revived Kigali Streetball is scheduled for July 19–20, 2025, with performances by artists such as Bull Dogg, B Threy, Bushali, Angell Mutoni, and others.

Tickets will cost between 5,000 and 15,000 Rwandan Francs, with discounts for advance purchases. Interested attendees can purchase tickets online.

Originally launched in 2006, Kigali Streetball had been dormant since 2007 when it was last organized by Contact FM on the initiative of Albert Rudatsimburwa.

MC Murenzi recently disclosed that preparations for this year’s event have already cost over Frw 40 million.

In a detailed social media post, Nyong’o revealed that she underwent surgery to remove 30 fibroids, describing the experience as both physically and emotionally challenging. Despite the procedure, doctors informed her that there was little she could do to prevent the fibroids from returning.

“When we reach puberty, we are taught that periods mean pain, and that pain is simply a part of being a woman,” Nyong’o wrote. “We must reject the normalisation of female pain.”

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that grow in or around the uterus. While non-cancerous, they can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anaemia, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and complications during pregnancy.

The condition affects an estimated 70% of white women and up to 90% of Black women by the age of 50, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Nyong’o’s announcement sheds light on what she describes as a widespread but underdiscussed health issue.

“We are struggling alone with something that affects most of us,” she stated, urging more open conversations and better access to care.

The Kenyan-Mexican actress, best known for her Oscar-winning performance in 12 Years a Slave, is now leveraging her public platform to advocate for policy change. She recently joined U.S. lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to support a package of congressional bills aimed at expanding research, improving early diagnosis, and funding less invasive treatment options for uterine fibroids.

In addition to legislative efforts, Nyong’o announced plans to launch a Uterine Fibroid Research Grant to help develop innovative treatments and improve the quality of life for the estimated 15 million women living with the condition in the U.S.

Her advocacy aligns with a growing movement to address racial disparities in women’s healthcare. Studies have shown that Black women not only develop fibroids at younger ages but often suffer more severe symptoms and face longer delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Nyong’o said it wasn’t until she began sharing her experience privately that she realised how widespread the issue was.

“No more suffering in silence,” she declared.

In a fiery Instagram Live session, Naomie dismissed the chatter, saying she’s happily married and that no one entrusted her husband to the public.

The backlash comes after some social media users shared photos of Tesfay boarding a public bus, sparking online claims that the beauty queen had married a man of modest means.

Naomie, however, wasn’t having any of it.

“Where do you expect him to go? Just leave him alone,” she said during the live broadcast. “And whenever you see him, keep your mouth shut. I’ll even help you out by buying something called ‘Super Glue’—so next time you see him at night, just stay silent. As for me, say whatever you want. I heard some of you saying he’s poor!”

She went on to question the logic behind the criticism, pointing out that her husband has never appeared on social media asking for help.

“Have you ever seen him come online to beg? Have I ever said something’s wrong with him? No. So please, leave him alone. When I posted him, did I ever say ‘take him’? He’s mine. This is the face of a happy woman, not someone who’s struggling.”

Naomie and Michael tied the knot on December 29 2024, and since then, she hasn’t hesitated to show her followers just how content she is with her choice.

“God gave me the man I prayed for,” she’s said repeatedly, making it clear that love, not public opinion, is what defines their union.

Known for his hilarious impersonations of President Museveni and his trademark blend of classroom wit and political satire, Mpamire has built a career that straddles both teaching and comedy.

Like in many parts of the region, his content has been warmly received by Rwandan audiences, as he continues to grace various stages and expand his performances beyond home.

On Thursday, July 10, he makes a return to the Gen Z Stand-Up Comedy show, a year after his last performance in Kigali.

In an exclusive interview with IGIHE upon landing in the capital, the 42-year-old comedian expressed excitement about his return, describing Rwanda as his second home.

“I’m so glad to be back in Rwanda. Rwanda is my second home, apart from Uganda. I’m glad to be here once again and happy to be hosted at Gen Z Comedy,” he said.

Gen Z Comedy has quickly become a staple on Kigali’s entertainment calendar, known for its vibrant mix of emerging and seasoned comedic talent. This year’s show carries a special theme, ‘Kwibohora31,’ commemorating Rwanda’s 31st Liberation Anniversary.

Reflecting on his connection with local fans, Teacher Mpamire praised Rwandan audiences for their purposeful support of comedy.

“Rwandan audiences purposely come for comedy. They’re ready, welcoming, and they support local comedians first, which makes it easier for international acts like me,” he said.

Mpamire will join local comedians, including Umushumba, Pirate, Rumi, Kadudu, Joseph, and Dudu for a night promising laughter and high-energy performances.

Speaking further in his interview, he reflected on the significance of performing during Rwanda’s Liberation period.

“It’s a nice initiative to perform during this time. As a teacher of nationalism, I know the importance of remembering a country’s past and celebrating progress. Rwanda has achieved so much — from the cleanliness of Kigali to the discipline of its citizens. I’m always impressed,” he added.

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Mpamire’s comedic style is a unique fusion of humour and education, deeply rooted in his role as a teacher at Standard High School Zzana in Uganda.

While he occasionally uses humour to engage students, he draws a clear line between comedy and teaching.

“I follow the teachers’ code of conduct. When I’m in class, it’s class time. But today’s students prefer teachers with a sense of humor, so I drop in small jokes related to the lesson — it helps them understand better. But I always know my limit,” he shared.

His journey into comedy began after watching Zambian comedian Ben Phiri, who performed in Uganda as a presidential impersonator.

“I was inspired seeing Ben Phiri act as President Museveni and Nelson Mandela. That’s how I developed my own version of acting as the president of Uganda,” he recalled.

But Mpamire’s craft evolved significantly after studying at the American Comedy Institute in New York, where he learned the art of writing, researching, and performing structured comedy.

“Before America, I only performed as the president. But my teacher, Steve Rosenfield, taught me to anchor my comedy in what I know best — teaching. That’s how I became Teacher Mpamire. Now, when people watch me, they can tell I’ve done my homework,” he said.

Mpamire encourages young comedians to be genuine, creative, and open to growth, especially in the face of criticism.

“If you want comedy as a career, you have to rehearse, research, and be original. Everything in life can be comedy — you just have to look for it. And remember, nothing is completely new in this world. What matters is how you make it your own,” he advised.

Watch the full interview below: